Description
Delight in a comforting, one-pot meal that brings together savory Italian sausage, tender cheese tortellini, and a rich tomato-based sauce, all slow-cooked to perfection. This crockpot recipe infuses hearty flavors and melty cheese into every bite, making it an ideal dinner option for busy weeknights or a cozy family meal.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Sauce and Sausage:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy Casings removed, cut into 1-inch pieces)
- 1 medium Onion (diced)
- 3 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 28 oz can Crushed tomatoes (Preferably low-sodium)
- 1 cup Chicken broth (Low-sodium preferred)
- 2 tbsp Tomato paste
- 1 tsp Dried basil
- 1 tsp Dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp Red pepper flakes (Optional for a slight kick)
For the Tortellini and Finishing Touches:
- 1 lb Cheese tortellini (Fresh or refrigerated not frozen)
- 1 cup Heavy cream or half-and-half (For extra creaminess optional)
- 1 cup Shredded mozzarella cheese (Plus extra for garnish optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Crockpot Base:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the diced onion, minced garlic, crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and tomato paste. Stir in dried basil, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Transfer the sauce mixture into the crockpot.
Add the Sausage:
- Add the cut Italian sausage into the crockpot, stirring gently to combine with the tomato sauce.
- Cover and cook on low for about 2 hours, allowing the sausage to cook through and the flavors to meld.
Incorporate the Tortellini:
- After 2 hours, add the cheese tortellini to the crockpot. If using, stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half.
- Gently mix to coat the tortellini with the sauce.
- Cover and cook on high for an additional 30–45 minutes until the tortellini are tender (cooking times may vary by brand).
Finish and Serve:
- Once the tortellini are cooked, stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese until slightly melted.
- Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.
- Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley before serving.
- Serve hot, spooning generous portions into bowls.
Notes
- For a thicker sauce, you can remove the lid during the last 15 minutes of cooking to allow some liquid to evaporate.
- Ensure the cheese tortellini is not overcooked; add it during the final 45 minutes for the best texture.
- Feel free to substitute heavy cream with a lighter alternative for a lower-calorie version.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Enjoy your Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage—a hearty, flavorful, and comforting meal that’s effortless to prepare and sure to become a family favorite!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Calories: 450
