Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that warms the soul, you’ll adore this Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage recipe! It’s one of those dishes that feels like a big hug after a long day. Perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings with family and friends, this comforting meal checks all the boxes: it’s easy, delicious, and satisfying.

What makes this recipe truly special is how effortlessly it comes together. Just toss everything into your crockpot and let it work its magic while you go about your day. The result? A creamy, flavorful dish that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Simple: With just a few ingredients, this dish is a breeze to prepare.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the cheesy tortellini and savory sausage!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep it in the morning and come home to a delightful dinner ready to serve.
• Deliciously Comforting: The combination of cream cheese, tomatoes, and spinach creates a rich flavor that warms you inside out.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients for this Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage is easy! You’ll find these simple, wholesome items elevate your dish without fuss.

For the Dish

• 1 (19 oz) bag frozen cheese tortellini
• 1 lb Italian sausage
• 1 (10 oz) bag fresh spinach
• 2 cans Italian-style diced tomatoes
• 2 (12 oz) cans low-fat chicken broth
• 1 (8 oz block) cream cheese, cut into cubes

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey sausage or a meat alternative for a lighter version.
• Add more veggies: Toss in bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra nutrition!
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning for an extra kick of flavor.
• Make it vegetarian: Omit the sausage entirely and add more beans or lentils instead!

How to Make Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Cook the Italian sausage until it’s browned and crumbled. This step is key because browning adds depth and richness to the flavor of your dish.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Crockpot

Now, transfer the cooked sausage to your crockpot. Add in the fresh spinach, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and cream cheese cubes. Stir everything together! This little mix ensures every bite is packed with flavor.

Step 3: Let It Cook

Cover your crockpot and set it to low heat. Let everything simmer for about five hours. Remember to stir it twice during cooking; this helps blend those yummy flavors even more!

Step 4: Add Tortellini

About 20 minutes before serving time, toss in the frozen tortellini. Give it a good stir again. This final step makes sure your tortellini cooks perfectly tender while soaking up all those delicious flavors from the sauce.

And there you have it! Your Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage is now ready to be enjoyed. Serve hot in bowls with some crusty bread on the side for dipping—trust me; you won’t want to miss that!

Pro Tips for Making Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage

Cooking in a crockpot is a wonderful way to create flavorful meals with minimal effort! Here are some pro tips to ensure your Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage turns out perfectly every time.

• Brown the sausage first: This step enhances the flavor of the dish by developing a rich, savory base that will infuse the entire meal. A little extra time at the skillet pays off big in taste!
• Add spinach towards the end: To preserve its vibrant color and nutrients, add spinach closer to the end of cooking. This keeps it fresh and bright, adding both visual appeal and health benefits.
• Use frozen tortellini: Frozen tortellini is convenient and cooks perfectly in the crockpot without becoming mushy. It also saves time on prep, allowing you to enjoy your meal sooner!
• Stir occasionally: If you can, give your dish a gentle stir a couple of times during cooking. This helps distribute heat evenly and keeps all ingredients well combined for maximum flavor.
• Adjust seasoning to taste: Everyone’s palate is different! Before serving, taste your dish and feel free to tweak seasonings or add a pinch of salt or pepper if needed.

How to Serve Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage

Serving this delicious meal can be just as fun as making it! With its creamy texture and hearty ingredients, there are plenty of ways to present this comforting dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil: A sprinkle of chopped fresh basil on top adds an aromatic touch that complements the dish beautifully.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: While avoiding animal-derived products, consider using a plant-based parmesan alternative for an added layer of flavor that guests will love.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: A warm loaf of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce in your bowl. The buttery flavor pairs wonderfully with the creamy tortellini.
• Mixed green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the main dish.
• Steamed broccoli: Adding steamed broccoli not only brings vibrant color to your plate but also boosts nutrition while complementing the flavors of your meal.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add depth and variety. Try carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers tossed with olive oil and herbs for a delightful side.

Enjoy crafting this delightful meal with family or friends—it’s sure to become a favorite in your household!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious flavors throughout the week. Whether you’re planning a busy week or just want to have comforting meals ready at hand, this dish is your go-to!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers into airtight containers.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days for best freshness.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool down and portion it into freezer-safe containers.
• Label each container with the date and contents.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen portions overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Heat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• You can also microwave individual servings in a covered bowl for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage.

Can I use fresh cheese tortellini instead of frozen?

Yes! If you prefer fresh cheese tortellini, add it during the last 10 minutes of cooking to ensure it doesn’t overcook.

How can I make my Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage healthier?

You can swap the Italian sausage for turkey or chicken sausage, and substitute low-fat cream cheese with a dairy-free option if desired.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Absolutely! This recipe is great for meal prep. Just follow the storage instructions after cooking to keep it fresh.

What sides go well with Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage?

A simple side salad or some crusty whole-grain bread pairs wonderfully with this hearty dish!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this comforting Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage recipe as much as I do! It’s a wonderful way to bring warmth to your dinner table, perfect for sharing with loved ones. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to get creative with your own twists on this delightful dish!