Description
This Crockpot Creamy Tortellini recipe combines savory Italian sausage, tender cheese tortellini, and fresh spinach in a rich, creamy tomato sauce. Perfectly seasoned with garlic, onion, and Italian herbs, this comforting slow-cooker meal is easy to prepare and perfect for a hearty family dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy), crumbled
Pasta
- 1 (19 oz) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
Vegetables
- 3 cups fresh spinach
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
Canned Goods
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
Liquids
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
Herbs and Spices
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the sausage: Crumble the Italian sausage into a skillet and cook over medium heat until browned and cooked through. This helps render the fat and adds flavor to the dish.
- Add aromatics: Stir in the diced onion and minced garlic with the sausage, cooking until the onion softens and the garlic is fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. This builds a flavorful base.
- Combine ingredients in Crockpot: Transfer the sausage mixture into the Crockpot. Add the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well mixed.
- Slow cook: Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to develop a rich taste.
- Add tortellini and spinach: About 20-30 minutes before serving, gently stir in the refrigerated cheese tortellini and fresh spinach. Cover again and cook until the tortellini is tender and the spinach has wilted.
- Add cream and cheese: Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese (if using) to create a creamy consistency. Allow to warm through for a few minutes.
- Adjust seasoning and serve: Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
- You can use mild or spicy Italian sausage depending on your preferred heat level.
- Refrigerated tortellini cooks quickly in the Crockpot; adding it too early can make it mushy.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
