The aroma of simmering cheese tortellini mingled with savory sausage fills your kitchen, promising a delightful meal that warms both the heart and soul. delicious kielbasa and green beans Picture yourself sinking into a cozy chair, a bowl of this creamy goodness in hand, as you relish each bite of comfort.
Crockpot cheese tortellini and sausage brings back fond memories of family gatherings where laughter echoed around the dinner table. It’s the perfect dish for chilly evenings or busy weekdays when you crave something hearty yet easy to prepare. For more inspiration, check out this cheesy mushroom chicken alfredo lasagna recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This recipe is a breeze to prepare and requires minimal effort
- The rich flavors create an exciting flavor profile that everyone will enjoy
- Visually appealing with vibrant colors, it’s sure to impress your guests
- Versatile enough to customize with your favorite veggies or spices, it suits any palate
My friends couldn’t stop raving about this dish at my last dinner party; even the pickiest eater was asking for seconds.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Crockpot Cheese Tortellini: Opt for fresh or frozen tortellini; both work well and save time in preparation.
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Italian Sausage: Choose mild or spicy sausage based on your flavor preference; it adds depth to the dish.
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Marinara Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought sauce or homemade for an extra touch of love.
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Heavy Cream: This ingredient creates that luscious, creamy texture that makes each bite irresistible. sticky honey gochujang chicken creamy garlic chicken. You might also enjoy this sticky honey chicken recipe recipe.
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Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan enhances the flavor and adds a delightful finishing touch.
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Spinach: Fresh spinach not only boosts nutrition but also adds a pop of color and freshness.
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Garlic Powder: A sprinkle of garlic powder will elevate the flavors without overpowering the dish.
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Italian Seasoning: This blend enhances the overall taste profile; feel free to adjust according to your taste.
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Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; always taste before serving to ensure perfection.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Crockpot: Begin by setting your crockpot on low heat while you gather all ingredients. This allows it to warm up nicely for cooking.
Add the Sausage: Remove sausage from casings and crumble it into the crockpot. Cook until browned, stirring occasionally until golden brown and fragrant.
Pour in Marinara Sauce and Cream: Add marinara sauce followed by heavy cream to create a creamy base. Stir everything together until well combined, filling your kitchen with delicious smells.
Add Tortellini and Spinach: Gently fold in cheese tortellini and fresh spinach, ensuring they are coated with sauce. Watch as everything transforms into a colorful medley.
Season it Up!: Sprinkle garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper over the mixture. Stir again to distribute the flavors evenly throughout.
Cover and Cook Away!: Place the lid on your crockpot and let it cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours. Enjoy the mouthwatering aromas wafting through your home during cooking!
As you dive into this comforting bowl of crockpot cheese tortellini and sausage, remember that each spoonful holds warmth not just from its ingredients but from shared moments around the table. Whether you’re enjoying this dish solo while binge-watching your favorite show or sharing it with loved ones on game night, every bite is bound to bring smiles all around!
You Must Know
- This delightful crockpot cheese tortellini and sausage dish is not just easy; it’s a hug in a bowl
- The cheese-filled tortellini paired with savory sausage creates a comforting meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays
- The aromas will have everyone rushing to the dinner table!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the sausage in a skillet to enhance its flavor, then layer ingredients in your crockpot. This method ensures the best taste and texture for your dish.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the sausage for turkey or chicken for a lighter dish. broccoli chicken casserole You can also add spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water if necessary to maintain creaminess.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh ingredients whenever possible for maximum flavor impact
- Don’t skip browning the sausage—it adds depth to every bite
- For an extra creamy finish, stir in some cream cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking
There’s nothing like sharing this meal with friends and hearing them rave about it! One time, my buddy even asked if I could bottle up the smell—talk about a compliment!
FAQ
What kind of sausage works best for crockpot cheese tortellini and sausage?
Italian sausage adds great flavor, but feel free to use any preferred type.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute sausage with plant-based alternatives and use vegetable broth.
How long can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to three days in an airtight container.
Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender tortellini with savory Italian sausage in a creamy marinara sauce. This dish simmers to perfection in your slow cooker, infusing your home with mouthwatering aromas. Perfect for cozy evenings or busy weeknights, it’s a meal that brings family and friends together around the dinner table. Effortless to prepare, this hearty dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 12 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Crumble and brown the sausage in a skillet over medium heat until golden brown. Drain excess fat.
- In a crockpot, combine the browned sausage, marinara sauce, and heavy cream; stir well.
- Add cheese tortellini and spinach, gently folding to coat with sauce.
- Season with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper; stir until evenly combined.
- Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours until heated through.
- Serve warm topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4–5 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 375g)
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
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