Looking for a warm, comforting meal that practically cooks itself? Look no further than this Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage recipe! With just a few simple ingredients and a little patience, you’ll have a delicious, satisfying dish that everyone will love. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, this dish combines the rich flavors of Italian sausage, a savory marinara sauce, and tender cheese-filled tortellini. It’s one of those meals that you’ll find yourself making over and over again.
What’s in Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage?
Italian Sausage: The main protein in this dish, Italian sausage gives the recipe its hearty flavor. You can choose between mild or spicy sausage, depending on your personal taste preference. The sausage brings a depth of flavor that truly elevates the entire dish.
Onion: Diced onions add a sweet and savory base to the dish. When sautéed, they become tender and fragrant, adding an essential layer of flavor to the sauce.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic takes this dish to the next level with its irresistible aroma. Garlic is a key ingredient for creating that comforting, homemade flavor in the sauce.
Marinara Sauce: A rich, tangy tomato sauce provides a base that pulls everything together. You can use your favorite store-bought brand, or even try making your own marinara sauce for a personalized touch.
Chicken Broth: The addition of chicken broth adds savory depth to the sauce and helps ensure that the tortellini cook perfectly in a flavorful, bubbling liquid.
Cheese Tortellini: These delicious pasta pockets, filled with creamy cheese, bring an indulgent texture and a satisfying bite. Whether you choose fresh or frozen, both will work beautifully in this dish.
Italian Seasoning: A perfect blend of dried herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme, Italian seasoning delivers authentic Italian flavor in every spoonful.
Salt and Pepper: These simple seasonings bring everything together, allowing the other flavors to shine. Adjust the salt and pepper to your preference.
Parmesan Cheese: A finishing touch of grated Parmesan cheese stirred into the sauce right before serving creates a creamy, cheesy finish that’s simply irresistible.
Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley adds a pop of green and a fresh, herbal note to balance the richness of the dish.
Is Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage Good for You?
Absolutely! While this dish is comfort food at its finest, it can also be part of a balanced meal. Here’s a breakdown of the health benefits of the key ingredients:
- Italian Sausage: While high in protein, Italian sausage can be fatty. Opt for leaner sausage varieties if you’re watching your fat intake.
- Onion and Garlic: These superfoods are loaded with antioxidants and are great for heart health and immune support.
- Cheese Tortellini: Provides a source of carbs for energy, but if you’re reducing your carb intake, try using whole wheat or even zucchini noodles as a healthier alternative.
- Parmesan Cheese: Adds a burst of calcium and flavor, but remember, a little goes a long way!
This dish can be customized to suit dietary needs, and it offers a balanced mix of protein, carbs, and healthy fats when prepared with a mindful approach.
The Ingredients
- 1 pound Italian sausage
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 24 ounces marinara sauce
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 pound cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
This recipe serves about 6 people, making it a great choice for family dinners or meal prep for the week.
How to Make Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage
- Brown the Sausage: Start by browning the Italian sausage in a skillet over medium heat. Break it up into crumbles as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat and transfer it to the crockpot.
- Sauté the Onion and Garlic: In the same skillet, sauté the diced onion for about 5 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Then, transfer this aromatic mixture to the crockpot.
- Combine the Sauces and Broth: Pour in the marinara sauce and chicken broth, stirring to combine the sausage, onion, and garlic.
- Add the Tortellini: Toss in the cheese tortellini and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to your taste, making sure the tortellini are completely submerged in the flavorful sauce.
- Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours until the tortellini are perfectly tender.
- Stir in Parmesan: Right before serving, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce and add a creamy richness.
- Serve and Garnish: Serve hot and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Serving Suggestions for Extra Yum!
To elevate the meal, pair this dish with buttery garlic bread—perfect for dipping into the flavorful sauce. For a lighter option, serve alongside a simple green salad dressed with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Want a bit more veggie goodness? Consider adding some fresh spinach or bell peppers during the cooking process for an extra health boost.
Conclusion
If you’re craving a warm, comforting, and flavorful dish, Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage is the perfect choice! It’s easy to make, and the slow cooker does most of the work for you. Plus, the flavors meld together beautifully for a meal that’s hearty and satisfying. Give this recipe a try and let it become a staple in your kitchen!
Happy cooking!
