Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage – Comforting & Creamy

This Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage – Comforting & Creamy is a delightful dish that brings warmth and flavor to your dinner table. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family gathering, this recipe combines creamy cheese tortellini with tender sausage and vibrant spinach. With minimal effort required, you can enjoy a satisfying meal that everyone will rave about.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Just toss all the ingredients into your crockpot and let it do the work for you.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of savory sausage, creamy cheese, and fresh vegetables creates a deliciously comforting dish.
• Versatile Meal: Ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep for the week ahead.
• Crowd Pleaser: With its creamy texture and flavorful ingredients, this dish is sure to impress guests of all ages.
• Healthy Twist: Packed with spinach and protein, it’s a wholesome option that doesn’t compromise on taste.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes preparing your Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage – Comforting & Creamy so much easier. Here are some essential items to have on hand.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Skillet
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: The star of this recipe! It allows for hands-off cooking while infusing flavors over time.
• Skillet: Perfect for browning sausage before adding it to the slow cooker, enhancing the overall flavor.
• Cutting board & Knife: Essential for preparing fresh ingredients quickly and safely.

Ingredients

For the Sausage

• 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)

For the Tortellini

• 1 (19 oz) package frozen cheese tortellini

For the Vegetables

• 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 (28 oz) can diced tomatoes (undrained)

For the Creamy Base

• 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, cubed
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage – Comforting & Creamy

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat and set aside.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Crockpot

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.

Step 3: Add Cream Cheese

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.

Step 4: Incorporate Tortellini and Spinach

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.

Step 5: Season to Taste

Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 6: Serve Warm

Ladle the creamy, cheesy tortellini mixture into bowls. Enjoy with crusty bread or a simple salad for a complete meal!

How to Serve Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage – Comforting & Creamy

This creamy dish is versatile and pairs well with various sides and accompaniments. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

With Crusty Bread

• A warm, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce. Choose a baguette or sourdough for an excellent texture contrast.

Fresh Salad

• Serve with a simple mixed greens salad tossed with vinaigrette. The freshness of the greens balances the richness of the dish.

Garlic Bread

• Toasted garlic bread adds a flavorful crunch that complements the creamy tortellini beautifully. It’s an easy addition that everyone loves.

Grated Parmesan Cheese

• Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan on top before serving for an extra layer of flavor. This touch enhances the cheesy goodness of the dish.

Steamed Vegetables

• Pair with steamed broccoli or green beans for a nutritious side. The bright colors and crisp textures provide a lovely contrast to the meal.

Lemon Wedges

• A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over your serving can brighten the flavors. It adds a zesty twist that contrasts nicely with the creaminess.

How to Perfect Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage – Comforting & Creamy

To ensure your Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage is as delicious as possible, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Quality Sausage: Opt for high-quality Italian sausage for better flavor. This will enhance the overall taste of your dish significantly.

• Experiment with Seasonings: Don’t hesitate to adjust seasonings like garlic or Italian herbs. Personalizing flavors can make your dish unique.

• Add More Veggies: Consider adding bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor. These veggies can be easily incorporated into the cooking process.

• Adjust Cooking Time: Every crockpot cooks differently, so keep an eye on your meal as it cooks. Adjust times if needed to avoid overcooking.

• Thicken Your Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix in some cornstarch slurry during the last hour of cooking. This will create a creamier texture.

• Prep Ahead: For busy nights, you can prep all ingredients in advance and store them in the fridge overnight. Just transfer everything to the crockpot in the morning!

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage – Comforting & Creamy

When planning your meal, pairing side dishes can elevate your experience. Here are some great options to serve alongside your tortellini dish.

1. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with Caesar dressing and croutons creates a classic pairing.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like carrots and Brussels sprouts add texture and flavor.
3. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic offer comfort alongside this cheesy dish.
4. Italian Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and garlic provides a refreshing bite.
5. Antipasto Platter: Include olives, marinated artichokes, and cheeses for a delightful appetizer spread.
6. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a light side that complements creamy dishes.
7. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn either grilled or boiled makes for a fun and easy side.
8. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers stuffed with rice, cheese, or vegetables provide an interesting alternative side option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the outcome of your dish. Here are some tips to ensure your meal turns out perfectly.

• Incorrect Sausage Preparation: Always cook the sausage before adding it to the crockpot. This step helps to enhance its flavor and ensures it’s fully cooked.

• Skipping the Seasoning: Don’t forget to season the dish well. Use salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning generously to elevate the flavors in your creamy sauce.

• Overcrowding with Ingredients: Be mindful not to overload your crockpot. Stick to the recipe’s proportions for optimal cooking conditions and even flavor distribution.

• Not Adding Spinach at the Right Time: To keep the spinach fresh and vibrant, add it during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This ensures it wilts without becoming mushy.

• Ignoring Cooking Times: Make sure you adhere to the recommended cooking times for best results. Adjusting these can lead to undercooked or overcooked ingredients.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate within two hours of cooking.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage – Comforting & Creamy

• Place in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
• Label containers with date for easy tracking.

Reheating Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage – Comforting & Creamy

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.

• Microwave: Place portions in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through until hot.

• Stovetop: Transfer to a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally and heat until warmed through, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage – Comforting & Creamy:

Can I use another type of sausage?

Yes! Feel free to substitute turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option while keeping that same delicious flavor.

How do I make this recipe vegetarian?

You can omit the sausage entirely or replace it with plant-based sausage alternatives for a vegetarian-friendly version.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini can be added along with spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.

What is the best way to serve this dish?

Serve hot in bowls with crusty bread or alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal experience!

How long does it take to cook?

Cooking on low takes about 4-5 hours, while cooking on high takes approximately 2-3 hours.

Final Thoughts

This Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage recipe is not only creamy and comforting but also versatile enough for any occasion. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or trying different types of sausages. Give it a try for your next family dinner!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Chicken Sausage – Comforting & Creamy

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• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 0 hours
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Experience the ultimate comfort food with this Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage recipe. It combines creamy cheese tortellini, savory chicken sausage, and vibrant spinach in a rich, flavorful sauce that practically cooks itself. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings, this dish requires minimal effort while delivering maximum satisfaction. Just toss all your ingredients into the slow cooker and let it work its magic. In just a few hours, you’ll have a delightful meal that will impress even the pickiest eaters. Serve it alongside crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete dining experience.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb chicken sausage (mild or spicy)
• 19 oz frozen cheese tortellini
• 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 28 oz can diced tomatoes (undrained)
• 8 oz cream cheese, cubed
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 tsp minced garlic
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the chicken sausage until fully cooked. Drain fat and set aside.
2. In the crockpot, combine the cooked sausage, diced tomatoes (with juice), minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and chicken broth. Stir well.
3. Add cubed cream cheese on top of the mixture. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours until melted.
4. In the last 30 minutes of cooking, add frozen tortellini and fresh spinach; stir to combine.
5. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 4-5 hours (low)
• Category: Main
• Method: Slow cooker
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 14g
• Cholesterol: 40mg