Crockpot Sausage and Tortellini Soup

Winter is the perfect time to cozy up with a warm, comforting bowl of soup, and this Crockpot Sausage and Tortellini Soup is just what you need. Rich, hearty, and packed with flavor, it’s the kind of meal that fills your kitchen with amazing aromas and makes everyone gather around the table. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make—just throw everything in the crockpot and let it work its magic while you go about your day.

What makes this soup truly special is the combination of savory sausage and tender tortellini in a creamy, flavorful broth. The tortellini soaks up all the delicious seasonings, while the sausage adds a depth of flavor that makes every bite satisfying. This easy crockpot dinner is perfect for busy weekdays or a relaxed weekend meal when you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.

I love using my slow cooker for recipes like this because it lets the flavors develop slowly, resulting in a rich, hearty soup that tastes like it simmered all day. It’s one of those easy crockpot meals that feels indulgent without requiring a ton of effort. You can even customize it with your favorite vegetables or swap in chicken sausage for a lighter twist.

Whether you’re planning a fall dinner or looking for a cozy winter meal, this sausage tortellini soup is a winner. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread, a simple side salad, or even a sprinkle of parmesan on top. Best of all, it makes great leftovers, so you can enjoy it again the next day with almost no extra work.

Why You’ll Love It

• Effortless Comfort Food – This crockpot creamy tortellini soup practically makes itself. Toss in a few simple ingredients, set your slow cooker, and come back to a warm, hearty meal that feels homemade.
• Perfect for Busy Days – Whether it’s a hectic weekday or a busy weekend, this easy crockpot dinner frees you up from constant stove-sitting. You get a delicious meal without the stress.
• Hearty and Filling – With tender tortellini, flavorful sausage, and a rich, creamy broth, every spoonful is satisfying. It’s the kind of soup that doubles as a complete meal.
• Versatile and Customizable – Add extra veggies, swap in different sausages, or make it a little spicier—this easy crockpot tortellini soup adapts to your taste.
• Perfect Seasonal Meal – Ideal for fall dinners or cozy winter evenings, it’s the kind of soup that warms you from the inside out while filling your home with irresistible aromas.

Ingredient List

For the Soup Base

• 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a little kick)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Pasta

• 9 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)

Optional Add-Ins

• 2 cups baby spinach or kale
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, for topping

Ingredient Notes

• I always use Italian sausage from a local butcher for the best flavor—it makes a huge difference in this crockpot creamy tortellini soup.
• Don’t skip the garlic! It really elevates the sausage tortellini soup.
• Fresh tortellini works beautifully, but frozen is perfect if you’re short on time—it cooks right in the slow cooker.
• For extra richness, I love using heavy cream instead of milk—it makes the soup silky and indulgent.
• Spinach or kale is optional, but it adds a nice pop of color and extra nutrients—don’t be shy with it!

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Crockpot/Slow Cooker – The heart of this recipe; I love using my 6-quart slow cooker because it fits everything perfectly.
• Large Skillet – For browning the sausage and sautéing onions and garlic before adding to the crockpot.
• Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula – Great for stirring without scratching your pans.
• Measuring Cups & Spoons – Essential for getting the seasoning and broth just right.
• Knife & Cutting Board – For chopping onions, garlic, and any optional veggies.
• Ladle – Perfect for serving this hearty tortellini soup into bowls without mess.

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

• Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
• Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon.
• Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes.
• Pro Tip: Don’t rush this step—browning the sausage adds flavor depth to your tortellini soup.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

• In the same skillet, add the diced onion. Cook until translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
• Add minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
• Transfer the sausage, onions, and garlic to your crockpot.

Step 3: Add the Soup Base

• Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes.
• Stir in Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper.
• Mix everything well to combine.

Step 4: Cook in the Crockpot

• Cover and cook on low for 4–6 hours or high for 2–3 hours.
• The longer it simmers, the more the flavors develop—perfect for a cozy fall or winter dinner.

Step 5: Add the Tortellini and Cream

• About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the tortellini and heavy cream.
• Cover and cook until the tortellini is tender, usually 20–30 minutes.
• Pro Tip: Stir gently to prevent the tortellini from sticking together or breaking apart.

Step 6: Optional Veggies and Toppings

• If using spinach or kale, stir it in during the last 5 minutes of cooking until wilted.
• Serve hot with grated Parmesan on top for extra richness.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Don’t skip browning the sausage – It adds a deep, savory flavor that makes the soup irresistible.
• Use fresh tortellini if possible – It cooks faster and has a softer, pillowy texture, but frozen works fine too.
• Stir gently – Especially after adding the cream and tortellini to prevent the pasta from tearing.
• Season gradually – Taste as you go; sausage can be salty, so add extra salt at the end if needed.
• Let it rest before serving – Allowing the soup to sit for 5–10 minutes helps the flavors meld beautifully.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

• Sausage: Swap Italian sausage for chicken sausage, turkey sausage, or even crumbled tofu for a lighter or vegetarian option.
• Tortellini: Cheese tortellini works best, but meat or spinach-filled varieties are delicious too.
• Cream: For a lighter soup, use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream.
• Vegetables: Add zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Spice Level: Increase crushed red pepper flakes or use spicy sausage if you like a little heat in your easy crockpot tortellini soup.

Serving Suggestions

• I love serving this sausage tortellini soup with garlic bread and a crisp green salad—it balances the richness perfectly!
• Top with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a cozy, restaurant-style touch.
• Serve in bread bowls for a fun, comforting winter dinner that feels extra special.
• Pair with a light roasted vegetable side, like carrots or Brussels sprouts, to add some freshness.
• For a quick weeknight dinner, enjoy it with crackers or a soft dinner roll—perfect for dipping into the creamy broth.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
• Freeze: This soup freezes well for up to 2 months—leave out the cream until reheating if possible, then stir it in.
• Reheat on Stove: Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Add a splash of broth or cream if it’s too thick.
• Reheat in Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe bowls in 1-minute increments, stirring in between, until piping hot.
• Reheat Tortellini Carefully: If adding extra tortellini later, cook separately and stir in at the end to avoid overcooking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prep the ingredients the night before and keep them in the fridge. Just add the tortellini and cream when you’re ready to cook.

Can I use frozen tortellini?

Yes! Frozen tortellini works perfectly. Just add it a little earlier if your crockpot is on low so it cooks through without getting mushy.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Definitely! Swap the sausage for plant-based sausage or extra vegetables. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

How spicy is this soup?

It depends on the sausage and how much crushed red pepper you use. You can adjust the spice to your taste—leave it out entirely for a milder version.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes! Store the soup in airtight containers for up to 2 months. If possible, wait to add the cream until reheating for best texture.

Can I add extra veggies?

Absolutely! Zucchini, bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach all work well. Just add them toward the end of cooking so they stay tender but not overcooked.

Did you try this crockpot sausage and tortellini soup? Let me know in the comments how it turned out!