If you’re craving a cozy, comforting meal that practically makes itself, then you have to try this Crockpot Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe. It’s a luscious, hearty soup that bursts with Italian flavors from savory sausage, tender tortellini, fresh spinach, and a creamy tomato base. Whether you’re winding down after a busy day or feeding a hungry crowd, this recipe delivers a bowlful of warmth and satisfaction that feels like a hug in soup form. Plus, it’s so simple to prepare—just toss your ingredients into the crockpot and let the magic happen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting together the ingredients for this Crockpot Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe is straightforward, and each one plays a crucial role in building the layers of flavor and texture. From fresh vegetables to luscious cheese, every component lifts the dish to something truly special.
- 2 Tbsp olive oil: Adds richness and helps sauté the aromatics beautifully.
- 1 yellow onion (diced): Provides a sweet, savory base when softened.
- 1 lb Italian sausage: Brings smoky, spicy depth to the soup.
- 4-5 garlic cloves (minced): Infuses the broth with fragrant warmth.
- 4 carrots (chopped): Adds subtle sweetness and a hearty crunch.
- 3 celery stalks (chopped): Contributes to the classic mirepoix flavor foundation.
- 15 oz. can crushed tomatoes: Creates a rich and tangy tomato base.
- 15 oz. can diced tomatoes: Adds texture and bursts of tomato flavor.
- 1½ cup marinara sauce: Deepens the tomato complexity with herbaceous notes.
- 4-5 cups low sodium chicken broth: Keeps the soup light while layering savory taste.
- 2-3 tsp Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that tie it all together.
- ½ tsp salt and pepper (more to taste): Balances and enhances all the flavors.
- ¼-½ tsp crushed red pepper: Adds just the right amount of kick for a lively finish.
- 20 oz refrigerated cheese tortellini: Provides tender, cheesy pockets of joy throughout.
- 2 large handfuls spinach: Adds freshness, color, and nutritional goodness.
- ½ cup heavy cream: Makes the soup luxuriously creamy and smooth.
- ⅓-½ cup parmesan cheese (grated): Tangy finishing note that melts into the broth.
- ¼ cup fresh basil (chopped, optional): Brightens the dish with aromatic herbaceousness.
How to Make Crockpot Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage and Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions turn translucent and the garlic releases its mouthwatering fragrance—this builds the foundational flavor. Next, add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart so it browns evenly. Once it’s perfectly caramelized, drain any excess grease to keep your soup from becoming too oily.
Step 2: Layer the Vegetables and Liquids in the Crockpot
Place the chopped carrots and celery at the bottom of your crockpot—it acts like a cozy bed for the other ingredients. Spoon your cooked sausage and onions on top. Now pour in the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, marinara sauce, and chicken broth. Start with 4 cups of broth and add more later if you want a thinner soup. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper, then stir everything gently to combine all those wonderful flavors.
Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection
Set your crockpot to low and cook for about 6 to 7 hours, or use the high setting for 3 to 4 hours if you’re pressed for time. This slow cooking lets all the flavors marry beautifully, softening the vegetables and developing that cozy, homemade taste you’re after.
Step 4: Add Tortellini, Spinach, and Cream
About 20 to 30 minutes before you’re ready to eat, switch your crockpot to high if it’s on low. Stir in the cheese tortellini, fresh spinach, heavy cream, and grated parmesan cheese. Cook just until the tortellini is al dente—about 15 to 20 minutes—stirring occasionally to avoid sticking. This step enriches the soup, making it creamy and filling without overpowering the bright flavors you’ve already built.
Step 5: Finish with Fresh Basil and Serve
Turn the heat down to warm or turn off the crockpot once the tortellini is ready to prevent mushy pasta. Sprinkle chopped fresh basil over the top for a burst of color and herbal brightness. A little extra parmesan on the side is a wonderful touch for those who love a cheesy finish.
How to Serve Crockpot Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe
Garnishes
For the ultimate presentation and flavor, I love topping this soup with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of extra parmesan cheese. A drizzle of good quality olive oil or a few red pepper flakes also make a nice finishing touch if you want a little more depth and spice.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs perfectly with crusty bread or buttery garlic rolls that are ideal for dunking into that rich broth. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette also provides a refreshing contrast to the soup’s creaminess.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests, serve this Crockpot Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe in individual soup crocks and garnish each bowl with a basil sprig and shaved parmesan. Another idea is to ladle it over a scoop of cooked polenta for an extra cozy and comforting meal vibe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Crockpot Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it a perfect make-ahead meal.
