Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage

This Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage is a delightful and easy-to-make slow cooker dish that warms the soul. Perfect for busy weekdays or cozy weekends, this soup combines rich flavors, creamy textures, and satisfying ingredients like Italian sausage, tomatoes, and cheese tortellini. It’s an ideal comfort food for gatherings, family dinners, or a simple weeknight meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: Just toss everything in your Crockpot and let it do the work while you relax.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of sausage, tomatoes, and spices creates a comforting and savory broth.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite vegetables or switch up the proteins for a unique twist.
• Family-Friendly: This soup is sure to please both kids and adults alike with its creamy texture and delicious taste.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week or freeze for later.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment can streamline your cooking process and enhance your experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker (Crockpot)
• Large skillet
• Wooden spoon
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker (Crockpot): Allows for hands-off cooking, letting flavors meld beautifully over hours.
• Large skillet: Perfect for browning sausage and sautéing vegetables to build depth in flavor before adding them to the Crockpot.

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Ingredients

For the Soup Base

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

For the Creamy Finish

• 2 (9 ounce) packages refrigerated cheese tortellini
• 3/4 cup heavy/whipping cream (optional)
• 2 cups (packed) fresh baby spinach
• Salt & pepper (to taste)

How to Make Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

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

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Crockpot

1. Stir in the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds.
2. Transfer the sausage mixture to your Crockpot.
3. Add the carrots, celery, canned tomatoes, and chicken broth to the Crockpot.
4. Note: For a quicker cook time of 3–4 hours, chop carrots finely; larger pieces work for longer cooking times.

Step 3: Add Final Ingredients Before Serving

1. About 30 minutes prior to serving, add in your cheese tortellini, cream, and spinach.
2. Set heat to high during this time.
3. Stir occasionally and season with salt & pepper as needed before serving.

Enjoy your hearty bowl of Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage! Perfectly comforting any day of the week.

How to Serve Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage

Serving your Crockpot tortellini soup with sausage can elevate the meal experience. Pairing it with the right sides or garnishing can bring out the flavors and make it more satisfying.

Garnishing Options

• Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley adds a pop of color and freshness.
• Grated Cheese: Top each bowl with grated Parmesan or mozzarella for a creamy finish.
• Croutons: Add some crunch by serving with homemade or store-bought croutons.

Accompaniments

• Crusty Bread: Serve with slices of crusty bread, perfect for dipping into the soup.
• Salad: A light mixed greens salad provides a refreshing contrast to the rich soup.
• Breadsticks: Soft, warm breadsticks are great for scooping up tortellini and broth.

How to Perfect Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage

To ensure your Crockpot tortellini soup is as delicious as possible, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables add more flavor and nutrition than canned options.
• Adjust Cooking Times: If you prefer firmer vegetables, chop them larger and adjust cooking times accordingly.
• Experiment with Broths: Swap chicken broth for vegetable broth for a different flavor profile.
• Taste Before Serving: Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving to ensure optimal flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage

Pairing side dishes with your Crockpot tortellini soup enhances the meal. Here are some delightful options that complement the soup perfectly.

1. Garlic Bread: Crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside, garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the soup’s delicious broth.
2. Caesar Salad: A classic salad that combines crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and Caesar dressing, providing a balanced meal.
3. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a light and refreshing contrast.
4. Stuffed Mushrooms: Flavorful stuffed mushrooms can be a great finger food addition to your meal.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrition alongside your hearty soup.
6. Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad offers a satisfying texture change while being easy to prepare ahead of time.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crockpot tortellini soup with sausage, it’s easy to run into a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Ignoring the Size of Ingredients: Chopping carrots too large can lead to uneven cooking. To ensure they cook well, chop them finely if you’re cooking for a shorter time.

• Forgetting to Sauté the Sausage: Skipping the step of browning the sausage can result in less flavor. Always sauté it first to enhance the overall taste of the soup.

• Not Adjusting Seasoning: Failing to taste and adjust seasoning before serving can make your soup bland. Always season with salt and pepper just before serving for optimal flavor.

• Adding Tortellini Too Early: Putting the tortellini in too soon can cause it to become mushy. Add it about 30 minutes before serving for perfect texture.

• Using Low-Quality Broth: Poor-quality broth can diminish the flavor of your soup. Use a good quality chicken broth for a richer taste.

• Neglecting Fresh Ingredients: Not including fresh spinach or other vegetables at the end can miss out on vital nutrients and freshness. Always add fresh ingredients right before serving.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover soup in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Note that tortellini may become softer upon thawing.

Reheating Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium heat in a pot until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use different types of meat in this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute Italian sausage with turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option while still enjoying great flavor.

What should I serve with Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage?

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh salad, making it a complete meal.

How do I make this soup vegetarian?

To create a vegetarian version, use plant-based sausage alternatives and vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor.

Is it possible to make this soup dairy-free?

Yes! You can replace heavy cream with coconut milk or omit it altogether for a lighter version without dairy.

Final Thoughts

Crockpot tortellini soup with sausage is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting seasonings to match your taste. This hearty dish is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends—give it a try!