Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage

Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage is a comforting, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With tender sausage, creamy cheese tortellini, juicy tomatoes, and hearty spinach, this slow-cooker recipe offers a satisfying meal that the whole family will love. The best part? It’s all prepared in one pot, making clean-up a breeze!

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage Recipe

This Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage recipe is a winner for several reasons. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to prepare. Simply add the ingredients to the slow cooker, and let it work its magic. No need to stir constantly or keep an eye on the stove—set it and forget it! Plus, it’s a healthy and hearty meal packed with flavor. The combination of sausage, cheese, and vegetables makes this dish both filling and satisfying.

Whether you’re feeding your family on a busy weekday or preparing a cozy weekend dinner, this crockpot recipe is sure to become a staple. It’s also versatile enough to customize with your favorite ingredients or dietary needs.

Ingredients for Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage recipe:

• Turkey Sausage: Lean and flavorful, this sausage adds a rich, savory taste while keeping the dish lighter.
• Frozen Cheese Tortellini: The star of the dish, these pillowy pockets of pasta are filled with cheese and cook perfectly in the slow cooker.
• Baby Spinach: A handful of spinach adds vibrant color and a boost of nutrients to the dish.
• Diced Tomatoes: These juicy tomatoes bring a burst of freshness and sweetness to the recipe.

• Chicken Broth: The liquid base that helps cook the pasta and makes the sauce creamy.
• Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that infuses the dish with classic Italian flavors.
• Cream Cheese: This ingredient ensures the dish has a velvety, creamy texture.
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: A final topping that melts over the dish, adding extra creaminess and flavor.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

If you need to swap out some ingredients, here are a few ideas:

• Ground Beef or Chicken: If you prefer a different protein, feel free to replace the turkey sausage with ground beef or chicken sausage.
• Frozen Spinach: If you don’t have fresh spinach, frozen spinach works just as well—just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the slow cooker.
• Fresh Tomatoes: If you prefer fresh over canned, use ripe, chopped tomatoes instead of the canned variety for a lighter flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage

1. Brown the Sausage: In a large skillet, brown the turkey sausage over medium-high heat. Use a spatula to crumble it as it cooks. Drain any excess grease once it’s fully cooked.
2. Prepare the Slow Cooker: Grease the inside of a 7-quart slow cooker. Add the frozen cheese tortellini to the bottom, spreading it evenly.
3. Layer the Ingredients: Spread the cooked sausage on top of the tortellini, followed by the spinach leaves and diced tomatoes. Pour in the chicken broth, then sprinkle the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper over everything.
4. Add the Cream Cheese: Cube the cream cheese and place it evenly on top of the ingredients. This will ensure it melts smoothly into the dish.
5. Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 5 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours. Stir occasionally after the first two hours to prevent the tortellini from sticking to the bottom.
6. Top with Mozzarella: Once the cooking time is complete, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top. Let it sit for 15 to 20 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and the flavors to meld.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Stir gently before serving to mix in the melted cheese, and enjoy a warm, creamy, and comforting meal!

Tips & Tricks for the Best Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage

• Stir Occasionally: While it’s tempting to leave the slow cooker alone, stirring a few times during cooking helps prevent the tortellini from sticking to the bottom.
• Avoid Overcooking the Tortellini: The key to perfect tortellini is not overcooking it. If you’re worried about it becoming too soft, cook it on low and check the texture near the 4-hour mark.
• Flavor Enhancements: Add minced garlic when browning the sausage for extra depth of flavor. You can also use spicy Italian sausage if you prefer a bit of heat.
• Storing Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays fresh for up to 2 days. You can easily reheat it in the microwave or stovetop.

Pairing Ideas and Variations for Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage

This Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage recipe pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or crispy garlic bread. For a complete meal, serve with roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers.

Variations:

• Spicy Version: For a spicier kick, use spicy Italian sausage or add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
• Vegetarian Option: Skip the sausage and add more vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for a hearty vegetarian meal.

Make-Ahead Tips:

This dish is perfect for meal prepping. You can prepare the ingredients the night before and let them sit in the fridge overnight. In the morning, simply place everything in the slow cooker and set it to cook. It’s a true time-saver!

Health Benefits of Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage

Not only is this Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage dish incredibly delicious, but it’s also packed with nutrients. The sausage provides protein, while the spinach adds a healthy dose of vitamins A and C. The cheese tortellini gives you carbohydrates for energy, and the chicken broth helps keep you hydrated. Together, they make for a balanced and comforting meal that’s perfect for any time of year.

Conclusion

Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage is the ultimate comfort food that’s both easy to prepare and packed with flavor. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a creamy, savory dish that’s perfect for busy nights when you want a satisfying meal without the hassle. Whether you’re feeding the family or preparing for a cozy dinner, this slow cooker recipe will become a favorite in no time. Plus, with the option to customize the ingredients to suit your preferences, it’s a versatile dish that everyone can enjoy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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