Why Make This Recipe
Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage is the perfect dish for anyone who loves comfort food.
It combines creamy, cheesy tortellini with hearty sausage and fresh spinach, making it satisfying and delicious. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also cooks all day, filling your home with a wonderful aroma. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting friends, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table.
How to Make Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage
Ingredients:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
- 1 (19 oz) package frozen cheese tortellini
- 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 (28 oz) can diced tomatoes (undrained)
- 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, cubed
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
3-Step Directions:
- Cook & Combine: In a skillet, brown the Italian sausage over medium heat, then drain the excess fat. Add the sausage, diced tomatoes (with juice), minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and chicken broth to the crockpot. Stir to combine and scatter the cubed cream cheese over the top.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours, until the cream cheese has melted and blended into the broth.
- Finish & Serve: In the last 30 minutes, stir in the frozen cheese tortellini and fresh spinach. Once the tortellini is tender and the spinach wilted, adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve warm with crusty bread or a simple salad.
How to Serve Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage
Serve this dish warm, straight from the crockpot. It pairs well with crusty bread, which is perfect for dipping into the creamy sauce. A simple garden salad on the side can add freshness and crunch to your meal.
How to Store Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage
To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely and transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stove over low heat until heated through.
Tips to Make Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage
- If you prefer a spicier kick, use spicy Italian sausage.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.
- For a lighter version, you can substitute turkey sausage or use a low-fat cream cheese.
Variation
You can substitute the cheese tortellini with any type of pasta you like, but adjust the cooking time accordingly. If using fresh pasta, it may need less time in the crockpot.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cheese tortellini instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh cheese tortellini. The cooking time may be shorter, so add it in closer to the end of the cooking period.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Just make sure to store it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
What can I serve as a side dish?
A simple salad or garlic bread works great as a side dish. You can also serve it with steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage
Ingredients
Method
- In a skillet, brown the Italian sausage over medium heat, then drain the excess fat.
- Add the sausage, diced tomatoes (with juice), minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and chicken broth to the crockpot.
- Stir to combine and scatter the cubed cream cheese over the top.
- Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours, until the cream cheese has melted and blended into the broth.
- In the last 30 minutes, stir in the frozen cheese tortellini and fresh spinach.
- Once the tortellini is tender and the spinach wilted, adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Serve warm with crusty bread or a simple salad.
