Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage

This Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage is a delightful and simple slow cooker recipe that brings comfort to any meal. Perfect for cozy nights or gatherings with family and friends, this soup features savory Italian sausage, hearty vegetables, and creamy tortellini. It’s not just delicious; it’s also an easy one-pot wonder that allows you to enjoy rich flavors without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With minimal prep time, this soup can be ready to cook in just 20 minutes.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of Italian sausage and fresh vegetables creates a robust flavor profile that pleases everyone.
• Versatile Meal: Great for lunch or dinner, this soup can be served on its own or paired with crusty bread for a filling meal.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for gatherings, this recipe serves six, making it perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or adjust the creaminess level to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious soup, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures everything runs smoothly while cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow Cooker: This is the star of the show! It allows for hands-off cooking, letting flavors develop over time.
• Skillet: Perfect for browning the sausage and onions before adding them to the slow cooker, enhancing flavor.
• Cutting Board & Knife: Essential for chopping your vegetables efficiently and safely.

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you’ll need for this flavorful Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage:

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)

For the Liquid Component

• 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)

For Freshness

• 2 cups (packed) fresh baby spinach
• Salt & pepper (to taste)

How to Make Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage

Step 1: Brown the Sausage and Onions

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

Step 2: Combine Key Ingredients in Crockpot

1. Stir in the garlic into the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Transfer the sausage mixture into your Crockpot.
3. Add the carrots, celery, canned tomatoes, and chicken broth.

Step 3: Cook Your Soup

1. For quicker cooking (3-4 hours), chop carrots finely; larger pieces are fine if cooking on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours.

Step 4: Final Touches Before Serving

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

Enjoy your warm bowl of comfort with this easy-to-make Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage, perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage

Crockpot tortellini soup with sausage is a warm and delicious dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions:

Pair with Crusty Bread

• A loaf of fresh crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the soup, adding a satisfying texture to each bite.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle freshly chopped basil or parsley on top for an aromatic finish that complements the flavors of the soup.

Add Grated Parmesan Cheese

• A generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese adds richness and depth, making every spoonful even more indulgent.

Serve with a Simple Salad

• A light side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy soup.

Use as a Filling for Bread Bowls

• Hollow out bread rolls and fill them with the soup for a fun and edible way to serve it at gatherings.

Offer Hot Sauce on the Side

• For those who enjoy a bit of heat, provide hot sauce for an extra kick that enhances the overall flavor profile.

How to Perfect Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage

To achieve the best results with your crockpot tortellini soup, consider these helpful tips:

• Choose High-Quality Sausage: Opt for lean chicken or turkey sausage for a healthier version without sacrificing flavor.

• Chop Vegetables Evenly: Ensure carrots and celery are chopped uniformly so they cook evenly in the slow cooker.

• Adjust Cooking Times: For firmer vegetables, opt for shorter cooking times; longer cooking can soften them too much.

• Stir Occasionally: If possible, stir the soup halfway through cooking to blend all ingredients well and enhance flavors.

• Add Spinach Last: To keep spinach vibrant and fresh, add it during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

• Taste Before Serving: Adjust seasoning just before serving to ensure the right balance of flavors in your soup.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage

Complement your crockpot tortellini soup with these delicious side dishes. Each option adds variety to your meal while enhancing its overall appeal.

1. Garlic Bread: Toasted slices of garlic bread pair beautifully and are great for soaking up the flavorful broth.

2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad brings crisp romaine lettuce and creamy dressing that contrasts nicely with the warmth of the soup.

3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrition, making your meal more wholesome.

4. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic reduction provide a refreshing bite.

5. Stuffed Mushrooms: Baked stuffed mushrooms filled with cheese and herbs offer a savory bite that complements the main dish.

6. Antipasto Platter: An assortment of olives, marinated artichokes, and cheeses brings Italian flair and variety to your table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crockpot tortellini soup with sausage, it’s easy to overlook some details that can impact the final result. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Overcooking the Vegetables: If you chop your carrots and celery too large, they may not cook properly in shorter time frames. Cut them finely if you want a quicker cook time.

• Ignoring Seasoning: Failing to season your soup adequately can lead to bland flavors. Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving.

• Not Browning the Sausage: Skipping the step of browning the sausage can result in a less flavorful soup. Browning adds depth and richness to the dish.

• Adding Tortellini Too Early: Adding cheese tortellini too early can make it mushy. Wait until about 30 minutes before serving for perfect texture.

• Using Excessive Cream: While cream adds richness, too much can overpower other flavors. Start with a smaller amount and adjust based on your taste preference.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Leave space at the top of containers for expansion as the soup freezes.

Reheating Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake until heated through, stirring occasionally.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium heat in a pot, stirring frequently until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use different types of sausage?

Yes, you can substitute turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option without sacrificing flavor.

How do I make this soup vegetarian?

To make it vegetarian, omit the sausage and replace chicken broth with vegetable broth. You can also add more vegetables for extra nutrients.

Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, zucchini, or any favorite vegetables for added nutrition and flavor.

How long does this soup take to cook?

If using high heat, it takes approximately 4-5 hours; on low heat, it takes around 7-8 hours.

Final Thoughts

Crockpot tortellini soup with sausage is a delightful dish that combines comforting flavors with convenience. It’s versatile—feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spices according to your taste. Give it a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!