Description
A cozy crockpot meal combining cheese tortellini, savory Italian sausage, and a light tomato broth perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 1 package (9–12 oz) cheese tortellini — fresh, refrigerated, or frozen
- 1 lb Italian sausage — sliced or crumbled; mild or hot to taste
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups tomato broth OR 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes thinned with 4 cups water/broth
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 4 cups fresh spinach, packed
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1/2 cup heavy cream or 1/3–1/2 cup grated Parmesan for a creamier finish
Instructions
- Add Italian sausage, chopped onion, and minced garlic to the crockpot. Optional: brown the sausage in a skillet first.
- Pour in the tomato broth or thinned crushed tomatoes. Stir in Italian seasoning and season with salt and pepper.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 3 hours.
- About 30 minutes before serving, add the cheese tortellini and spinach, pushing the tortellini down to submerge.
- Cook uncovered for 25–30 minutes until tortellini are tender and spinach is wilted.
- Taste and adjust seasoning. If desired, stir in heavy cream or Parmesan before serving.
Notes
For a lighter version, skip the heavy cream and add more broth. Substitute sausage with plant-based crumbles and use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 180 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Italian