Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage is a comforting, hearty dish that combines the rich flavors of cheese-filled tortellini, savory sausage, and a creamy tomato-based sauce. Preparing it in a slow cooker makes it an easy, hands-off meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.
Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage
Ingredients
- 1 Ib Italian sausage
- 1 package refrigerated or frozen cheese tortellini
- 24 oz jar marinara sauce
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 8 oz block cream cheese cubed
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 1/2 cup fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Brown the Sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned. Drain excess grease and transfer to the crockpot.
- Add Ingredients: Pour in marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well.
- Slow Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 4–6 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours.
- Add Tortellini & Cream Cheese: About 30 minutes before serving, add the cheese tortellini and cubed cream cheese. Stir to combine and cook until tortellini is tender.
- Finish & Serve: Stir in fresh spinach (if using) and let it wilt for about 5 minutes. Serve hot with Parmesan cheese on top.
Why You’ll Love Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage
Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage is the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and packed with flavor. It’s an effortless, one-pot meal that requires minimal prep, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
The slow cooker does all the work, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully while you go about your day.
The combination of cheesy tortellini and savory Italian sausage creates a hearty, satisfying dish that’s guaranteed to please the whole family. The creamy, tomato-based sauce is both indulgent and well-balanced, with just the right amount of seasoning.
Plus, it’s easy to customize—add spinach for a nutritious boost, switch up the sausage for a different flavor profile, or spice it up with red pepper flakes.
This dish is also perfect for meal prepping, as leftovers reheat beautifully. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a comforting, no-fuss dinner, Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage is a must-try.
Serve it with crusty garlic bread and a fresh salad for a complete meal that’s as easy as it is delicious. Once you try it, you’ll keep coming back to this simple yet irresistible recipe!
Tips and Serving Tricks for Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage
Below are expert tips and serving tricks to elevate this dish and make it even more delicious.
Tips for Making the Best Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage
1. Use Quality Sausage for Maximum Flavor
- Opt for Italian sausage (mild or spicy) for a more flavorful base. The seasoning in Italian sausage, like fennel, garlic, and red pepper, adds depth to the dish.
- Brown the sausage before adding it to the crockpot. This enhances the flavor by creating a rich, caramelized layer that infuses the sauce.
2. Don’t Overcook the Tortellini
- Add the tortellini toward the end of the cooking time (about 30 minutes before serving) to avoid mushy pasta.
- Frozen tortellini holds up better than fresh in the crockpot since it’s less likely to overcook and fall apart.
3. Balance the Sauce Consistency
- If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of chicken or vegetable broth to thin it out.
- For a creamier texture, stir in heavy cream, half-and-half, or cream cheese about 20 minutes before serving.
4. Enhance the Flavor Profile
- Add depth with garlic powder, onion powder, or Italian seasoning.
- A splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar can add a subtle tang that complements the richness of the dish.
- Stir in fresh spinach or kale at the end of cooking for a pop of color and a nutritional boost.
5. Cheese is Key
- Top the dish with freshly grated Parmesan or mozzarella just before serving. The cheese will melt into the sauce, adding a gooey, irresistible finish.
- For extra cheesiness, mix shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack into the sauce before serving.
Serving Tricks to Make It Shine
1. Garnish Like a Pro
- Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, basil, or grated Parmesan for a restaurant-quality look and taste.
- A sprinkle of red pepper flakes or cracked black pepper adds a hint of heat and visual appeal.
2. Pairing Suggestions
- Serve with crusty garlic bread or a side of buttery dinner rolls to soak up the rich sauce.
- A crisp Caesar salad or a simple mixed greens salad with a balsamic vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.
- For a heartier meal, serve alongside roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus.
3. Make It a Crowd-Pleaser
- Double the recipe to serve a larger crowd; this dish is easy to scale up.
- Use a warming setting on the crockpot to keep it hot during gatherings without overcooking the tortellini.
- Offer grated Parmesan, crushed red pepper, and extra garlic bread on the side so guests can customize their serving.
4. Leftover Magic
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to refresh the sauce.
- Use leftovers as a filling for stuffed peppers or mix them into a baked pasta casserole.
Tips to Make It Healthier:
- Use turkey or chicken sausage instead of pork to reduce fat and calories.
- Substitute light cream or half-and-half for heavy cream to reduce fat.
- Choose whole wheat tortellini for added fiber.
- Add more spinach or kale to increase fiber and vitamin content.
- Reduce sodium by using low-sodium broth and unsalted tomatoes.
Conclusion
Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage is a versatile, satisfying dish that’s easy to prepare and even easier to customize. By following these tips—like adding tortellini at the right time, balancing the sauce, and elevating the flavors with fresh herbs and cheese—you’ll create a crowd-pleasing meal every time. Serve with bread, salad, and extra cheese for the perfect comforting dinner!
