Crockpot Tortellini Soup is a wonderful, easy meal that brings together cheesy tortellini, hearty vegetables, and a tasty broth all simmered perfectly in a slow cooker. The soft pasta and melty cheese pieces make every spoonful feel like a warm hug on a chilly day.
I love how simple this soup is to put together — just toss everything into the crockpot and let it do all the work while you get on with your day. It’s one of those recipes I turn to when I want something satisfying without standing over the stove. Plus, the tortellini holds up well and stays pleasantly soft without getting mushy.
My favorite way to enjoy this soup is with a sprinkle of fresh Parmesan and a handful of crunchy garlic bread on the side. It’s the perfect combo for a cozy family dinner or a relaxed meal with friends. If you ever have leftovers, this soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors have even more time to come together.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Italian Sausage: This adds rich flavor and a bit of spice. If you prefer, you can swap it for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. For a vegetarian version, try plant-based sausage or skip it altogether.
Cheese Tortellini: Fresh refrigerated tortellini works best as it stays tender in the crockpot. If you only have frozen, add it towards the end of cooking to avoid overcooking. Cheese ravioli can be a fun substitute too.
Heavy Cream & Mozzarella: These give the soup its creamy texture and cheesy goodness. You can use half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter soup, but the texture won’t be as rich. Shredded mozzarella melts nicely without clumping.
Diced Tomatoes & Broth: Canned diced tomatoes add a light acidity that balances the richness. Chicken broth is classic, but vegetable broth works well for a milder flavor or vegetarian choice.
How Do You Prevent Tortellini from Getting Too Mushy in the Crockpot?
Because tortellini is delicate, it’s best to add it late in the cooking process. Here’s how to keep it perfect:
- Cook the soup base (sausage, broth, tomatoes, and seasonings) fully before adding tortellini.
- Add tortellini and cream about 30 minutes before serving.
- Cook on high for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally to keep the pasta from sticking.
- If the tortellini cooks too quickly, it can get mushy, so don’t add it too early.
This method lets the tortellini stay tender but firm enough to hold its shape.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Crockpot/Slow cooker – This lets you cook everything low and slow without watching the stove.
- Large skillet – For browning the sausage before adding it to the crockpot; adds flavor.
- Wooden spoon – Perfect for stirring the soup gently without scratching your crockpot.
- Measuring cups and spoons – To keep your broth, cream, and seasonings just right.
- Colander – Handy if you need to rinse or drain pasta or veggies.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap sausage for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter soup that’s still filling.
- Add spinach or kale at the end for a boost of green and fresh flavor that brightens the dish.
- Mix in sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy twist that deepens the tomato base.
- Use different cheeses like Parmesan or fontina for varied creamy tastes and textures.
Crockpot Tortellini Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground Italian sausage (mild or spicy based on preference)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (8 oz) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or dried parsley flakes (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and then slow cooks for 6 to 7 hours on low or 3 to 4 hours on high. Add 30 extra minutes at the end to cook the tortellini and finish the soup. Overall, count on about 7 hours if using low heat, or about 4 and a half hours if you’re cooking on high.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Sausage:
Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the ground Italian sausage until it’s nicely browned and cooked through, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain off any extra grease once done.
2. Combine Ingredients in Crockpot:
Transfer the cooked sausage into your crockpot. Add the diced onion and minced garlic on top. Pour in the chicken broth and the diced tomatoes along with their juice. Sprinkle in Italian seasoning, dried basil, salt, and pepper, then give everything a good stir.
3. Slow Cook the Soup Base:
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. This slow cooking helps the onions get soft and lets all the flavors blend beautifully.
4. Add Tortellini and Cream:
About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the refrigerated tortellini and the heavy cream. Cover and cook on high for 20 to 30 minutes until the tortellini is tender but still holds its shape.
5. Finish with Cheese and Seasoning:
Stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Taste your soup and add more salt or pepper if needed to suit your palate.
6. Serve and Garnish:
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh or dried parsley. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if you like, and enjoy it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a wholesome meal.
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini Instead of Refrigerated?
Yes, you can use frozen tortellini! Just add it during the last 30 minutes of cooking and keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking, as frozen pasta tends to cook faster than refrigerated.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the soup up to the point before adding tortellini and cream. Refrigerate for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat the soup, then add the tortellini, cream, and cheese and cook until the pasta is tender.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Tortellini may absorb some broth over time, so when reheating, you might want to add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up.
Can I Substitute the Sausage with Another Protein?
Yes! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based sausage alternatives work well. Just brown your chosen protein before adding it to the crockpot to develop flavor.
