Hello, soup lovers! If you’re looking for a warm and cozy dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor, this Slow Cooker Tomato Tortellini Soup is perfect for you. Combining the hearty flavors of Italian sausage, a creamy tomato broth, and tender cheese tortellini, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. Let’s dive into this deliciously comforting recipe!
Introduction
This Slow Cooker Tomato Tortellini Soup is the ultimate comfort food for any day of the week. Made with savory Italian sausage, rich tomato flavors, and creamy chive and onion cream cheese, it’s a dish that’s as easy to prepare as it is satisfying. With minimal prep time and a slow cooker doing all the work, this recipe is perfect for busy days when you still want a homemade meal.
Ingredients
To make this delicious Slow Cooker Tomato Tortellini Soup, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (casings removed)
- 1 (32 oz) container of chicken broth
- 1 (28 oz) can of petite diced tomatoes
- 2 (10.5 oz) cans of tomato soup
- 2 (8 oz) containers of chive and onion cream cheese spread, softened
- 1 (18 oz) package of refrigerated cheese tortellini (uncooked)
These simple ingredients come together to create a creamy, hearty soup with a blend of savory flavors.
Directions
Follow these steps to make your own Slow Cooker Tomato Tortellini Soup:
- Cook the Sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage until it’s browned and no longer pink. Break it up into small pieces as it cooks, then transfer the sausage to your slow cooker.
- Combine Broth and Tomatoes: Add the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and tomato soup to the slow cooker. Stir to combine the ingredients, then cover and cook on LOW for 6 to 8 hours.
- Add Cream Cheese and Tortellini: After the initial cooking time, stir in the softened chive and onion cream cheese, mixing until it’s well combined with the broth. Add the uncooked cheese tortellini, cover, and cook on HIGH for 15 to 30 minutes, or until the tortellini is tender and cooked through.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once the tortellini is done, give the soup a final stir and taste. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if desired, and serve hot. Enjoy your hearty, creamy soup with a side of crusty bread for the perfect meal!
Helpful Tips
- Creamy Texture: To avoid clumps, make sure the cream cheese is fully softened before adding it to the soup. You can even whisk it separately with a little bit of warm broth before mixing it in.
- Tortellini Texture: For a firmer tortellini texture, add it closer to serving time to avoid overcooking.
- Extra Veggies: Add a handful of spinach or kale to the slow cooker in the last 10 minutes of cooking for added color and nutrition.
Cooking Tips
Here are some additional tips to perfect your Slow Cooker Tomato Tortellini Soup:
- Substitute Sausage: For a lighter version, use ground turkey sausage or skip the sausage altogether for a vegetarian option.
- Enhanced Flavor: A splash of heavy cream can be added for extra creaminess, or use fire-roasted tomatoes for a smoky twist.
- Using Frozen Tortellini: If you only have frozen tortellini, allow a bit more cooking time to ensure they’re thoroughly cooked.
Serving Suggestions
This soup is best served hot, topped with freshly grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of chopped basil for extra flavor. Pair it with garlic bread or a fresh side salad for a balanced, satisfying meal. It’s also delicious with a side of cheesy breadsticks or crusty baguette slices for dipping.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the nutritional content for Slow Cooker Tomato Tortellini Soup (per serving):
- Calories: 420
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Protein: 16g
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
- Sodium: 880mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 8g
- Vitamin A: 15%
- Vitamin C: 20%
- Calcium: 20%
- Iron: 12%
This hearty soup is packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, making it a satisfying and nourishing meal.
Storage and Leftovers
Refrigerate: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat: To reheat, warm the soup gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. For a quicker option, microwave on medium power until heated through.
Freezing: This soup is freezer-friendly! Just skip the tortellini before freezing, and add fresh tortellini when you reheat the soup for the best texture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use a different type of tortellini?
Yes, feel free to use spinach or mushroom tortellini if you’d like a variation on the classic cheese filling.
What if I don’t have chive and onion cream cheese?
You can use regular cream cheese and add a teaspoon of onion powder and a sprinkle of dried chives for a similar flavor.
Can I make this on the stovetop instead of a slow cooker?
Absolutely. Simply simmer the broth, tomatoes, and cooked sausage on the stovetop for about 1 hour, then add the cream cheese and tortellini, and cook until the tortellini is tender.
Related Recipes
If you enjoyed this soup, try these other comforting recipes:
- Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup
- Italian Sausage and White Bean Soup
- Tomato Basil Parmesan Soup
- Cheesy Potato and Broccoli Soup
Conclusion
There you have it—the ultimate Slow Cooker Tomato Tortellini Soup recipe! With rich tomato flavors, creamy broth, and tender cheese tortellini, this dish is guaranteed to warm you up on a chilly day. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and perfect for family meals. Give it a try, and let us know how much you enjoyed this cozy bowl of soup!