Slow Cooker Creamy Tortellini Soup 🍲🧀

Name: Slow Cooker Creamy Tortellini Soup – Comfort in Every Spoonful! 🍲🧀
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 240 min
Total time: 314 min
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh tortellini (cheese-filled or your favorite kind); 1 lb Italian sausage (optional, for added protein); 1 small onion (diced); 3 garlic cloves (minced); 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version); 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup fresh spinach (chopped); 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving); 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped (for garnish))

LINA

2 weeks ago

A bowl of creamy tortellini soup with tender tortellini, herbs, and a rich, smooth broth garnished with fresh parsley

A rich and creamy tortellini soup that’s slow-cooked to perfection. Filled with cheesy tortellini, tender vegetables, and a decadent broth, this is the ultimate comfort food for chilly days.

Introduction

There’s nothing quite like a warm, creamy soup to bring comfort to your day. This Slow Cooker Creamy Tortellini Soup combines cheesy tortellini, a medley of tender vegetables, and a velvety cream sauce to create a delicious, hearty meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. The best part? It’s made in a slow cooker, allowing you to set it and forget it while the flavors develop throughout the day. Whether you’re serving it to family or enjoying it on your own, this soup is guaranteed to become a new favorite!

Ingredients

2 cups fresh tortellini (cheese-filled or your favorite kind)
1 lb Italian sausage (optional, for added protein)
1 small onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparation

Step 1: Brown the Sausage (Optional)

If using Italian sausage, start by browning it in a skillet over medium heat. Break it into small pieces as it cooks, and once browned, remove it from the heat and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Slow Cooker

In the slow cooker, add the diced onions, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning. Pour in the chicken broth and stir to combine. If you’re adding sausage, add it now. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or until the onions are soft and fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Tortellini

About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the fresh tortellini and chopped spinach. Cover and cook for an additional 20-30 minutes until the tortellini is tender but not overcooked.

Step 4: Make the Soup Creamy

Once the tortellini is cooked, pour in the heavy cream and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Let the soup simmer for another 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together and the soup to thicken slightly.

Step 5: Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve warm with a side of crusty bread for dipping.

Cooking Note

If you like a thicker soup, you can add a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch to the heavy cream before stirring it into the soup. This will give the soup a creamier, more substantial consistency. For added flavor, sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the soup for a bit of heat.

Serving Suggestions

This Slow Cooker Creamy Tortellini Soup pairs wonderfully with:

A loaf of garlic bread or a fresh baguette
A side salad for a light, refreshing contrast
A glass of white wine for an elegant touch

Tips

If you prefer a vegetarian version, simply skip the sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
For a healthier twist, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, though the soup will be less rich.
Try different tortellini fillings like spinach and ricotta or meat-filled tortellini for variety.

Prep Time: 15 mins

Cook Time: 5 hrs

Total Time: 5 hrs 15 mins

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Calories: 380
Protein: 18g
Sodium: 850mg
Carbohydrates: 32g
Sugars: 3g
Fats: 22g

Storage and Leftovers

Leftover Slow Cooker Creamy Tortellini Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat until hot. Be careful not to overcook the tortellini during reheating to avoid a mushy texture. This soup can also be frozen for up to 2 months, though the cream may slightly separate upon reheating.

Conclusion

This Slow Cooker Creamy Tortellini Soup is a rich and comforting dish that will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. With its creamy broth, cheesy tortellini, and tender vegetables, this soup is perfect for a cozy night in. The ease of using a slow cooker makes it ideal for busy days when you want a hearty meal with minimal effort. Serve it with crusty bread, and you have the ultimate comforting dinner for any occasion!

FAQ

Can I use frozen tortellini?

Yes, frozen tortellini works well in this recipe. Simply add it to the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking, just as you would with fresh tortellini.

How can I make the soup spicier?

If you enjoy a little heat, add crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the soup. You can also use spicy Italian sausage for an extra kick.

Can I substitute the heavy cream with something lighter?

Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but keep in mind the soup will be less rich and creamy.