Slow Cooker Creamy Tortellini Soup Recipe
This Slow Cooker Creamy Tortellini Soup is a rich, comforting dish filled with cheese tortellini, vegetables, and a creamy broth. It’s a perfect meal for chilly nights, and best of all, it’s incredibly easy to make in the slow cooker! With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a delicious, creamy soup that’s sure to satisfy the whole family.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb frozen cheese tortellini (you can also use fresh, if preferred)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt, or to taste
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra richness)
- Fresh spinach (optional, for added greens – about 2-3 cups)
Instructions:
1. Add Ingredients to the Slow Cooker:
- Start by placing the frozen tortellini, diced onion, minced garlic, diced carrots, diced celery, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth into the slow cooker.
- Season with basil, oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir everything together.
2. Cook the Soup:
- Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to cook on low for 5-6 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The soup is ready once the vegetables are tender and the tortellini is cooked through. (The frozen tortellini will cook during this time, so there’s no need to pre-cook it!)
3. Add the Cream:
- About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version) and Parmesan cheese (if using). This will give the soup a rich and creamy texture.
- If you’re using fresh spinach, stir it in at this point as well. Let the soup cook for the remaining time, or until the spinach wilts and the soup is hot.
4. Taste and Adjust Seasoning:
- Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasonings as necessary. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or herbs depending on your preference.
5. Serve:
- Ladle the creamy tortellini soup into bowls and serve with some crusty bread or a light salad on the side. You can also sprinkle some extra Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
- Crusty Bread: Serve this soup with some garlic bread or a fresh baguette to soak up the creamy broth.
- Green Salad: A simple side salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette pairs perfectly with the richness of this soup.
- Additional Toppings: Top each bowl with extra Parmesan cheese, cracked black pepper, or fresh herbs like basil or parsley for extra flavor.
Storage:
- Refrigeration: Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
- Freezing: This soup freezes well, though the tortellini may soften slightly after being frozen. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Comforting and Hearty: This soup is creamy and packed with flavor, perfect for cozy dinners.
- Easy and Hands-Off: Simply toss everything into the slow cooker and let it do the work for you.
- Customizable: You can easily add other vegetables, use a different type of tortellini, or make it vegetarian by using vegetable broth.
- Family-Friendly: With the creamy broth and cheese-filled tortellini, it’s a dish that both kids and adults will love.
Tips for Success:
- Use frozen tortellini: Frozen tortellini works great for this recipe because it holds its shape well in the slow cooker and absorbs the flavors of the soup.
- Don’t overcook: Be sure not to cook the soup too long, as the tortellini can become mushy. Stick to the recommended cook times and check the tortellini after the minimum cook time.
- Cream Alternatives: If you want to make this soup lighter, you can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream, or even use milk for a lighter version (though it won’t be as rich).
This Slow Cooker Creamy Tortellini Soup is an incredibly easy and satisfying meal. The combination of tender vegetables, creamy broth, and cheesy tortellini makes for a bowl of comfort that’s perfect for busy days or cozy family dinners. Enjoy!
