Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage

This Crockpot tortellini soup with sausage is a delightful and hearty dish perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a gathering with friends, this slow cooker soup brings comfort and flavor together effortlessly. Packed with savory sausage, vibrant vegetables, and cheesy tortellini, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Plus, the ease of preparation makes it ideal for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Convenient and Time-Saving: Simply toss all your ingredients into the Crockpot and let it do the work for you!
• Rich Flavor: The combination of spices and fresh ingredients ensures every spoonful is bursting with taste.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or use different types of broth to suit your preferences.
• Perfect for Leftovers: This soup stores well in the fridge and tastes even better the next day—ideal for meal prep!
• Family-Friendly Dish: With its creamy texture and cheesy goodness, kids and adults alike will love this comforting meal.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing this delicious soup requires just a few essential tools that make the process seamless. Gather these items before you start cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker (Crockpot)
• Skillet
• Chopping board
• Knife
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker (Crockpot): This is crucial for achieving the perfect blend of flavors while requiring minimal effort.
• Skillet: Ideal for browning the sausage, which enhances its flavor before adding it to the soup.
• Chopping board & Knife: These make prepping your vegetables quick and efficient, ensuring uniform pieces that cook evenly.

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 Tortellini

• 2 (9 ounce) packages refrigerated cheese tortellini

For Finishing Touches

• 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: Prepare the Sausage Mixture

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

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Crockpot

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

Step 3: Cooking Time Adjustments

1. If cooking on high for 3-4 hours, chop carrots finely.
2. For longer cooking times of 7-8 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high, larger carrot pieces are acceptable.

Step 4: Final Steps Before Serving

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

How to Serve Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage

Crockpot tortellini soup with sausage is versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• A loaf of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the rich broth. Try a baguette or sourdough for an excellent texture contrast.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish each bowl with fresh basil or parsley for added flavor and a pop of color. The herbs will brighten up the dish beautifully.

Add a Sprinkle of Cheese

• Grated Parmesan cheese adds a creamy, salty touch that complements the soup’s flavors. Consider using pecorino romano for a sharper taste.

Serve in Bread Bowls

• For a fun twist, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls. This not only looks impressive but also makes for great edible serving dishes!

Include a Side Salad

• A simple green salad balances the richness of the soup. Toss together mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and your favorite dressing.

How to Perfect Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage

To elevate your crockpot tortellini soup with sausage, consider these helpful tips:

• Brown the sausage: Sautéing the sausage before adding it to the crockpot enhances its flavor and adds depth to the soup.
• Chop vegetables finely: If you want quicker cooking time, finely chop your carrots and celery. This will ensure they become tender faster.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste your soup before serving. Adjust salt and pepper as needed to suit your preference.
• Use homemade broth: For an even richer flavor, consider using homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought versions.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add Italian herbs like oregano or thyme for additional layers of flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage

Enjoying crockpot tortellini soup with sausage can be even better when paired with delightful side dishes. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread – A classic side that perfectly complements any soup, especially when made fresh with butter and minced garlic.
2. Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing, croutons, and Parmesan cheese adds freshness to the meal.
3. Caprese Skewers – Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make a refreshing appetizer.
4. Roasted Vegetables – Season seasonal vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers; roasting brings out their natural sweetness.
5. Stuffed Mushrooms – These bite-sized treats can be filled with cheese or breadcrumbs and make a delicious finger food option.
6. Pasta Salad – A chilled pasta salad loaded with veggies and Italian dressing pairs well while providing a different texture contrast.
7. Spinach Artichoke Dip – Creamy and cheesy, this dip served with pita chips or tortilla chips makes an excellent starter alongside the soup.
8. Antipasto Platter – Assorted olives, cheeses, cured meats (like turkey), and marinated vegetables create a colorful spread that complements the dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the Browning Step: Failing to brown the sausage can lead to a less flavorful soup. Always sauté the sausage with onions before adding it to the Crockpot for maximum flavor.
• Ignoring Vegetable Size: Cutting vegetables too large can result in uneven cooking. Make sure to chop carrots and celery into smaller pieces for uniform tenderness.
• Adding Cream Too Early: If you add cream at the beginning, it may curdle. Instead, stir in the cream about 30 minutes before serving for a smooth finish.
• Neglecting Seasoning Adjustments: Not tasting and adjusting seasoning can leave your soup bland. Always season with salt and pepper just before serving for optimal flavor.
• Overcooking Tortellini: Adding tortellini too early can make it mushy. Add it towards the end of cooking time to keep it perfectly tender.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• The soup will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags and consume within 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on medium power in 1-minute increments, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm gently in a pot over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to common questions about making Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage.

Can I use other types of sausage?

Yes, you can substitute chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter option while still maintaining great flavor.

Is this soup healthy?

This Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage is packed with vegetables and protein, making it a hearty meal choice that can fit into many diets when portioned appropriately.

Can I customize the vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add or substitute with your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.

How do I make this recipe vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, omit the sausage and use vegetable broth along with plant-based tortellini for a delicious meat-free option.

Final Thoughts

Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage is a comforting dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it an appealing choice for both family dinners and gatherings. Don’t hesitate to customize this recipe with your favorite veggies or proteins!