If you are looking for a comforting, flavorful, and truly effortless meal, this Slow Cooker Tomato Tortellini Soup Recipe is an absolute game changer. Combining hearty Italian sausage with rich tomato flavors and creamy cheese tortellini, this soup manages to be both cozy and elegant. The slow cooker does all the work, developing deep, vibrant flavors as it simmers all day, so when dinner time arrives, all you need to do is ladle up a bowl of warm, satisfying goodness that feels like a hug in a bowl.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients in this Slow Cooker Tomato Tortellini Soup Recipe are deceptively simple, but each one plays a vital role in creating its fabulous taste and texture. From the savory Italian sausage to the creamy chive and onion cream cheese, these components blend perfectly to offer a vibrant color and irresistible richness.
- Italian sausage (1 lb, casings removed): Adds a robust, savory base with a little spicy kick that infuses the broth.
- Chicken broth (1 container, 32 oz): Provides a flavorful liquid base that ties everything together without overpowering the other ingredients.
- Petite diced tomatoes (1 can, 28 oz): Introduces bright acidity and lovely texture bursts throughout the soup.
- Tomato soup (2 cans, 10.5 oz each): Gives the broth a smooth, comforting thickness and a rich tomato flavor.
- Chive and onion cream cheese spread (2 containers, 8 oz each, softened): Adds a creamy, tangy layer with hints of fresh herbs and onion for extra depth.
- Refrigerated cheese tortellini (1 package, 18 oz, uncooked): Brings cheesy indulgence and delightful bite-sized pasta pockets that soak up the soup’s goodness.
How to Make Slow Cooker Tomato Tortellini Soup Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Sausage
Start by browning the Italian sausage in a skillet over medium heat. You want to cook it until it’s nicely browned and no longer pink inside, breaking it apart into bite-sized pieces as it cooks. This initial step is crucial because it builds the robust savory flavor foundation that will permeate the soup.
Step 2: Add the Base Ingredients
Once your sausage is perfectly cooked, transfer it to your slow cooker. Then pour in the chicken broth, petite diced tomatoes with their juices, and the tomato soup cans. Give it a gentle stir to combine the components. Cover the slow cooker and set it on LOW for 6 to 8 hours. This slow simmer allows all the ingredients to meld together beautifully, producing a rich and flavorful broth.
Step 3: Incorporate the Cream Cheese and Tortellini
When your slow cooker timer goes off, it’s time for the magic creamy touch. Stir in the softened chive and onion cream cheese spread along with the uncooked cheese tortellini. After mixing everything thoroughly, cover and set the slow cooker to HIGH for an additional 15 to 30 minutes, just enough to cook the tortellini until tender and fully infused with the savory tomato goodness.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
The final step is the best part — ladling this vibrant, flavorful Slow Cooker Tomato Tortellini Soup Recipe into warm bowls and sharing the joy. The creamy, cheesy tortellini nestled in the rich tomato broth with savory sausage bits is sheer comfort on a spoon.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Tomato Tortellini Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes can elevate this soup beautifully. A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil or parsley adds a pop of color and fresh herbal brightness. If you love cheese, a shaving of Parmesan or a dollop of grated mozzarella melts wonderfully into each serving. Cracked black pepper on top adds a slight bite that pairs well with the creamy tomato base.
Side Dishes
This soup shines with simple, complementary sides. Crispy garlic bread or warm, crusty baguette slices are perfect for soaking up every last bit of the broth. A light, crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness and makes the meal feel complete without overshadowing the soup’s bold flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this Slow Cooker Tomato Tortellini Soup Recipe in individual bread bowls for an extra cozy presentation that’s nearly edible. You can also layer the soup in clear glass mugs for a fun look showcasing the beautiful colors and textures. For gatherings, set up a garnish bar allowing guests to customize their bowls with herbs, cheese, or chili flakes to suit their tastes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This soup keeps wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store it in airtight containers to preserve the flavors and prevent the tortellini from absorbing too much liquid and becoming mushy. When you’re ready to enjoy, a gentle reheat on the stove or microwave works best.
