Step 1: Brown the Sausage
- Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the Italian sausage. Use a spatula to break it apart into smaller pieces as it cooks. Once the sausage is browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes), drain any excess fat, and transfer it to the crockpot.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
- Combine the Sauces: To the crockpot with the sausage, add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, and chicken broth. Stir everything together to combine.
- Season: Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until the ingredients are evenly distributed. The sauce should be thick and flavorful at this point.
Step 3: Slow Cook the Mixture
- Set the Crockpot: Cover the crockpot and set it on low heat for 4-6 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours. This allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken up. You’ll want to check the sauce about halfway through cooking to make sure it’s not too thick. If it is, add a bit more chicken broth or water to loosen it.
Step 4: Add the Tortellini
- Add the Tortellini: About 30 minutes before you plan to serve the dish, stir in the cheese tortellini (whether fresh or frozen). Make sure the tortellini is fully covered by the sauce. Allow it to cook on low for an additional 20-30 minutes until the tortellini is tender and cooked through.
Step 5: Add the Cream
- Stir in the Cream: Once the tortellini is ready, stir in the heavy cream for added creaminess. The cream will give the sauce a smooth, velvety texture, making the dish even more indulgent. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed — you may want to add a little more salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning.
Step 6: Add Cheese
- Cheese Time: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the tortellini and sausage mixture. Give it a gentle stir to combine. The mozzarella will melt into the sauce, making it extra gooey and cheesy.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
- Garnish: Once everything is well-mixed and the cheese is melted, serve the dish hot. Top with freshly chopped basil or parsley, and sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top for an added touch of flavor.
- Serve: Serve your creamy Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. It’s also fantastic with a side of roasted vegetables or steamed broccoli.
Why You’ll Love Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage:
- Easy Prep: With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep, you can set this dish to cook and forget about it until dinnertime.
- Creamy and Comforting: The combination of the savory sausage, creamy sauce, and tender tortellini makes each bite incredibly satisfying.
- One-Pot Meal: Everything cooks together in the slow cooker, making cleanup a breeze.
- Customizable: You can adjust the ingredients based on your preferences. Add spinach for some greens, or switch out the Italian sausage for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Want to spice things up? Add some red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
- Family-Friendly: This dish is a crowd-pleaser, especially for families with picky eaters. The creamy sauce and cheesy tortellini are sure to be a hit with everyone.
Tips for Success:
- Frozen Tortellini: If you’re using frozen tortellini, don’t worry about thawing it — just add it directly to the crockpot when the recipe calls for it. It will cook perfectly in the sauce.
- Sausage Variations: You can use mild, spicy, or sweet Italian sausage depending on your preference. If you prefer a leaner option, turkey sausage works well too.
- Make it Even More Cheesy: For extra cheesy goodness, add an extra handful of mozzarella cheese at the end and let it melt into the sauce before serving.
Make-Ahead and Storage:
- Make-Ahead: This recipe can be prepared the night before. Simply assemble everything in the crockpot insert, cover it, and store it in the fridge. In the morning, just pop it into the crockpot and cook as directed.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce becomes too thick.
- Freezing: This recipe freezes well! You can freeze the fully cooked dish for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Conclusion:
Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage is the ultimate comforting meal that combines rich, creamy flavors with savory sausage and tender cheese tortellini. It’s simple to prepare, perfect for busy days, and guaranteed to satisfy your cravings for a hearty and filling dish. Whether you’re serving it to family, friends, or just treating yourself to a delicious dinner, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your regular rotation.
Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness — and don’t forget the crusty bread to mop up all that tasty sauce!