Freezing
This soup freezes well before you add the tortellini, spinach, and cream to keep the texture intact. Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before finishing the soup on the stovetop with the fresh ingredients added last.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring often to prevent the cream from splitting and to warm the tortellini evenly. Adding a splash of broth while reheating helps keep it silky smooth.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! While Italian sausage gives this soup its classic flavor, you can substitute with spicy chorizo for a smoky twist or turkey sausage for a leaner option without sacrificing taste.
What if I can’t find refrigerated tortellini?
You can use frozen tortellini instead—just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time. Avoid dried pasta, as it won’t cook well in the soup and can throw off the texture.
Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?
Yes, you can adapt it by using the sauté function to brown the sausage and onions first, then pressure cook all the ingredients (except spinach, cream, tortellini, and cheese) on high for about 10 minutes. Add the final ingredients after pressure cooking and simmer on sauté until tortellini is tender.
Is there a way to make this soup dairy-free?
Definitely! Skip the heavy cream and parmesan, and replace them with coconut cream and nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese alternative to keep it creamy and flavorful without dairy.
How can I thicken the soup if it’s too thin?
Let it cook uncovered for a bit longer to reduce the liquid or stir in a slurry made of cornstarch and cold water, then simmer until thickened. Adding more cheese can also thicken and enrich the soup.
Final Thoughts
This Crockpot Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe is a true kitchen winner—easy to prepare, bursting with flavor, and comforting in every bite. Whether you’re a busy weeknight cook or hosting friends, it always hits the spot. I encourage you to give it a try and experience that perfect blend of cozy and delicious for yourself. Once you do, it might just become your new go-to comfort food!
Print
Crockpot Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours (on high) to 7 hours (on low)
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes to 7 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Crockpot Sausage Tortellini Soup is a hearty and comforting meal, combining savory Italian sausage, tender tortellini, and fresh vegetables simmered to perfection in a rich tomato and creamy broth. Slow-cooked to allow flavors to meld beautifully, this soup is perfect for a cozy family dinner or meal prep, offering a satisfying blend of textures and tastes with every spoonful.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 4–5 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 lb Italian sausage
- 4 carrots, chopped
- 3 celery stalks, chopped
Liquid and Tomato Components
- 15 oz can crushed tomatoes
- 15 oz can diced tomatoes
- 1½ cup marinara sauce
- 4–5 cups low sodium chicken broth
Seasonings
- 2–3 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt (more to taste)
- ½ tsp pepper (more to taste)
- ¼–½ tsp crushed red pepper
Main Cheese and Greens
- 20 oz refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 2 large handfuls fresh spinach
- ½ cup heavy cream
- â…“–½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics and Sausage: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onions become translucent and the garlic is fragrant. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it into chunks as you cook. Continue to brown the sausage completely, then drain off any excess grease.
- Prepare Crockpot Base: Place the chopped carrots and celery at the bottom of the crockpot. Layer the cooked sausage and onions on top. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, marinara sauce, and chicken broth (starting with 4 cups, reserving the extra broth to adjust thickness if needed later). Sprinkle in Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper. Stir everything gently to combine.
- Slow Cook the Soup: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, allowing the flavors to blend and vegetables to soften thoroughly.
- Add Tortellini and Finish: About 20-30 minutes before serving, if cooking on low, turn the crockpot setting to high. Add the cheese tortellini, fresh spinach, heavy cream, and grated parmesan. Stir occasionally as the tortellini cooks to al dente texture, which should take roughly 15-20 minutes. Once the pasta reaches desired tenderness, switch the crockpot to warm or remove from heat to prevent overcooking and mushy pasta.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped basil and additional parmesan cheese if desired. Serve warm and enjoy the comforting flavors.
Notes
- Use low sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness of the soup.
- Adjust crushed red pepper to taste for preferred spice level.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or omit it entirely.
- Refrigerated cheese tortellini cooks faster in the crockpot than dried varieties.
- Check seasoning before serving and adjust salt and pepper accordingly.
