Creamy Crockpot Tortellini Recipe

If you’re searching for your next go-to comfort food, prepare to fall in love with Creamy Crockpot Tortellini. This one-pot wonder brings together pillowy cheese tortellini, flavorful Italian sausage, a luxuriously creamy sauce, and tender baby spinach, all with minimal effort thanks to your slow cooker. Every bite is hearty, cheesy, and packed with bold Italian-inspired flavors, making it a warm hug in a bowl for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Grab a handful of staple ingredients to make this delectable dish come to life. Each one serves a purpose, from creating rich, deep flavor to adding color and texture – and when they come together, you get the magic of Creamy Crockpot Tortellini in every spoonful.

• Refrigerated cheese tortellini: Fresh, cheesy, and perfectly tender, these become the star of your hearty crockpot creation.
• Italian sausage (mild or hot): Adds savory depth and a kick of heat, depending on your preference; crumble it for the best texture.
• Diced tomatoes (undrained): For a pop of sweetness and acidity that balances the creaminess of the sauce.
• Baby spinach: Wilts beautifully into the dish for added color, nutrients, and a gentle earthiness.
• Chicken broth: Makes a flavorful base that ties the sauce together and keeps things deliciously saucy.
• Heavy cream: Where all the creaminess comes from, creating that signature silky texture.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: For bold, salty umami and a classic Italian finish.
• Garlic powder: Infuses consistent garlicky flavor quickly and evenly throughout the sauce.
• Italian seasoning: Brings in the taste of dried herbs without fuss; think oregano, basil, thyme, and more.
• Salt: Essential for seasoning and drawing out the flavors of every ingredient.
• Black pepper: A little heat and background spice to round out each bite.

How to Make Creamy Crockpot Tortellini

Step 1: Brown the Italian Sausage

Start by heating a skillet over medium heat, then add the Italian sausage (casing removed if needed). Break it up with a spoon or spatula as it cooks until it’s deeply browned and crumbly. This not only locks in those savory flavors but also keeps your Creamy Crockpot Tortellini extra satisfying. Once done, be sure to drain the excess grease so your sauce stays silky and not oily.

Step 2: Layer the Base in Your Crockpot

Transfer the cooked sausage straight into your crockpot. Add the undrained diced tomatoes, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and chicken broth. Stir everything together so the flavors start mingling right away. Trust me, this hearty base gives your final dish a deeply savory flavor that’s impossible to resist.

Step 3: Slow Cook to Build Flavor

Secure the lid and set your crockpot to low. Let it work its slow-cooker magic for 3 to 4 hours. During this time, the sausage infuses the broth and tomato mixture with rich, Italian-spiced flavor, creating the tasty foundation for your Creamy Crockpot Tortellini.

Step 4: Add Tortellini, Spinach, and Cream

Give the crockpot a good stir, then pour in the refrigerated cheese tortellini, heavy cream, and fresh baby spinach. Set the crockpot to high and cover again. This quick, 20 to 30 minute finish lets the tortellini cook up perfectly tender, while the spinach wilts and the cream brings everything together in a dreamy sauce.

Step 5: Finish with Parmesan and Serve

Just before serving, sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted in. The cheese thickens the sauce and adds wonderful savory notes. Spoon the gorgeous, creamy mixture into bowls and get ready for that first, irresistible bite of Creamy Crockpot Tortellini!

How to Serve Creamy Crockpot Tortellini

Garnishes

Add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese right before serving for a salty, nutty touch, or scatter on a handful of freshly chopped basil or parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Cracked black pepper, red pepper flakes, or even a drizzle of good olive oil can add the perfect finishing flair.

Side Dishes

This dish is rich enough to stand on its own, but it absolutely loves company! Serve with warm, crusty Italian bread, a simple green salad with tangy vinaigrette, or roasted vegetables. These sides add contrast and round out your Creamy Crockpot Tortellini meal without overpowering the star of the show.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to make your Creamy Crockpot Tortellini extra special, serve it in shallow bowls for a bistro vibe, or top with toasted garlic breadcrumbs for crunch. You can even ladle it into mini bread bowls for a fun, rustic presentation at family gatherings or potlucks – guaranteed to get plenty of wows!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Creamy Crockpot Tortellini stores well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Transfer any remaining pasta and sauce into an airtight container after it cools to room temperature. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making leftovers extra delicious the next day!

Freezing

Freezing is possible, though the tortellini may soften slightly upon thawing. For best results, cool the leftovers completely before packaging in freezer-safe bags or containers. Label and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture.

Reheating

Reheat your Creamy Crockpot Tortellini gently either in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to bring back its original creaminess. Serve hot and enjoy all over again.

FAQs

Can I use frozen tortellini instead of refrigerated?

Absolutely! Just add the frozen tortellini in at the same step but tack on an extra 5 to 10 minutes of cook time at the end to ensure they’re perfectly tender. No need to thaw them first.

Is there a lighter version of Creamy Crockpot Tortellini?

Yes! Swap the heavy cream for half-and-half and use turkey sausage instead of pork to lighten things up. You’ll get all the creamy, cozy feels with a little less richness.

What can I substitute for spinach?

Baby kale or chopped Swiss chard work beautifully as alternatives. Or, if you prefer, simply omit the greens; the dish will still be delicious, just a bit more decadent.

Can I make Creamy Crockpot Tortellini vegetarian?

You can! Replace the sausage with plant-based crumbles or sautéed mushrooms, use vegetable broth instead of chicken, and proceed as directed. You’ll still enjoy that signature creamy comfort.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Use hot Italian sausage for a flavor kick, and add red pepper flakes to taste. A dash of hot sauce stirred in at the end also ups the heat nicely.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like coming home to a bubbling slow-cooked meal, and Creamy Crockpot Tortellini is pure cozy bliss in a bowl. With its luscious sauce and foolproof preparation, it’s sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation. Give it a try and share it with loved ones – you’ll be making delicious memories with every bite!

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