Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage

This Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage is the perfect dish for any occasion. It’s a comforting and easy-to-prepare slow cooker soup filled with rich flavors and hearty ingredients. Packed with Italian sausage, tomatoes, cheese tortellini, a splash of cream, and fresh spinach, this soup will warm you up on chilly days and impress your guests at gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: Simply toss all the ingredients into your Crockpot and let it do the work for you.
• Flavorful Comfort: The combination of Italian sausage and fresh vegetables creates a deliciously rich flavor profile.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this soup can be adapted to suit various tastes.
• Hearty Ingredients: Packed with protein and veggies, it’s satisfying enough to be a meal on its own.
• Leftover Friendly: The flavors deepen over time, making leftovers even more enjoyable.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need for this recipe:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow Cooker
• Skillet
• Chopping Board
• Knife
• Measuring Cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow Cooker: Allows for hands-off cooking, letting flavors meld beautifully over time.
• Skillet: Perfect for browning sausage before adding it to the slow cooker, enhancing flavor.
• Chopping Board & Knife: Essential for prepping vegetables quickly and efficiently.

Ingredients

To make this delicious Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage, gather the following ingredients:

Meat & Vegetables

• 16 ounces Italian sausage (see note)
• 1/2 medium onion (chopped)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 medium carrots (sliced or chopped)
• 2 sticks celery (chopped finely)

Canned Goods & Broth

• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (14 ounce) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
• 4 cups chicken broth

Pasta & Greens

• 2 (9 ounce) packages refrigerated cheese tortellini
• 2 cups (packed) fresh baby spinach

Cream & Seasoning

• 3/4 cup heavy/whipping cream (optional)
• Salt & pepper (to taste)

How to Make Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

Add the sausage meat and onions to a skillet. Sauté for about 7-8 minutes until browned, breaking up the sausage meat with your spoon as it cooks. If needed, spoon out some of the excess fat.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Crockpot

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds. Transfer the sausage mixture to your Crockpot.

Step 3: Add Vegetables and Broth

Add the chopped carrots, celery, canned tomatoes, and chicken broth to the Crockpot. For quicker cooking in 3-4 hours, chop the carrots finely. If you’ll be cooking longer, larger pieces work well.

Step 4: Incorporate Final Ingredients

About 30 minutes prior to serving, add in your cheese tortellini, cream (if using), and spinach. Turn the heat to high and give it a stir occasionally. Before serving, season with salt and pepper as needed.

Enjoy your flavorful Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage!

How to Serve Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage

Crockpot tortellini soup with sausage is a delightful dish that warms the heart and soul. It can be served in various ways to enhance its flavors and presentation.

With Fresh Herbs

• Basil – Add a sprinkle of fresh basil just before serving for an aromatic touch.
• Parsley – Chopped parsley can add a pop of color and freshness.

With Bread

• Garlic Bread – Serve alongside crispy garlic bread for dipping into the rich broth.
• Crusty Baguette – A warm slice of baguette complements the soup beautifully.

With Cheese

• Parmesan Cheese – Grate fresh Parmesan on top for added richness and flavor.
• Mozzarella – Melted mozzarella can be added for a creamy texture.

With Salad

• Caesar Salad – A light Caesar salad pairs well, balancing the hearty soup.
• Mixed Greens – A simple salad with mixed greens and vinaigrette can refresh your palate.

How to Perfect Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage

Perfecting your crockpot tortellini soup can elevate your cooking game. Here are some tips to ensure it turns out delicious every time.

• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance flavor and nutrition.
• Adjust cook time based on ingredients – Fine chopping carrots allows for quicker cooking; larger pieces require longer cooking times.
• Experiment with spices – Adding Italian seasoning or red pepper flakes can bring more depth to the soup.
• Add cream at the right time – Incorporating cream closer to serving ensures it doesn’t curdle during long cooking times.
• Taste before serving – Always taste before you serve, adjusting salt and pepper as needed for the perfect seasoning.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage

Pairing side dishes with your crockpot tortellini soup enhances the meal experience. Here are some great options.

1. Garlic Knots – Soft, buttery garlic knots are perfect for soaking up every bit of soup.
2. Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a refreshing contrast.
3. Antipasto Platter – An assortment of olives, cheeses, and cured meats offers varied flavors.
4. Roasted Vegetables – Seasoned roasted veggies add color and nutrition to your meal.
5. Cheesy Breadsticks – Warm, cheesy breadsticks make a delightful accompaniment.
6. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad provides protein and fiber without overpowering the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making this Crockpot tortellini soup with sausage, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:

• Overcooking the Vegetables: If you chop the carrots too large and cook on high for a shorter time, they may remain crunchy. Cut them smaller for quicker cooking.
• Skipping the Sautéing Step: Neglecting to brown the sausage and onions first can lead to less flavor in your soup. Always sauté these ingredients to enhance the taste.
• Not Adjusting Seasoning: Failing to taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving can result in bland soup. Be sure to season to your liking just before serving.
• Adding Tortellini Too Early: If you add tortellini at the start, they may become mushy. Add them 30 minutes before serving for the best texture.
• Using Low-Quality Broth: A poor-quality broth can dull the flavor of your soup. Opt for a good-quality chicken broth for rich taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.

Freezing Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered in an oven-safe dish until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring frequently until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Crockpot tortellini soup with sausage:

Can I use different proteins in my Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage?

You can substitute chicken, beef, or turkey sausage based on your preference. Each will bring a unique flavor.

How do I store leftover Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

What type of tortellini should I use?

Refrigerated cheese tortellini works best for this recipe as it cooks quickly and holds its shape well.

How can I customize my Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage?

Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. You can also adjust spices or use different broths for varied flavors.

Final Thoughts

This Crockpot tortellini soup with sausage is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding different vegetables or proteins according to your taste preferences. Give it a try; it’s perfect for any day of the week!