If you are craving a warm, comforting bowl of soup that feels like a hug in a bowl, you absolutely have to try this Easy Crockpot Sausage & Tortellini Soup Recipe. It combines savory Italian sausage, tender cheese tortellini, and vibrant vegetables in a flavorful broth that simmers to perfection in your slow cooker. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a busy day when you want dinner ready with little fuss, this soup delivers satisfying taste and cozy vibes without the stress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this recipe is a breeze, and each one plays a crucial role in creating a soup that’s rich, colorful, and bursting with flavor. From the hearty sausage to the fresh spinach, every component enhances the texture and depth of the final dish.
- 1 lb Italian sausage: Opt for sweet or hot depending on your spice preference; browning it first unlocks amazing flavor.
- 1 onion, chopped: Adds a mild sweetness and depth to the broth.
- 3 cups chicken broth: The savory base that brings everything together.
- 1 can diced tomatoes: Introduces a subtle tang and lovely color to the soup.
- 1 cup spinach: Fresh greens that boost color and nutrition without overpowering.
- 10 oz cheese tortellini: The star pasta that’s soft, cheesy, and utterly delicious.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to balance and enhance flavors.
How to Make Easy Crockpot Sausage & Tortellini Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start by browning the Italian sausage in a skillet over medium heat. This step is key because it develops rich, caramelized flavors that will infuse your soup. Once browned, drain any excess fat and transfer the sausage to your crockpot.
Step 2: Add Onion, Tomatoes, and Broth
Next, toss in the chopped onion, canned diced tomatoes with their juice, and chicken broth into the crockpot. These ingredients form the hearty base of your soup, blending savory and slightly sweet notes that balance the sausage’s richness perfectly.
Step 3: Slow Cook the Soup
Set your crockpot to low and let the soup cook gently for 6 hours, or switch to high and cook for 3 hours if you’re short on time. This slow simmer allows all the flavors to meld beautifully, transforming simple ingredients into a deeply comforting meal.
Step 4: Stir in Spinach and Tortellini
When the soup is almost ready, add the fresh spinach and cheese tortellini. Stir gently and cook for an additional 10 to 15 minutes on low, just long enough to wilt the spinach and cook the tender tortellini to perfection without overcooking.
How to Serve Easy Crockpot Sausage & Tortellini Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes can take your soup from great to unforgettable. Try sprinkling some shredded Parmesan cheese on top for an extra savory punch, or add a few torn basil leaves to introduce a fragrant herbal note. A dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of chili oil can also add wonderful creaminess or heat.
Side Dishes
Because this soup is hearty, pairing it with lighter sides works best. Simple garlic bread or a crusty baguette are perfect for sopping up every last bit of broth. A crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the soup’s richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this soup in mini bread bowls or rustic ramekins for a cozy presentation. You can also turn it into a buffet-style meal by offering various toppings and sides, letting everyone customize their own bowl. A sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or a side of roasted vegetables can add exciting textures and flavors too.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover soup stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen after a day, making your leftovers even more delicious. Give it a good stir before reheating to redistribute the ingredients evenly.
Freezing
This Easy Crockpot Sausage & Tortellini Soup Recipe freezes well, although for best texture, consider freezing it before adding the tortellini. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and add fresh tortellini during reheating.
Reheating
Reheat your soup gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Adding a splash of broth or water will help maintain the perfect consistency. Cook until warmed through and the tortellini is tender. Avoid overheating to keep the cheese filling from becoming rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use turkey sausage instead of Italian sausage?
Absolutely! Turkey sausage can be a leaner alternative and will still offer plenty of flavor. Just brown it the same way you would pork sausage to bring out its best taste.
Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute the sausage with plant-based sausage or hearty mushrooms. Be sure to use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a fully vegetarian version.
Can I prepare this soup without a slow cooker?
Yes, you can simmer all the ingredients in a large pot on the stove over low heat for about an hour. Add the spinach and tortellini in the last 10-15 minutes as you would in the crockpot version.
How spicy is the soup?
The spice level depends largely on the sausage you use. Hot Italian sausage will add a nice kick, while mild sausage keeps it gentle. You can also adjust by adding red pepper flakes if you like it extra spicy.
Why should I add spinach at the end?
Adding spinach at the end helps it retain its vibrant color and fresh texture. Cooking it too long can make it mushy and dull, so tossing it in just before serving keeps the soup bright and lively.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Crockpot Sausage & Tortellini Soup Recipe is a total winner when you want comfort food that’s simple, satisfying, and packed with flavors that warm you from the inside out. I genuinely hope you enjoy making and sharing this soup as much as I do—it’s one of those dishes that feels like a little celebration in every bowl! Give it a try, and get ready to love your slow cooker all over again.
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Easy Crockpot Sausage & Tortellini Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
This Easy Crockpot Sausage & Tortellini Soup is a comforting slow cooker meal featuring savory Italian sausage, tender cheese tortellini, fresh spinach, and a flavorful tomato broth. Perfect for busy days, it combines hearty ingredients into a warm, satisfying soup that’s simple to prepare and cooks gently for hours, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Ingredients
Sausage and Meat
- 1 lb Italian sausage
Vegetables and Greens
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 cup spinach
Liquids and Canned Goods
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
Pasta
- 10 oz cheese tortellini
Seasonings
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Brown the Sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage until it is browned and cooked through, breaking it into crumbles. This step enhances the flavor and removes excess fat.
- Add Ingredients to Crockpot: Transfer the browned sausage to the crockpot. Add the chopped onion, diced tomatoes (with juices), and chicken broth to the crockpot. Stir to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Cook Soup: Cover and cook the soup on low heat for 6 hours (or on high heat for 3 hours) to allow the flavors to develop and the vegetables to soften.
- Stir in Spinach and Tortellini: About 15 minutes before serving, add the fresh spinach and cheese tortellini to the crockpot. Stir well and cook for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, or until the tortellini is cooked al dente and the spinach has wilted.
- Season and Serve: Taste the soup and season with salt and black pepper as needed. Serve hot for a cozy and satisfying meal.
Notes
- Using hot Italian sausage will add a spicy kick to the soup; adjust according to your heat preference.
- For a thicker soup, you can reduce the chicken broth by half a cup.
- Fresh spinach can be substituted with kale or Swiss chard if preferred.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat well on the stovetop or microwave.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
