Slow Cooker Creamy Sausage & Tortellini Soup is a comforting and hearty meal that’s perfect for any time of the year. This delicious soup combines flavorful Italian sausage, fresh vegetables, tender cheese tortellini, and a rich, creamy broth. It’s easy to prepare in a slow cooker, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Let’s dive into the recipe and see how to create this mouthwatering soup step-by-step.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground Italian sausage, browned (or ground chicken/turkey/beef)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 2 tsp beef or chicken bouillon
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 4 cups broth (beef, chicken, or veggie)
- 1/4 cup cornstarch dissolved in 1/4 cup water
- 36 oz evaporated milk or half-and-half
- 12 oz packet cheese tortellini (fresh or dried)
- 5 cups baby spinach
- 1 cup milk, plus more as needed
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Brown the Sausage: In a large skillet, brown the ground Italian sausage over medium-high heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat and transfer the sausage to the slow cooker.
- Chop Vegetables: Chop the onion, carrots, and celery. Mince the garlic cloves.
Step 2: Assemble in the Slow Cooker
- Add Ingredients: Add the chopped onion, carrots, celery, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, beef or chicken bouillon, salt, and broth to the slow cooker with the browned sausage.
- Mix Well: Stir everything together to combine.
Step 3: Cook the Soup
- Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the vegetables are tender.
Step 4: Add Creaminess and Tortellini
- Add Cornstarch Mixture: About 30 minutes before serving, dissolve the cornstarch in water and add it to the slow cooker. Stir well.
- Add Milk and Tortellini: Add the evaporated milk or half-and-half, cheese tortellini, and baby spinach to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
- Cook Until Tender: Continue cooking on high for another 30 minutes, or until the tortellini is tender.
Step 5: Adjust Consistency and Serve
- Adjust Consistency: If the soup is too thick, add additional milk to reach the desired consistency.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Enjoy this comforting and creamy soup with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad.
Cooking Notes
- Sausage: You can use any ground meat you prefer, such as chicken, turkey, or beef, but Italian sausage adds a wonderful flavor.
- Tortellini: Fresh tortellini will cook faster than dried tortellini. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Spinach: Baby spinach wilts quickly, so add it towards the end of the cooking time to retain its vibrant color and nutrients.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta? A: Yes, you can use any small pasta shape you prefer, but adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the pasta is tender.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Q: Can I freeze this soup? A: Yes, you can freeze the soup without the tortellini and spinach. When ready to serve, thaw, reheat, and add the tortellini and spinach during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Keto/Low Carb Version
To make a keto or low-carb version of this soup, follow these modifications:
- Pasta: Replace the tortellini with a low-carb pasta or omit it altogether.
- Cornstarch: Use xanthan gum or another keto-friendly thickener instead of cornstarch.
- Milk: Use heavy cream instead of evaporated milk or half-and-half for a lower-carb option.
Slow Cooker Creamy Sausage & Tortellini Soup is a delightful and satisfying dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. The combination of savory sausage, fresh vegetables, tender tortellini, and a rich, creamy broth is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Try this recipe today and enjoy a bowl of comforting goodness!
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