Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this incredibly easy and delicious creamy crock pot tortellini recipe. It’s rich, savory, and perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy), or ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 (8 ounce) block cream cheese, softened and cut into cubes
- 1–2 lbs fresh or frozen tortellini (cheese, spinach, or meat)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish, optional)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving, optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Brown the Protein & Aromatics. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add Italian sausage or ground beef and cook, breaking it up, until browned. Drain any grease. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté for 3-5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Step 2: Combine Base in Crock Pot. Transfer the cooked mixture to your slow cooker. Stir in the undrained diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and Italian seasoning.
- Step 3: Slow Cook. Cover and cook on LOW for 3-4 hours or on HIGH for 1.5-2 hours, allowing flavors to meld.
- Step 4: Add Dairy & Tortellini. Stir in the cubed cream cheese until fully melted and smooth. Add the tortellini (fresh or frozen) and heavy cream, stirring gently to submerge the pasta.
- Step 5: Finish Cooking & Serve. Cover and continue to cook on LOW for 15-30 minutes, or until the tortellini is tender (fresh cooks faster than frozen). Stir well, taste, and season with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh herbs and Parmesan, if desired, and serve immediately.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 3.5-4 hours (low) or 1.5-2 hours (high)