Slow Cooker Creamy Tortellini Soup

Introduction

If you’re looking for a meal that warms your soul, look no further than this Slow Cooker Creamy Tortellini Soup. Perfect for chilly evenings and family gatherings, this comforting soup combines the flavors of Italian sausage, cheese tortellini, and fresh spinach in a rich, creamy broth. The best part? It comes together effortlessly in one pot, allowing you to enjoy time with your loved ones while it cooks away in the background.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

500g Italian sausage, crumbled
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
800ml chicken broth
400g diced tomatoes (canned)
1 tsp dried basil
1 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
250ml heavy cream
300g cheese tortellini
100g baby spinach
50g grated Parmesan cheese

Prep Time

10 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 6 hours
Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
Yield: 6 servings

Now that you have everything you need, follow the simple directions to create a delicious pot of Slow Cooker Creamy Tortellini Soup that everyone will love. Enjoy!

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the crumbled Italian sausage until browned. Make sure to break it up into smaller pieces as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat and transfer the sausage to the slow cooker.

Step 2: Add the Vegetables and Broth

In the slow cooker, add the diced onion, minced garlic, chicken broth, canned diced tomatoes, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir all the ingredients together until well combined.

Step 3: Set the Slow Cooker

Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Cook the soup on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and develop.

Step 4: Incorporate Cream and Tortellini

After the cooking time is complete, stir in the heavy cream and cheese tortellini. Cover the slow cooker again and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the tortellini is tender.

Step 5: Add Spinach and Parmesan

Add the baby spinach and grated Parmesan cheese to the mixture. Stir gently until the spinach has wilted and the cheese is melted and evenly distributed.

Step 6: Serve the Soup

Once everything is combined and heated through, ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Enjoy your meal!

Notes

Storage Recommendations

Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Ingredient Variations

Feel free to substitute the Italian sausage with turkey sausage for a lighter option or omit the meat for a vegetarian version.

Additional Ingredients

You can enhance the flavor by adding other vegetables such as carrots or celery, or even including a splash of lemon juice for brightness.

Serving Suggestions

Pair the soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

Storage Instructions

Refrigeration

Store any leftover creamy tortellini soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before transferring it to the container.

Freezing

For longer storage, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. However, it’s best to freeze it before adding the heavy cream and spinach. When ready to eat, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight, reheat it on the stovetop, and stir in the heavy cream and spinach before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this creamy tortellini soup with a side of crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping. A simple mixed green salad or a Caesar salad pairs nicely to balance the richness of the soup. For added flavor, garnish each bowl with extra grated Parmesan cheese and freshly cracked black pepper.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (approximately):
– Calories: 450
– Total Fat: 30g
– Saturated Fat: 15g
– Cholesterol: 105mg
– Sodium: 900mg
– Total Carbohydrates: 30g
– Dietary Fiber: 2g
– Sugars: 4g
– Protein: 20g

Please note that these values may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Ingredient Substitutions

– Instead of Italian sausage, you can use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
– For a vegetarian version, substitute the sausage with a plant-based sausage or increase the amount of vegetables.
– Use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth for a vegetarian option.
– If heavy cream is unavailable, half-and-half or whole milk can be used, but the soup will be less creamy.
– Spinach can be replaced with kale or Swiss chard for a different green.
– For a dairy-free option, use a non-dairy cream such as coconut cream and omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

Cook techniques

Sautéing

Sauté the crumbled Italian sausage in a skillet over medium heat until browned to enhance the flavor of the soup. This step also helps to drain excess fat before adding it to the slow cooker.

Layering Ingredients

When adding ingredients to the slow cooker, layer the cooked sausage with vegetables, broth, and seasonings. This ensures even cooking and better flavor distribution.

Slow Cooking

Cook the soup on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours to allow all the flavors to meld together while the ingredients become tender.

Final Touches

Stir in the heavy cream and cheese tortellini during the last 15-20 minutes of cooking to keep them tender and maintain the creaminess of the soup.

Adding Greens

Incorporate baby spinach at the end of the cooking process to prevent overcooking and to preserve the vibrant color and nutritional value of the greens.

FAQ

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes, you can substitute the Italian sausage with a plant-based sausage or omit it altogether. Consider adding more beans or vegetables for additional texture.

Can I use fresh tortellini instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh tortellini can be used, but adjust the cooking time as they may require less time to become tender.

What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add other vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini for added flavor and nutrition.

Can I prepare this soup in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the soup in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator after cooking, and reheat it on the stovetop or slow cooker before serving.

How should I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months; just note that the cream may separate upon reheating.

Can I use low-fat milk instead of heavy cream?

Yes, you can substitute low-fat milk, but the soup will be less creamy. A combination of milk and a bit of cornstarch can help thicken it.

Conclusion

This Slow Cooker Creamy Tortellini Soup is a delightful blend of rich flavors and comforting textures that is sure to please the whole family. With minimal effort, you can achieve a hearty meal that warms both the heart and the soul. Whether served as a cozy weeknight dinner or a comforting dish for friends, this soup is bound to become a beloved staple in your recipe repertoire.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Vegetable Minestrone

Swap out the tortellini for a variety of seasonal vegetables and beans for a deliciously hearty minestrone soup that is packed with nutrients.

Chicken Alfredo Soup

Substitute Italian sausage with cooked chicken and mix in some fettuccine instead of tortellini for a creamy and rich chicken alfredo-inspired soup.

Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Use the same base ingredients to create a casserole-style dish by alternating layers of stuffed pasta shells with the creamy soup mixture.

Beef and Mushroom Stroganoff Soup

Replace the sausage with beef and add mushrooms for a comforting stroganoff twist, making sure to include egg noodles for the full experience.

Tomato Basil Soup

For a lighter option, eliminate the cream and tortellini while focusing on enhancing the tomato and basil flavors for a fresh and zesty tomato basil soup.