Warm and hearty, this Crockpot tortellini soup with sausage is a crowd-pleaser. Made with flavorful Italian sausage, tender cheese-filled tortellini, and a rich tomato-based broth, this soup is a comforting dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prepping. Packed with nutritious vegetables like carrots, celery, and spinach, it’s a balanced and satisfying choice. Whether you’re planning a cozy family meal or looking for a convenient slow-cooker recipe, this soup delivers both taste and simplicity.

Ingredients

16 ounces Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casing removed if needed)
1/2 medium onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 medium carrots, sliced or finely chopped
2 sticks celery, finely chopped
1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
1 (14-ounce) can diced tomatoes with juices
4 cups chicken broth
2 (9-ounce) packages refrigerated cheese tortellini
3/4 cup heavy cream (optional)
2 cups fresh baby spinach, packed
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Sausage and Onion
Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage and onion, cooking for 7-8 minutes while breaking the sausage into small pieces with a spoon. Cook until browned, and if needed, drain any excess fat.
Add Garlic
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant. Transfer the sausage mixture to your Crockpot.
Assemble the Soup Base
Add the carrots, celery, crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes (with juices), and chicken broth to the Crockpot.
- For quicker cooking (3-4 hours on high), finely chop the carrots and celery.
- For slower cooking (7-8 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high), larger pieces are fine.
Add Final Ingredients
About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the cheese tortellini, heavy cream (if using), and spinach. Turn the Crockpot to high and stir occasionally until the tortellini is cooked and the spinach is wilted.
Season and Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot and enjoy immediately.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This tortellini soup combines rich Italian sausage with creamy broth and tender pasta for a comforting, satisfying meal. The slow-cooked vegetables add depth to the flavor, while the addition of fresh spinach and creamy tortellini creates a perfect balance of textures.

Tips

Brown the sausage before adding it to the Crockpot to lock in flavor and reduce excess fat.
Use freshly grated Parmesan as a garnish for extra richness.
If you’re short on time, use frozen chopped vegetables to streamline the prep process.

Variations and Substitutions

Sausage Options: Swap Italian sausage for turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter version.
Dairy-Free: Omit the heavy cream or substitute with coconut cream for a non-dairy alternative.
Vegetables: Add zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms for more variety.
Tortellini: Experiment with spinach or mushroom-filled tortellini for a twist.

FAQs

Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, but it’s best to freeze it without the tortellini. Add fresh tortellini when reheating to maintain texture.

What if I don’t have fresh spinach?
You can use frozen spinach—just thaw and drain it before adding it to the soup.

Can I make this soup on the stovetop instead?
Absolutely. Simmer the soup on low heat for about 30-40 minutes after adding the broth, then follow the instructions for adding the tortellini and spinach.

Serving and Suggestions

Serve this Crockpot tortellini soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. Sprinkle grated Parmesan or a touch of red pepper flakes on top for added flavor. It’s a cozy dish perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or feeding a crowd.