Why Make This Recipe
Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage is a wonderful dish that brings comfort and warmth to your meal. With creamy and cheesy goodness, it’s an easy way to enjoy a hearty meal. This recipe saves time, as it cooks slowly, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Plus, it’s perfect for busy nights or gatherings, requiring minimal effort with maximum flavor.
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
Directions
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat and set it aside.
- In your crockpot, combine the browned sausage, diced tomatoes (with their juice), minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and chicken broth. Stir everything together to distribute the flavors evenly.
- Scatter the cubed cream cheese over the mixture in the crockpot. Cover with the lid and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the cream cheese has melted and combined with the broth.
- In the last 30 minutes of cooking, add the frozen cheese tortellini and fresh spinach to the crockpot. Stir well to incorporate them into the mixture, ensuring the tortellini cooks through and the spinach wilts.
- Before serving, taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Ladle the creamy, cheesy tortellini and sausage mixture into bowls and serve warm. Enjoy with crusty bread or a simple salad.
How to Serve Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage
Serve this dish warm in bowls. It’s great on its own but pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh salad. You can also top it off with grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
How to Store Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze the dish for longer storage. When freezing, make sure to let it cool first, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
Tips to Make Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage
- Make sure to drain the sausage well to keep the dish from being greasy.
- Stir the cream cheese into the mixture carefully to help it melt evenly.
- If you want a thicker consistency, use less chicken broth.
- Add other vegetables if you like, such as bell peppers or mushrooms.
Variation
You can swap out the Italian sausage for turkey sausage for a lighter option. Additionally, using different types of cheese tortellini, like spinach or mushroom, can give this dish a new twist.
FAQs
Can I use fresh tortellini instead of frozen?
Yes! If using fresh tortellini, reduce the cooking time in the crockpot as it cooks faster.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! You can omit the sausage and add more vegetables and beans for protein.
How can I make this dish spicier?
You can use spicy Italian sausage or add red pepper flakes for extra heat.