There’s something magical about a warm bowl of Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage. The rich, creamy sauce envelops the tender tortellini while the savory sausage adds depth and flavor. savory sausage dishes It’s like a cozy hug on a chilly evening or the perfect dish for a family gathering that guarantees happy faces, full bellies, and maybe even an encore. creamy cheese sauces. For more inspiration, check out this sticky honey chicken recipe recipe.
I remember the first time I made this dish. My kids were skeptical as they peered into the crockpot, but once they tasted that cheesy goodness, they transformed into little pasta enthusiasts. Now we make it at least once a month! It’s an easy recipe that brings everyone together—perfect for game nights or those lazy Sunday afternoons when you want something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen. hearty crock pot meals.
[info_box title=”Why You’ll Love This Recipe”] This Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage is incredibly easy to prepare, making dinner a breeze. The flavor is a delightful blend of cheesy richness and savory sausage. Its vibrant colors make it visually appealing and a hit at any dinner table. This dish is versatile enough for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings with friends and family.[/info_box]
I still chuckle when my husband declares it “the best meal ever,” which he claims every time I make this dish.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Tortellini: Use fresh or frozen cheese tortellini for the best texture; both options work well in slow cooking.
Sausage: Italian sausage adds incredible flavor. Choose sweet or spicy based on your taste preferences.
Cream Cheese: This creamy delight gives the sauce its luscious texture; opt for full-fat cream cheese for ultimate richness.
Marinara Sauce: A good quality marinara elevates the flavors; homemade or store-bought works beautifully here.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic enhances the aroma and taste; never underestimate its magical properties in cooking.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan on top adds an irresistible finishing touch; it melts beautifully over the tortellini.
Spinach (optional): Adding spinach boosts nutrition and color; you can use fresh or frozen spinach if you like.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare the Ingredients: Gather all your ingredients before starting to ensure smooth sailing. Chop your garlic and crumble the sausage into bite-sized pieces.
Brown the Sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, brown your sausage until it’s nicely cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. You want that lovely golden color to develop!
Add Ingredients to Crockpot: Transfer your browned sausage into the crockpot. Add tortellini, marinara sauce, cream cheese, garlic, and spinach if using. Stir until everything is well mixed.
Cook It Up: Set your crockpot on low for 4 hours or high for 2 hours. The smell will be heavenly! You’ll know it’s ready when everything is bubbling away nicely.
Add Parmesan Cheese: About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle freshly grated parmesan cheese over your dish. Let it melt into that gorgeous cheesy goodness.
Serve and Enjoy: Ladle generous portions into bowls and watch everyone dig in with eager forks! Don’t forget to add more parmesan on top if desired—it’s worth it!
This Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage is not just a meal; it’s an experience of love served in a bowl! For more inspiration, check out this cheesy mushroom chicken alfredo recipe.
[info_box title=”You Must Know”] This delightful Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage recipe combines rich flavors with minimal effort, perfect for busy weeknights. The creamy sauce and tender tortellini make every bite a comforting experience, offering a warm hug in a bowl. Ideal for family gatherings or cozy nights in.[/info_box]
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the sausage in the crockpot before adding other ingredients. This enhances flavor while warming up the pot for cooking the cheese tortellini perfectly.
Add Your Touch
Consider adding veggies like spinach or bell peppers to boost nutrition and color. chicken and cheese combinations You can also swap sausage for chicken or turkey for a leaner option.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed.
[info_box title=”Chef’s Helpful Tips”] For an extra layer of flavor, try using different types of cheese like parmesan or mozzarella. Avoid overcooking the tortellini to keep them tender. Season generously with salt and pepper to enhance all flavors beautifully.[/info_box]
Cooking this dish reminds me of a chilly winter evening when my friends gathered around my table, savoring every cheesy bite while sharing laughter and stories. It became an instant favorite!
FAQ
Can I use frozen tortellini for this recipe?
Yes, frozen tortellini works well; just adjust cooking time as needed.
What type of sausage is best for this dish?
Italian sausage adds great flavor, but feel free to use your favorite variety.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute sausage with plant-based options and add more vegetables.
Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage
Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage is a deliciously creamy, cheesy dish that brings comfort to any table. This one-pot wonder combines tender cheese tortellini and savory Italian sausage, enveloped in a rich marinara sauce with cream cheese to create a warm hug in a bowl. Perfect for family gatherings, game nights, or lazy Sundays, this easy-to-make recipe guarantees happy faces and satisfied appetites every time.
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh or frozen cheese tortellini
- 1 pound Italian sausage (sweet or spicy)
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach (optional)
Instructions
- Brown the sausage in a skillet over medium heat for 5–7 minutes until golden.
- In the crockpot, combine browned sausage, tortellini, marinara sauce, cream cheese, garlic, and spinach. Stir well.
- Cook on low for 4 hours or high for 2 hours until bubbling.
- About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top and let it melt.
- Serve in bowls and enjoy!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 490
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: - For extra nutrition, add bell peppers or zucchini along with the spinach. - Substitute sausage with chicken or turkey for a leaner option. - Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat gently.
