Crockpot Tortellini Soup: Creamy, Flavorful, and Comforting
When I first made this Crockpot Tortellini Soup, I was blown away by how effortlessly it came together. The creamy broth, tender tortellini, and fresh spinach created a dish that felt like a warm hug in a bowl.
It’s now one of my go-to recipes for cozy dinners, especially on chilly evenings. You can also enjoy similar hearty recipes like this Chicken Burrito Bowl for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients: What You’ll Need for This Recipe
This soup is packed with simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 500g Italian-style chicken sausage or ground turkey, browned (optional)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 3 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 500g refrigerated cheese tortellini
Optional toppings: grated Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes, or chopped parsley.
Note: This recipe serves 6 hearty portions, making it perfect for family dinners or meal prep.
Variations: Customize Your Soup
This Crockpot Tortellini Soup is incredibly versatile. Here are some ways to make it your own:
- Dairy-Free Option: Swap the heavy cream for coconut milk or a dairy-free alternative.
- Vegetarian: Skip the sausage and use vegetable broth for a meat-free version.
- Extra Veggies: Add zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers for more texture and flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Stir in red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
For more dinner inspiration, check out these dinner recipes that are just as comforting and satisfying.
Cooking Time: How Long Does It Take?
This recipe is perfect for busy days when you want a hands-off meal. Here’s the breakdown:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 5–6 hours on LOW or 2–3 hours on HIGH
- Total Time: 5–6 hours
Equipment You’ll Need
Having the right tools makes this recipe a breeze. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Crockpot: For slow cooking the soup to perfection.
- Skillet: To brown the sausage or turkey (if using).
- Cutting board and knife: For chopping the onion, garlic, and spinach.
- Ladle: For serving the soup.
How to Make Crockpot Tortellini Soup
Making this soup is as easy as it is delicious. Follow these simple steps for a perfect result every time.
Step 1: Brown the Sausage (Optional)
If you’re using sausage or ground turkey, start by browning it in a skillet with a drizzle of olive oil. This step adds depth and flavor to the soup. Once browned, drain any excess grease and set it aside.
Step 2: Add Ingredients to the Crockpot
In your Crockpot, combine the browned sausage (if using), diced onion, garlic, diced tomatoes, chicken or vegetable broth, dried basil, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together to ensure the flavors are evenly distributed.
Step 3: Cook the Soup
Cover the Crockpot and cook on LOW for 5–6 hours or on HIGH for 2–3 hours. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 4: Add Spinach, Cream, and Tortellini
About 20–30 minutes before serving, stir in the fresh spinach, heavy cream, and tortellini. Cover and cook until the tortellini is tender and the spinach is wilted.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with grated Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes, or chopped parsley for extra flavor. Pair it with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better
From my experience, here are some tips to elevate your Crockpot Tortellini Soup:
- Use fresh spinach for the best texture and flavor.
- Don’t skip browning the sausage—it adds a rich, savory depth.
- Grate your Parmesan cheese fresh for a creamier, more flavorful topping.
- Add a splash of white wine to the broth for extra complexity.
How to Serve Crockpot Tortellini Soup
Presentation matters! Serve this soup in deep bowls to showcase the creamy broth and vibrant spinach. Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan for a restaurant-quality look. Pair it with a side of Mediterranean Baked Fish for a balanced and satisfying dinner.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick breakdown of the nutritional content per serving:
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 20g
How to Store Crockpot Tortellini Soup
If you have leftovers, here’s how to store them:
- Refrigerating: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Crockpot Tortellini Soup is a must-try for so many reasons:
- Easy to Make: Just toss everything in the Crockpot and let it do the work.
- Versatile: Easily customizable to suit your dietary preferences.
- Comforting: Perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a cozy meal.
- Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike.
- Meal Prep-Friendly: Makes enough for leftovers or freezing.
FAQs
Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes, but you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure it cooks through.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the soup up to the point of adding the tortellini and spinach. Store it in the fridge, then finish cooking when ready to serve.
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, coconut milk, or a dairy-free alternative.
Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely! Zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers would be great additions.
