There’s something inherently comforting about a bowl of hot soup, especially when it’s filled with the rich flavors of Italian sausage, creamy cheese, and tender tortellini. This Slow Cooker Creamy Sausage & Tortellini Soup is a testament to the power of slow cooking, transforming simple ingredients into a deeply flavorful and comforting meal. It’s the kind of dish that invites you to slow down and savor each spoonful, offering warmth and satisfaction on even the coldest of days.
The beauty of this soup lies not only in its delicious taste but also in its simplicity and versatility. Whether you’re gathering around the table with family, entertaining friends, or simply looking for a cozy meal to unwind with, this soup delivers. It’s a reminder of the joys of home cooking and the pleasures of dishes made with care and patience. Serve it with a side of crusty bread for the ultimate comfort meal that’s sure to become a cherished part of your recipe collection.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb. Italian sausage, casing removed
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ cups carrots, sliced
- 1 ½ cups celery, chopped
- 4 cups chicken broth
- ½ cup white wine (optional, can substitute chicken broth)
- 1 tsp. dried basil
- 1 tsp. dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 20 oz. cheese tortellini, refrigerated or frozen
- 8 oz. cream cheese, cut into cubes
- 3 cups spinach leaves, roughly chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
Directions:
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the Italian sausage, breaking it into crumbles with a wooden spoon. Once cooked, transfer the sausage to the slow cooker using a slotted spoon to leave behind any excess fat.
- In the same skillet, sauté the onion until translucent. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute before transferring to the slow cooker.
- To the slow cooker, add sliced carrots, chopped celery, chicken broth, white wine (if using), basil, oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours.
- In the last 30 minutes of cooking, add the tortellini and cubes of cream cheese, stirring gently to incorporate.
- Just before serving, stir in the spinach and pour in the heavy cream, allowing the heat to wilt the spinach and meld the flavors.
- Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed and serve warm, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 6 hours on low or 3 hours on high | Total Time: 6 hours 20 minutes to 3 hours 20 minutes
Kcal: Information not provided | Servings: 6-8
Why This Recipe Works
- Ease of Preparation: One of the biggest draws of this recipe is its simplicity. With a slow cooker, the bulk of the cooking is hands-off, allowing flavors to develop over hours without the need for constant supervision.
- Flavorful Ingredients: Each component, from the Italian sausage to the cheese-filled tortellini, is chosen for its ability to contribute depth and richness to the soup. The result is a layered flavor experience in every spoonful.
- Versatility: This recipe is easily adaptable. Vegetarians can substitute the sausage with a plant-based alternative and use vegetable broth, while those looking for a lighter version can opt for turkey or chicken sausage.
Key Ingredients and Substitutions
- Italian Sausage: The foundation of the soup’s robust flavor. For a spicier kick, choose hot Italian sausage, or for a milder soup, go with the sweet variety. Vegetarian sausage can also be used as an alternative.
- Cheese Tortellini: Adds a delightful chew and cheesy richness to the soup. Both refrigerated and frozen tortellini work well, allowing for flexibility in preparation.
- Cream Cheese and Heavy Cream: These ingredients transform the broth into a creamy, indulgent base. For a lighter version, half-and-half can be substituted for the heavy cream.
Cooking Tips for Perfection
- Browning the Sausage: Taking the time to brown the sausage before adding it to the slow cooker enhances the soup’s flavor by adding depth and complexity.
- Layering Flavors: Sautéing the onions and garlic before adding them to the slow cooker builds a flavor foundation that enriches the entire dish.
- Final Touches: Adding the tortellini and cream cheese towards the end of the cooking process ensures the pasta is perfectly cooked and the soup achieves a creamy consistency without curdling.
Serving Suggestions
To balance the richness of the soup, serve it with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette and a side of crusty bread for dipping. For an added touch of elegance, garnish each bowl with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
Conclusion
The Slow Cooker Creamy Sausage & Tortellini Soup is a testament to the joy of slow cooking and the beauty of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly special. It’s a dish that offers comfort, warmth, and the promise of a delicious, hearty meal with minimal effort. Whether for a weeknight dinner, a cozy weekend meal, or a special occasion, this soup is sure to delight and satisfy.