Soup recipes been one of the first things I tried cooking when I was kid , they just give you that warm feeling and you can add anything you like . For most people sausage tortellini soup is the kind of dish that hits the spot no matter the weather , it has soft pasta pockets and spicy sausage bits in a tasty broth .
Cooking it in a crockpot makes it even easier . You just throw stuff in , set it on low and let it go for hours . When you come back the soup tastes way deeper because everything stewed together . It's just a chill way to cook , you dont need to watch a pot and it's perfect for busy nights or last minute guests .
What is Sаusage Tortellini Soup?
This soup mixes little cheese or meat filled tortellini and chunks of Italian sausage in a simple broth that feels homey and rich . It’s got tender pasta pillows swimming in a savory liquid made spicy by the sausage . The mix of soft and chewy bits with meat give each spoonful a nice contrast that just works .
Typical ingredients are Italian sausage , tortellini (fresh or frozen) and veggies like carrots , onions and leafy greens such as spinach or kale . A bit of garlic and some Italian seasoning really bring out that cozy flavor . People all over use this soup when they want something easy but tasty at the same time .
Benefits of Using a Crоckpot for Soups
A crockpot, or slow cooker, changes how you make soups like sausage tortellini by doing most of the work for you . First off it saves you time . You chop and dump ingredients in , turn it on and walk away . No need to stand over the stove .
Slow cooking also makes flavors deeper . As everything simmers for hours , the broth soaks up spice from the sausage and taste melds perfectly . You end up with a richer soup than you’d get quick boiling .
Plus it cuts down kitchen stress . You dont have to stir or watch the pot , so you can relax or handle other stuff . That hands-off approach is great on busy weekdays or when you have friends over and need free hands .
Key Ingredients for Sаusage Tortellini Soup
Getting a good sausage tortellini soup starts with picking the right stuff . Here are the main players that make this soup shine .
Main Ingredients
- Sausage: You can choose Italian sausage or turkey sausage for leaner option .
- Tortellini: Go for fresh or frozen tortellini , filled with cheese or meat based on what you like .
- Broth: Chicken or vegetable broth is the soup base and gives depth to the flavor .
- Vegetables: Use kale or spinach for boost , plus carrots and onions for a little sweetness and crunch .
Optional Ingredients
- Herbs and Spices: Garlic , thyme and bay leaves lift the whole taste .
- Cream: A splash of cream makes the soup smooth and velvety .
- Parmesan cheese: Sprinkled on top for a salty , savory finish .
Suggested Ingredient Variations
Want to mix it up? Try these swaps :
- For vegetarian twist , swap sausage with mushrooms .
- For gluten-free version , use gluten-free tortellini instead .
Preparation Tips for the Perfect Sausage Tortellini Soup
Here are some easy tips to make your soup even better :
- Prepare the Sausage: Browning the sausage first gives more flavor , but you can skip it if you’re in a hurry .
- Chop Vegetables Evenly: Cut carrots , onions and greens to similar sizes so they cook at same rate .
- Layer Ingredients: Put broth at bottom , then veggies and seasonings , and finally tortellini on top so it doesn't get mushy .
sausage tortellini soup crockpot
Equipment
- 1 Crockpot
- 1 Wooden spoon
- 1 Measuring cups and spoons
- 1 Knife
- 1 Cutting board
Ingredients
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 1 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes, with juice
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) for heat
- 1 9 oz package refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Instructions
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Drain excess fat and transfer the sausage to the crockpot.
- Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and chopped celery to the crockpot.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juice), chicken broth, dried basil, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, then cover the crockpot and set it to low. Cook for 6 hours.
- About 15 minutes before serving, stir in the cheese tortellini and fresh spinach. Cover and let it cook until the tortellini is tender.
- Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese.