Description
Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage is a rich, creamy, and hearty slow-cooked meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. This easy comfort food dish combines cheese-filled tortellini, savory Italian sausage, and a flavorful tomato-based sauce for a meal the whole family will love. With minimal prep and simple ingredients, this crockpot recipe is a true crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 1 (20 oz) package cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 4 oz cream cheese, cubed
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 2 cups fresh spinach (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Brown the Sausage – In a skillet, cook Italian sausage over medium heat, breaking it up into crumbles. Drain excess grease.
- Add Ingredients to the Crockpot – Transfer cooked sausage to the crockpot. Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and chicken broth. Stir to combine.
- Slow Cook – Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours to develop flavors.
- Add Tortellini and Cream Cheese – In the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in cheese tortellini and cream cheese. Stir occasionally until tortellini is tender and cream cheese is melted.
- Add Spinach (Optional) – If using spinach, stir it in during the last 10 minutes until wilted.
- Season & Serve – Stir everything together, season with salt and pepper, and serve warm.
Notes
- Spicy Kick – Use hot Italian sausage and add red pepper flakes.
- Vegetarian Option – Swap sausage for mushrooms or plant-based sausage.
- Extra Creamy – Add heavy cream or shredded cheese for extra richness.
- Storage – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Freeze for up to 2 months (tortellini may soften).
- Reheating – Warm in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-6 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)
- Category: Dinner, Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Italian-American