Freezing
While you can freeze the broth and sausage mixture before adding tortellini and cream cheese, it’s best to freeze this soup without the pasta for optimal texture. Freeze in tightly sealed containers for up to 2 months. When thawing, add fresh tortellini and cream cheese as directed and cook until tender for that perfect finish.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the soup gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup appears too thick after standing, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it. Avoid high heat to keep the cream cheese from separating and to maintain the silky texture.
FAQs
Can I use turkey sausage instead of Italian sausage?
Absolutely! Turkey sausage works well as a leaner alternative and will still infuse the soup with great flavor. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly before adding it to the slow cooker.
Is it necessary to use the chive and onion cream cheese spread?
While this cream cheese adds a lovely layer of flavor and creaminess, you can substitute with plain cream cheese or even a dollop of sour cream. Just keep in mind that the chive and onion adds a subtle savory note that enhances the soup beautifully.
Can I make this recipe in a regular pot instead of a slow cooker?
Yes, you can! Brown the sausage as usual, then simmer the combined ingredients on low heat for about 1 to 1 1/2 hours to develop flavors. Add the cream cheese and tortellini towards the end, cooking until the pasta is tender.
What kind of cheese tortellini is best?
Refrigerated cheese tortellini works best for this recipe since it cooks quickly. You can find them in most grocery stores, often fresh or near the refrigerated pasta section. Frozen tortellini is also an option but may require slight cooking time adjustments.
Can I add vegetables to this soup?
Definitely! Chopped spinach, kale, or mushrooms can be stirred in during the last hour of cooking to add some extra nutrition and texture. Just be sure not to overload the slow cooker so the flavors stay balanced.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Tomato Tortellini Soup Recipe is one of those heartwarming dishes that feels like it was made with love, perfect for any day you need comfort without fuss. It’s incredible how the simplest ingredients can come together into something so rich, creamy, and satisfying. Once you try it, this soup will likely become a regular in your meal rotation, bringing cozy smiles around your table again and again. Grab your slow cooker and get ready for a delicious experience you’ll want to share!
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Slow Cooker Tomato Tortellini Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
This Slow Cooker Tomato Tortellini Soup is a hearty and comforting dish featuring Italian sausage, creamy tomato broth, and cheese-filled tortellini. Perfect for busy days, it combines slow-cooked flavors with a creamy finish, making it an easy and delicious option for family meals.
Ingredients
Meat
- 1 lb Italian sausage (casings removed)
Broth and Tomatoes
- 1 (32 oz) container chicken broth
- 1 (28 oz) can petite diced tomatoes
- 2 (10.5 oz) cans tomato soup
Dairy and Pasta
- 2 (8 oz) containers chive and onion cream cheese spread (softened)
- 1 (18 oz) package refrigerated cheese tortellini (uncooked)
Instructions
- Cook the Sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage until it is browned and no longer pink. Use a spatula to break it into small pieces as it cooks. Once fully cooked, transfer the sausage to the slow cooker.
- Add the Base Ingredients: Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes with their juice, and the tomato soup into the slow cooker containing the cooked sausage. Stir gently to combine. Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW heat for 6 to 8 hours to develop rich flavors.
- Add the Cream Cheese and Tortellini: After the slow cooking period, stir in the softened chive and onion cream cheese spread until fully incorporated, creating a creamy texture. Then, add the uncooked cheese tortellini, stir gently, cover the slow cooker again, and cook on HIGH for 15 to 30 minutes until the tortellini is tender and cooked through.
- Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and serve immediately. The soup is rich, creamy, and perfect for a satisfying meal.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, use spicy Italian sausage instead of mild.
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened for easy mixing into the soup.
- You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a lighter version.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated on the stovetop or microwave.
- If using frozen tortellini, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
