Slow Cooker Creamy Sausage & Tortellini Soup

When the cold weather sets in, there’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of Slow Cooker Creamy Sausage & Tortellini Soup to warm you up from the inside out. This delightful soup is packed with tender bites of sausage, fresh vegetables, and pillowy tortellini. Perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings, this recipe is sure to impress with its rich flavors and creamy texture. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly evening or at a festive gathering, this soup will quickly become a favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: Simply add all ingredients to your slow cooker and let it do the work while you go about your day.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of sausage and Italian seasoning creates a deliciously hearty flavor that warms the soul.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily substitute ingredients based on what you have on hand, making it flexible for different diets.
• Hearty and Filling: With plenty of protein from the sausage and carbs from the tortellini, this soup makes for a satisfying meal.
• Perfect for Leftovers: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it an excellent option for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking process smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious soup.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow Cooker
• Cutting Board
• Chef’s Knife
• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow Cooker: The star of this recipe! It allows flavors to meld beautifully while you focus on other tasks.
• Chef’s Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping veggies quick and easy, ensuring uniform pieces for even cooking.

Ingredients

Proteins

• 1 lb ground Italian sausage (browned or ground chicken/turkey/beef)

Vegetables

• 1 onion (chopped)
• 2 carrots (chopped)
• 2 celery stalks (chopped)
• 4 garlic cloves (minced)

Spices & Seasonings

• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
• 2 tsp beef or chicken bouillon
• 1/2 tsp salt

Liquids

• 4 cups broth (beef, chicken, or veggie)
• 36 oz evaporated milk or half-and-half
• 1 cup milk (plus more as needed)

Thickener & Pasta

• 1/4 cup cornstarch dissolved in 1/4 cup water
• 12 oz packet cheese tortellini (fresh or dried)

Greens

• 5 cups baby spinach

How to Make Slow Cooker Creamy Sausage & Tortellini Soup

Step 1: Add Ingredients to Slow Cooker

Add browned sausage, chopped veggies, seasonings, and broth to your slow cooker.

Step 2: Cook

Cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4 hours until the vegetables are tender.

Step 3: Skim Fat & Add Creaminess

Once cooked, skim any fat from the top. Whisk in the cornstarch slurry along with evaporated milk or half-and-half until smooth.

Step 4: Add Tortellini

Add the tortellini to the slow cooker. Cover and cook on high for an additional 45 minutes until thickened.

Step 5: Incorporate Spinach

Stir in baby spinach until wilted, which should take about 5-10 minutes.

Step 6: Adjust Consistency

Pour in 1 cup of milk, adding more if necessary to achieve your desired creamy consistency.

Step 7: Season & Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm with crusty bread to soak up that luscious broth!

With these simple steps, you’ll have a comforting bowl of Slow Cooker Creamy Sausage & Tortellini Soup ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Creamy Sausage & Tortellini Soup

Serving Slow Cooker Creamy Sausage & Tortellini Soup is as delightful as making it. This creamy concoction pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments that enhance its flavors and create a well-rounded meal.

With Crusty Bread

• A warm, crusty bread like a baguette or sourdough is perfect for dipping into the soup, soaking up all that creamy goodness.

With a Side Salad

• A light, refreshing salad offers a crisp contrast to the rich soup. Consider a simple mixed greens salad with vinaigrette dressing.

Topped with Parmesan Cheese

• Sprinkling freshly grated Parmesan on top adds a salty, nutty flavor that complements the soup’s creaminess beautifully.

With Garlic Bread

• Garlic bread provides a deliciously buttery and garlicky side that pairs well with the Italian flavors of the soup.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped fresh parsley or basil can be sprinkled on top for an extra burst of flavor and color, making the dish look as good as it tastes.

With Crackers

• Serve with crunchy crackers for added texture. Choose your favorite variety, like whole grain or herb-flavored.

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How to Perfect Slow Cooker Creamy Sausage & Tortellini Soup

To elevate your Slow Cooker Creamy Sausage & Tortellini Soup, consider these helpful tips that ensure optimal flavor and texture.

• Use quality sausage – Opt for high-quality Italian sausage for more robust flavor. The seasoning will greatly enhance your soup.
• Add more veggies – Feel free to sneak in other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.
• Control creaminess – Adjust the amount of milk or half-and-half based on your desired consistency. Add more if you prefer it creamier.
• Enhance flavor with herbs – Fresh herbs like thyme or bay leaves can provide additional depth of flavor while cooking.
• Taste before serving – Always taste your soup before serving to adjust seasoning. A little extra salt or pepper can make a big difference.
• Let it rest – Allowing the soup to sit for about 10 minutes after cooking helps the flavors meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Creamy Sausage & Tortellini Soup

Complementing your Slow Cooker Creamy Sausage & Tortellini Soup with the right sides can turn a cozy meal into an unforgettable feast. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Knots – Soft and buttery knots brushed with garlic and herbs make ideal companions for your soup.
2. Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with Caesar dressing, croutons, and Parmesan adds freshness and crunch.
3. Bruschetta – Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and olive oil offers a light yet flavorful bite.
4. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies bring out natural sweetness and add color to your plate.
5. Stuffed Mushrooms – Savory stuffed mushrooms provide an elegant touch while being easy to prepare ahead of time.
6. Potato Wedges – Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs are perfect for dipping into your creamy soup.
7. Antipasto Platter – A selection of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables creates a flavorful starter.
8. Cornbread Muffins – Sweet cornbread muffins add a delightful contrast to the savory soup while being easy to munch on.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Slow Cooker Creamy Sausage & Tortellini Soup, you may encounter some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

• Ignoring browning the sausage: Skipping this step can lead to a less flavorful soup. Browning the sausage enhances its taste and adds depth.
• Overcooking the tortellini: If you add tortellini too early, it can become mushy. Add it during the last 45 minutes of cooking for the perfect texture.
• Not adjusting seasoning: Tasting your soup before serving is crucial. Always adjust salt and pepper to enhance flavors right before serving.
• Using low-quality broth: A poor broth will affect the overall flavor of your soup. Opt for high-quality broth or homemade stock for the best results.
• Neglecting fresh ingredients: Using wilted veggies or expired dairy can ruin your dish. Always check ingredient freshness for optimal taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow soup to cool before refrigerating to maintain texture.

Freezing Slow Cooker Creamy Sausage & Tortellini Soup

• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Leave space at the top of containers as liquids expand when frozen.

Reheating Slow Cooker Creamy Sausage & Tortellini Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat until warm.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in intervals, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat while stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Slow Cooker Creamy Sausage & Tortellini Soup so comforting?

The combination of creamy broth, savory sausage, and tender tortellini creates a warm and satisfying meal perfect for chilly days.

Can I customize Slow Cooker Creamy Sausage & Tortellini Soup?

Absolutely! You can add different vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or even switch out the sausage for chicken or turkey.

How long does this soup take to cook?

Cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for approximately 4 hours, giving you flexibility depending on your schedule.

Can I use frozen tortellini in this recipe?

Yes! Frozen tortellini works well; just add it during the last 45 minutes of cooking.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Creamy Sausage & Tortellini Soup is a deliciously versatile dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers throughout the week. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Feel free to customize it with your preferred vegetables or proteins!