Slow Cooker Creamy Sausage & Recipe
Looking for a cozy, comforting soup to warm up your evening? This Slow Cooker Creamy Sausage & Tortellini Soup is a must-try! With tender Italian sausage, cheesy tortellini, and a rich, creamy broth, it’s the perfect blend of flavors. Let it simmer all day in your slow cooker, and enjoy a stress-free, satisfying meal. Ideal for busy weeknights or a lazy weekend, this soup will quickly become a family favorite!
🛒 Ingredients
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, depending on your preference)
- 1 large onion, diced (adds a sweet and savory base flavor)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (for that aromatic kick)
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz; undrained, for a touch of acidity and brightness)
- 4 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred, to control saltiness)
- 1 cup heavy cream (for a luxuriously creamy texture)
- 1 package refrigerated tortellini (9-12 oz; cheese-filled, for that delicious cheesy bite)
- 2 cups fresh spinach (for a pop of color and added nutrition)
- Salt and pepper (to taste; adjust to your liking)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving; optional, but highly recommended)
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Sausage Mixture
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the Italian sausage, breaking it up into crumbles as it cooks.
- Add in the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is soft and translucent, and the garlic is fragrant (about 3-4 minutes).
- Drain any excess fat.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
- Transfer the cooked sausage, onion, and garlic mixture to your slow cooker.
- Add in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), chicken broth, and heavy cream. Stir until well combined.
Step 3: Set and Forget
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 4: Add Tortellini and Spinach
- About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the refrigerated tortellini and fresh spinach.
- Continue cooking until the tortellini is tender and the spinach is wilted.
Step 5: Season and Serve
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Ladle the hot soup into bowls, and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
🍲 Helpful Tips
- Choose your sausage: Mild or spicy Italian sausage both work wonderfully. Go with what your family loves!
- Cream adjustment: If you prefer a lighter version, swap out the heavy cream for half-and-half or even whole milk.
- Make it your own: Add chopped carrots, celery, or bell peppers for extra texture and flavor.
- Cooking shortcut: Use pre-cooked sausage to save a step and reduce cooking time.
🧀 Storage & Reheating Tips
- Refrigerator: Store leftover soup in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
- Freezer: This soup freezes well, but for best results, omit the tortellini and spinach before freezing. Add them in fresh when reheating. Freeze for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container.
- Reheating Tip: If reheating from frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before gently reheating on the stovetop.
❓ 20 Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use frozen tortellini instead of refrigerated?
Yes! If using frozen tortellini, add it in about 45 minutes before serving instead of 30.
Q2: What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half, whole milk, or even coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
Q3: Can I use another type of sausage?
Absolutely! Turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even a veggie sausage can be used.
Q4: Will the spinach get soggy?
No, adding it at the end ensures it wilts without turning mushy.
Q5: Can I add more veggies?
Yes, carrots, celery, and bell peppers are excellent additions.
Q6: How do I make it spicier?
Use hot Italian sausage and add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Q7: Can I cook this on the stovetop instead?
Yes, simmer everything in a large pot over medium-low heat for about 1 hour.
Q8: What if I don’t have a slow cooker?
You can use a Dutch oven and cook on low heat for the same duration.
Q9: Can I use fresh tortellini?
Yes, but reduce the cooking time to prevent it from getting too soft.
Q10: How do I prevent the cream from curdling?
Use room temperature cream and add it gradually, stirring constantly.
Q11: Can I use canned spinach?
Fresh is best, but canned spinach can be used in a pinch—just drain it well.
Q12: How do I thicken the soup?
Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir into the soup.
Q13: Can I use ground beef instead?
Yes, but you’ll lose some of the spiciness and flavor that sausage adds.
Q14: Is this soup gluten-free?
Use gluten-free tortellini and verify that all ingredients are GF certified.
Q15: Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Yes, use coconut milk instead of cream and opt for a dairy-free tortellini.
Q16: What type of tortellini works best?
Cheese-filled tortellini is classic, but meat or spinach-filled options are great too.
Q17: Can I use dried tortellini?
Yes, but it may require a longer cooking time—add 45 minutes to 1 hour before serving.
Q18: What if the soup is too thick?
Add a splash of extra chicken broth until it reaches your desired consistency.
Q19: Can I use kale instead of spinach?
Yes, kale holds up better in the soup, but it will take a bit longer to cook.
Q20: Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Yes! Just wait to add the tortellini and spinach until reheating for best results.
✨ 20 Secrets for Culinary Perfection
- Brown the sausage well for maximum flavor.
- Use fresh garlic for a stronger, richer taste.
- Deglaze the skillet with a splash of broth to get every bit of flavor.
- Add a Parmesan rind to the slow cooker for a cheesy, savory boost.
- Use fire-roasted tomatoes for extra depth.
- Swap out chicken broth for bone broth for more richness.
- Sauté onions until caramelized for an extra layer of sweetness.
- Don’t overcook the tortellini—add them at the end.
- Adjust the seasoning at the very end for the best balance.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for a more pronounced flavor.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a burst of freshness.
- Stir in a splash of white wine for added complexity.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg to enhance the creamy base.
- Top with crushed red pepper flakes for a kick.
- Use half sausage, half ground turkey for a leaner version.
- Try adding mushrooms for an umami boost.
- Finish with a swirl of pesto for extra herbaceous flavor.
- Use a mix of spinach and arugula for added pepperiness.
- Add a dollop of ricotta for a touch of creaminess.
- Serve with crusty bread to soak up every last drop!
Enjoy your delicious, comforting Slow Cooker Creamy Sausage & Tortellini Soup
