If you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal that practically cooks itself, then this Creamy Crockpot Tortellini with Sausage and Spinach Recipe is exactly what you need in your dinner rotation. Imagine tender cheese tortellini simmered gently in a luscious, creamy tomato sauce, studded with flavorful Italian sausage and bright, fresh spinach. This dish combines simplicity with incredible depth of flavor, thanks to a handful of fresh and pantry-friendly ingredients that transform into a satisfying dinner after just a few hours in your crockpot. Whether you’re whipping up a busy weeknight meal or feeding a crowd, this recipe is a warm hug in a bowl you’ll want to revisit again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is the first step to that perfect creamy, cozy dish. Each item brings something unique, from rich creaminess and savory sausage to vibrant greens and aromatic herbs, making it a complete comfort meal.
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy): Choose your favorite for a balanced, flavorful protein base that adds just the right amount of spice or mildness.
- 1 (19 oz) package refrigerated cheese tortellini: The star pasta, filled with cheese, providing the soft, pillowy texture that soaks up the sauce beautifully.
- 3 cups fresh spinach: Adds a pop of green color and a healthy dose of vitamins, brightening the dish pleasantly.
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes: A rich, tangy foundation layer that blends perfectly with the creamy elements.
- 4 cups chicken broth: Builds depth in the sauce and keeps everything moist as it slow cooks.
- 1 cup heavy cream: This is what makes the sauce irresistibly creamy and smooth.
- 1 small onion, diced: Adds natural sweetness and a subtle crunch when cooked down.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: Fresh garlic infuses the whole dish with warmth and complexity.
- 1 tsp dried basil: Brings a mild herbal note that complements the tomatoes and sausage.
- 1 tsp dried oregano: A classic Italian seasoning that rounds out the overall flavor profile.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance every ingredient’s natural flavors.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional): Sprinkled on top for a sharp, salty finish that’s pure indulgence.
How to Make Creamy Crockpot Tortellini with Sausage and Spinach Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Sausage and Aromatics
Start by browning the Italian sausage in a skillet over medium heat until it’s nicely browned and crumbly. This step is key because it develops deep, savory flavors and renders out some fat that will enrich the sauce. Once browned, transfer the sausage to your crockpot. In the same skillet, sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until they are fragrant and translucent — this softens the onion and mellows out the garlic to meld perfectly in the slow cooker.
Step 2: Combine All Ingredients in the Crockpot
Into the slow cooker, add the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir these ingredients well to combine all the flavors. The chicken broth and tomatoes create a flavorful and slightly tangy base, while the herbs add that classic Italian aroma that will fill your kitchen and your soul with comfort.
Step 3: Slow Cook the Sauce
Cover your crockpot and set it to cook on low for about 4 hours. This slow simmer allows the sausage, tomatoes, and herbs to marry beautifully. The flavors deepen over time, producing a rich and hearty sauce. Resist the temptation to rush this step because it’s where the magic happens.
Step 4: Add the Tortellini and Spinach
After the initial slow cooking, stir in the refrigerated cheese tortellini and fresh spinach. The tortellini will absorb some of the sauce and soften perfectly without turning mushy, while the spinach offers a fresh, slightly earthy contrast that balances the richness. Continue cooking on low for another 30-45 minutes, or until the tortellini is tender and the spinach has wilted just right.
Step 5: Finish with Cream and Parmesan
About 10 minutes before serving, pour in the heavy cream and stir everything together to create that signature creamy texture. If you love Parmesan as much as I do, sprinkle in the grated cheese and gently mix it in for a luscious, cheesy finish. Turn off the crockpot and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This final step transforms the dish into the dreamy Creamy Crockpot Tortellini with Sausage and Spinach Recipe you can’t wait to dive into.
How to Serve Creamy Crockpot Tortellini with Sausage and Spinach Recipe
Garnishes
Serving this dish with a little extra flair is so enjoyable. Freshly chopped basil or parsley sprinkled on top adds an herby brightness that contrasts the creamy sauce beautifully. You can also offer a drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a few Parmesan shavings for that elegant touch. If you want a touch of heat, red pepper flakes work wonders to lift the flavor.
