Crockpot cheese tortellini and sausage is the ultimate comfort food that is sure to warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds. Imagine a creamy, savory dish bubbling away in your slow cooker, filling your home with irresistible aromas while you go about your day. This recipe combines tender cheese tortellini with savory Italian sausage, fresh spinach, and a rich, creamy sauce that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or simply seeking a cozy meal after a long day, this dish delivers on all fronts.

Why you’ll love this dish

What makes this recipe truly special is its simplicity and robust flavor. The combination of ingredients offers a delightful blend of textures and tastes, making it a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults. With just a few minutes of prep time and minimal hands-on cooking, you can return home to a ready-made meal that feels indulgent yet is affordable enough for weeknight dinners.

“This was the perfect dish for our family dinner! The flavors blended beautifully, and it was loved by everyone—definitely a keeper!”

How this recipe comes together

The process to create this comforting dish is as straightforward as it is rewarding. Start by browning the sausage for a depth of flavor, then let the crockpot do the magic. In no time at all, you’ll have a creamy, cheesy meal that feels like a hug in a bowl. Here’s a quick breakdown of the steps involved:

Brown the sausage in a skillet.
Combine ingredients in the crockpot.
Cook low and slow for a few hours.
Add the tortellini and spinach towards the end of the cooking.

What you’ll need

Gathering your ingredients couldn’t be easier with this recipe. Here’s what you’ll need to create your mouthwatering crockpot dish:

1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
1 (19 oz) package frozen cheese tortellini
4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 (28 oz) can diced tomatoes (undrained)
1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, cubed
4 cups chicken broth
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to customize this recipe! If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can substitute turkey sausage or even a plant-based sausage. The frozen tortellini can also often be replaced with fresh, just keep an eye on the cooking time.

Step-by-step instructions

Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of preparing this delightful meal. Follow these steps for a creamy, cheesy bliss:

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat and set aside.
In your crockpot, combine the browned sausage, diced tomatoes (with their juice), minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and chicken broth. Stir everything together.
Scatter the cubed cream cheese over the mixture in the crockpot. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the cream cheese has melted.
In the last 30 minutes of cooking, add the frozen cheese tortellini and fresh spinach to the crockpot. Stir well to incorporate everything.
Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Ladle the creamy mixture into bowls and serve warm. Enjoy it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Best ways to enjoy it

This dish is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving suggestions. Here are some creative ideas to enhance your dining experience:

Pair it with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad for a refreshing contrast.
Add a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra layer of flavor.
For a bit of crunch, serve with toasted pine nuts or crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.

Storage and reheating tips

If you find yourself with leftovers (which is likely, because it serves many), storing them properly is key to maintaining flavor:

Allow the dish to cool before transferring it to an airtight container.
It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth to retain creaminess.
To freeze, portion out leftovers in freezer-safe containers. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Helpful cooking tips

To elevate your dish even more, consider these easy cooking tips:

Don’t rush the browning of the sausage; this step develops a rich flavor that enhances the entire dish.
Incorporate various vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
If you’re in a crunch for time, ready-to-use tortellini from the grocery store can save you a step without sacrificing taste.

Recipe variations

Feeling adventurous? Here are some creative twists you can try with this comforting dish:

Swap out the Italian sausage for chorizo for a spicy kick.
Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian option.
Experiment with different types of cheese tortellini, like spinach or mushroom flavors.

Your questions answered

How long does it take to prepare? Prep time is around 10 minutes, and cooking time is 4-5 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high.
Can I substitute the cream cheese? Yes! Cream cheese can be replaced with sour cream or a blended cashew cream for a dairy-free version.
What’s the best way to store leftovers? Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

This crockpot cheese tortellini and sausage dish is not just a recipe; it’s a comforting tradition waiting to happen. Gather your loved ones, whip up this hearty meal, and enjoy every creamy bite. Happy cooking!

Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage

A comforting crockpot dish combining cheese tortellini, Italian sausage, fresh spinach, and a creamy sauce, perfect for family dinners and easy weeknight meals.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 5

Total Time 5 10

Course Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine Italian

Servings 6 servings

Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients

Main ingredients

1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy) Choose according to your preference
1 19 oz package frozen cheese tortellini Can be replaced with fresh tortellini, adjust cooking time.
4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 28 oz can diced tomatoes (undrained)
1 8 oz block cream cheese, cubed Can substitute with sour cream or cashew cream for a dairy-free option.
4 cups chicken broth Can use vegetable broth for vegetarian option.
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Preparation

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat and set aside.
In your crockpot, combine the browned sausage, diced tomatoes (with their juice), minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and chicken broth. Stir everything together.
Scatter the cubed cream cheese over the mixture in the crockpot. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the cream cheese has melted.
In the last 30 minutes of cooking, add the frozen cheese tortellini and fresh spinach to the crockpot. Stir well to incorporate everything.
Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Ladle the creamy mixture into bowls and serve warm.