If you love hearty, comforting soups with a burst of flavor, this Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage is a must-try. Tender Italian sausage, cheesy tortellini, and fresh vegetables simmer in a savory broth for a rich and satisfying meal. With the slow cooker doing all the work, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or anytime you want a warm, wholesome dinner without stress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Cooking – Just toss ingredients in the crockpot and let it cook.
- Hearty & Filling – Sausage, tortellini, and vegetables make this a complete meal.
- Family-Friendly – Mild, flavorful, and loved by kids and adults alike.
- Versatile – Easy to customize with different vegetables or seasonings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casing removed)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 package (9–10 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale, chopped
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Sausage
In a skillet, brown the sausage over medium heat until fully cooked and crumbly. Remove excess fat and set aside.
2. Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot
Add browned sausage, onion, garlic, carrots, celery, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
3. Slow Cook
Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until the vegetables are tender.
4. Add Tortellini and Greens
About 15–20 minutes before serving, stir in the tortellini and spinach (or kale). Cook until the tortellini is tender and greens are wilted.
5. Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, and serve hot.
Tips for the Best Tortellini Soup
- Tortellini: Add fresh or refrigerated tortellini toward the end of cooking to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Vegetable Variations: Zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms can be added for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Spice Level: Use spicy sausage or add red pepper flakes for heat.
- Thicker Soup: Mash a few cooked carrots or add 1–2 tbsp cornstarch slurry for a thicker broth.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with garlic bread or crusty rolls for dipping.
- Pair with a light green salad for a balanced meal.
- Top with extra Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil for added richness.
Storing and Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze without tortellini for up to 2 months; cook fresh pasta when serving.
- Reheating: Warm gently on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.
