Slow Cooker Sausage Cheese Tortellini

This Slow Cooker Sausage and Cheese Tortellini is the answer to busy nights when you need real comfort fast. You get plump cheese-filled pasta, flavorful sausage, tender spinach, all pulled together with juicy tomatoes and creamy cheese for a soul-soothing dinner the whole family craves. I turn to this recipe whenever life is hectic and guaranteed everyone will happily clean their plates.

I made this cozy meal the first week my youngest started school and felt pure relief knowing dinner would take care of itself. Now it is my crave-worthy go to when I want everyone around the table with smiles and second helpings.

Ingredients

• Lean turkey sausage: look for one with little filler or use fresh from the butcher for great flavor
• Frozen cheese tortellini: choose a good quality brand for best texture and cheesiness
• Baby spinach leaves: brightens and balances the creaminess with color and nutrients
• Diced tomatoes: I use canned for ease tomatoes should be drained so the sauce stays rich
• Chicken broth: low sodium lets you control the salt and gives savory depth
• Salt and pepper: season lightly at first since the sausage and broth both add flavor
• Italian seasoning: a dried blend to tie it all together with freshness
• Cream cheese: small cubes melt smooth and create the signature sauce
• Shredded Mozzarella cheese: always pick fresh for gooey topping

Step-by-Step Instructions

Brown the Sausage:

Start by crumbling turkey sausage into a skillet set over medium high heat Cook until richly browned and there is no pink left Drain any excess grease for a light clean flavor

Layer the Slow Cooker:

Coat the insert with cooking spray Place frozen tortellini evenly across the bottom Follow with an even layer of cooked sausage

Add Vegetables and Seasonings:

Tuck spinach throughout for even wilting Pour in drained diced tomatoes and chicken broth Sprinkle salt pepper and Italian seasoning over everything

Add Cream Cheese:

Distribute cream cheese cubes evenly on top of the mixture This slow melting ensures a smooth richer sauce that will not curdle

Slow Cook to Perfection:

Seal with the lid and set your cooker to low for up to five hours or high for three to four hours For the first two hours let everything cook undisturbed Afterward gently stir occasionally to prevent pasta from sticking and help sauce blend

Finish with Mozzarella:

When everything is tender and the sauce is bubbling sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the surface Uncover and allow the cheese to melt and the sauce to thicken for fifteen to twenty minutes before serving

Serve and Enjoy:

Spoon generous portions into bowls Serve hot and enjoy all the lush creamy saucy goodness

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Spinach is my personal favorite boost for this dish I love watching it wilt down into the sauce for just enough green that even picky kids will eat I have fond memories of my daughter asking for extra spinach and that always made me smile

Storage Tips

Let any extra tortellini cool to room temperature first then scoop into airtight containers Refrigerate for up to two days This dish does not get mushy even after reheating and tastes even richer on day two

Ingredient Swaps

No sausage at home Use ground beef chicken or even vegetarian crumbles Want extra flavor Add onion or toss in a garlic clove as you brown the protein For spice lovers spicy Italian sausage totally transforms the experience

Serving Suggestions

This is truly a one bowl meal but if you want a rounder spread add garlic bread for dipping or a simple side salad Serve in deep bowls for the best comfort or double the batch for a crowd at potlucks

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Cultural Note

Cheese filled pasta is a northern Italian specialty while this recipe is a true American comfort spin The magic of the slow cooker brings old school flavors to busy weeknights Something about rich tomato creamy cheese and sausage always whispers family and warmth

Commonly Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different meat instead of sausage?

Absolutely! Ground beef, turkey, or chicken all work well in place of sausage.

→ Do I need to thaw the tortellini first?

No need to thaw; simply add frozen tortellini directly to the slow cooker.

→ What vegetables can I add?

Try chopped onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms for more flavor and texture.

→ How do I prevent the pasta from sticking?

Stir the mixture gently a few times after the first two hours to keep the tortellini from sticking.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.

→ What can I serve with this meal?

It pairs well with crusty bread or a crisp green salad for a complete dinner.