Step 1: Prepare the Sausage
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage until browned and fully cooked. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to break it into small crumbles as it cooks.
- Once cooked, transfer the sausage to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess grease.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
- In the same skillet (using the sausage drippings if desired), sauté the diced onion for 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot
- In your crockpot, combine the cooked sausage, sautéed onions and garlic, chicken broth, diced tomatoes (with their juices), basil, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), and a pinch of salt and black pepper.
- Stir well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 4: Slow Cook
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 5: Add the Tortellini and Greens
- About 30 minutes before serving, add the tortellini to the crockpot. Stir to submerge them in the broth.
- Add the chopped spinach or kale at the same time. The greens will wilt perfectly as the tortellini cooks.
Step 6: Finish with Cream and Cheese
- Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Allow the soup to cook for an additional 5–10 minutes, until the cheese melts and the broth is creamy.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Serving Suggestions:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped parsley or basil.
- Serve with crusty bread or garlic toast for dipping, or a side salad for a complete meal.
Tips for Success:
- Sausage Choice: Use your favorite Italian sausage—mild, spicy, or even chicken sausage for a leaner option.
- Tortellini Options: Cheese tortellini is a classic choice, but feel free to experiment with meat- or spinach-filled tortellini for variety.
- Make It Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk or a non-dairy creamer instead of heavy cream and skip the Parmesan for a dairy-free version.
- Prep Ahead: You can brown the sausage and sauté the onions the night before to save time in the morning.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
This crockpot sausage tortellini soup is not just a meal—it’s an experience of warmth and comfort. The slow-cooked flavors make it taste like you’ve spent hours in the kitchen, even though the crockpot does all the work. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your household.
So grab your crockpot, gather your ingredients, and prepare to enjoy a bowl of creamy, savory goodness that will have everyone asking for seconds!
