Description

This Crockpot Creamy Tortellini is a comforting, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings. It features tender cheese-filled tortellini simmered in a rich, creamy sauce with a blend of Italian seasonings, spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and a touch of garlic. The slow cooker does all the work, bringing out the flavors to create a luscious, cozy meal that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients

•1 package (20 oz) cheese tortellini (refrigerated or frozen)

•1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy), browned and crumbled

•4 cups baby spinach, roughly chopped

•1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with Italian herbs, undrained

•1 jar (7 oz) sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and chopped

•3 cups chicken broth

•1 cup heavy cream

•1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese

•1 tbsp minced garlic

•1 tsp Italian seasoning

•1 tsp salt

•½ tsp black pepper

•¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

•Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage until browned and crumbled. Drain any excess fat and set aside.

2. Add Ingredients to Crockpot: In a 6-quart crockpot, add the browned sausage, chicken broth, diced tomatoes with their juice, sun-dried tomatoes, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine.

3. Cook the Base: Cover and cook on LOW for 4-5 hours or HIGH for 2-3 hours until flavors are well blended and the sauce is fragrant.

4. Add Tortellini and Spinach: About 30 minutes before serving, add the cheese tortellini and spinach to the crockpot. Stir to combine, cover, and continue cooking on LOW for an additional 30 minutes or until tortellini is tender.

5. Finish with Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream and shredded Parmesan cheese, mixing well until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

6. Serve and Garnish: Serve warm, garnished with fresh basil or parsley. Enjoy the comforting, creamy goodness!

Notes

•Make It Meat-Free: Omit the sausage for a vegetarian version, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

•Spice It Up: For a spicy kick, use hot Italian sausage and increase the red pepper flakes.

•Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.

•Make Ahead: You can prepare the sausage and combine all ingredients (except the tortellini, spinach, cream, and cheese) in the crockpot the night before. Refrigerate and start cooking the next day.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 5 hours (on LOW)
Category: Main Course
Method: Crockpot / Slow Cooker
Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1.5 cups)
Calories: 520
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 1260mg
Fat: 34g
Saturated Fat: 16g
Unsaturated Fat: 13g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 36g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 21g
Cholesterol: 95mg