There’s something magical about coming home to a slow cooker filled with a rich, creamy, and aromatic soup like Slow Cooker Creamy Sausage & Tortellini Soup. Packed with tender tortellini, savory sausage, fresh vegetables, and a luscious creamy broth, this dish is a heartwarming meal perfect for busy weeknights, cozy weekends, or special family dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: Your slow cooker does most of the work, letting you focus on your day.
• Packed with Flavor: The combination of Italian sausage, herbs, and tortellini creates a comforting, savory flavor profile.
• Customizable: Swap ingredients to suit dietary needs or personal preferences.
• Meal-Prep Friendly: Make it ahead and enjoy leftovers for days.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Creamy Sausage & Tortellini Soup

Main Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
Italian sausage (or ground chicken, turkey, or beef)	1 lb
Onion, diced	1
Carrots, diced	2 large
Celery, diced	2 stalks
Garlic, minced	3 cloves
Italian seasoning	1 teaspoon
Beef or chicken broth	6 cups
Cornstarch	2 tablespoons
Evaporated milk (or half and half)	1 can (12 oz)
Three-cheese tortellini (fresh or dried)	10 oz
Baby spinach	2 cups
Milk	½ cup, or as needed
Salt and pepper	To taste
Fresh parsley or Parmesan (optional)	For garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Dice the onion, carrots, and celery. Mince the garlic cloves.
2. Brown the sausage in a skillet over medium heat. Break it into crumbles and cook until no longer pink. Drain any excess grease.

Step 2: Assemble the Soup Base

1. In your slow cooker, combine the browned sausage, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, Italian seasoning, and broth.
2. Stir the ingredients together and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Cook in the Slow Cooker

1. Cover and cook on low for 7–8 hours or on high for 4 hours, until the vegetables are tender and flavors are well combined.

Step 4: Add the Creaminess

1. In a small bowl, whisk the cornstarch with the evaporated milk to create a slurry.
2. Pour the slurry into the slow cooker and stir well.

Step 5: Incorporate Tortellini and Spinach

1. Add the tortellini to the soup and cook on high for 45 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.
2. Stir in the baby spinach and let it wilt for 2–3 minutes.

Step 6: Adjust Consistency and Serve

1. Add milk as needed to achieve your desired creamy consistency.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese. Serve hot with crusty bread or a side salad.

Tips for Success

• Use High-Quality Sausage: Opt for a flavorful Italian sausage to elevate the taste of the soup.
• Don’t Overcook Tortellini: Fresh tortellini cooks quickly, so check for doneness after 30–40 minutes to prevent it from becoming mushy.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste the soup before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning as needed.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free tortellini and cornstarch to adapt this recipe for gluten-free diets.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount Per Serving
Calories	350
Protein	18g
Carbohydrates	25g
Fat	20g
Sodium	850mg

Creative Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Replace sausage with plant-based crumbles and use vegetable broth.
• Spicy Twist: Use hot Italian sausage and add red chili flakes for extra heat.
• Add More Veggies: Include zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added texture and nutrients.
• Cheese Upgrade: Try using a blend of Parmesan and Asiago for a richer cheese flavor.

Serving Suggestions

1. Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy broth.
2. Side Salad: A fresh Caesar or garden salad pairs beautifully with this hearty soup.
3. Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio complements the creamy flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen tortellini?

Yes, frozen tortellini works well. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or broth to refresh the texture.

3. Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, but freeze without the tortellini and spinach for best results. Add them fresh when reheating.

4. What can I substitute for evaporated milk?

Half and half or heavy cream are excellent substitutes, though they may alter the richness slightly.

5. Is this recipe keto-friendly?

To make it keto-friendly, skip the tortellini and add zucchini noodles or cauliflower florets.

6. How can I make it dairy-free?

Use coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative and choose dairy-free tortellini or omit it entirely.

Why You Should Try This Recipe

This Slow Cooker Creamy Sausage & Tortellini Soup is more than just a meal—it’s a comforting hug in a bowl. Its rich flavors, creamy texture, and hearty ingredients make it a favorite for families, dinner parties, and meal preppers alike. With minimal effort and maximum reward, it’s a dish that belongs in your regular rotation.

Conclusion: Make It Tonight!

There’s no better time to enjoy the cozy flavors of Slow Cooker Creamy Sausage & Tortellini Soup. Grab your ingredients, fire up your slow cooker, and let this hearty dish warm your home and heart. Your family and friends will thank you for it!

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