Side Dishes
This creamy, saucy meal pairs wonderfully with simple sides. A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness perfectly. Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread is ideal for soaking up every last lick of sauce. For a veggie-packed option, roasted asparagus or sautéed green beans make great companions without overwhelming the palate.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling fancy? Serve the Creamy Crockpot Tortellini with Sausage and Spinach Recipe in individual rustic bowls, topped with a sprig of fresh herbs and a sprinkle of Parmesan. For a family-style approach, present it in a large, colorful ceramic dish that invites everyone to dig in together. Adding a side of lemon wedges lets guests brighten up their bowls just how they like it, adding a citrusy zing that complements the creamy sauce.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers are a gift with this dish because it tastes just as good, if not better, the next day. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce thickens beautifully overnight, so you might want to loosen it with a splash of broth or cream when reheating.
Freezing
If you want to freeze this delicious Creamy Crockpot Tortellini with Sausage and Spinach Recipe, do so before adding the cream and tortellini. Freeze the sauce and sausage mixture in a sealed container for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight, then add fresh tortellini, spinach, and cream before cooking to keep the textures perfect.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a little chicken broth or cream if the sauce feels too thick. Avoid microwave reheating if possible to prevent uneven warming, but if you must, do it in short bursts, stirring in between.
FAQs
Can I use frozen tortellini instead of refrigerated?
Yes, frozen tortellini can be used, but be mindful it might require a slightly longer cooking time to become tender. Add it with the spinach as instructed and monitor texture to avoid overcooking.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace the Italian sausage with your favorite plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms for a meaty texture and rich flavor. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep it vegetarian.
Can I prepare this recipe in an Instant Pot instead of a crockpot?
Yes, the Instant Pot is a great alternative. Brown the sausage and sauté the aromatics using the sauté function, then add the rest of the ingredients (except tortellini and spinach). Cook on high pressure for about 10 minutes, release pressure, then stir in tortellini and spinach and use the sauté setting until they’re cooked through. Finish with cream and Parmesan off heat.
What if I don’t have heavy cream on hand?
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch to help thicken the sauce. Keep in mind the texture will be a bit lighter but still delicious.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Definitely! Vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms can be added along with the tomatoes and broth at the start to roast slowly and deepen the flavor. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces so they cook evenly.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Crockpot Tortellini with Sausage and Spinach Recipe is one of those magical meals that feels like a special occasion but comes together with minimal effort. Its rich, comforting flavors paired with tender pasta and vibrant greens make it a dependable crowd-pleaser for any time of year. Give this recipe a try, and I promise it will quickly become a beloved go-to in your kitchen that warms more than just your belly.
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Creamy Crockpot Tortellini with Sausage and Spinach Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Crockpot Creamy Tortellini recipe is a comforting and flavorful one-pot meal perfect for busy weeknights. Tender Italian sausage simmers with crushed tomatoes, garlic, and herbs, creating a rich sauce that melds beautifully with cheesy tortellini and fresh spinach. Finished with heavy cream and Parmesan, this dish offers a creamy, hearty dinner with minimal hands-on time, all cooked conveniently in your slow cooker.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy), crumbled
- 1 (19 oz) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 3 cups fresh spinach
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, crumble and brown the Italian sausage until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat and transfer the sausage into the crockpot.
- Add aromatics and liquids: To the crockpot, add the diced onion, minced garlic, crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together to combine.
- Cook in crockpot: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4 hours or on high for 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the onions to soften.
- Add tortellini and spinach: After the initial cooking time, add the refrigerated cheese tortellini and fresh spinach to the crockpot. Stir gently to distribute.
- Cook until tortellini is tender: Continue cooking for another 20 to 30 minutes on low, or until the tortellini is cooked through and the spinach has wilted.
- Finish with cream and cheese: Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese (if using). Let it cook for an additional 5 minutes uncovered to warm through and thicken slightly.
- Adjust seasoning and serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve the creamy tortellini hot directly from the crockpot.
Notes
- You can substitute sausage with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the sausage and use vegetable broth.
- If you prefer less creamy texture, reduce the heavy cream to 1/2 cup or omit Parmesan.
- This recipe can be prepared a day ahead and reheated; flavors improve with resting time.
- Make sure not to overcook the tortellini, as it can become mushy in the slow cooker.
