Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage – Easy Slow Cooker Dinner

As the days grow shorter and the chill of evening sets in, there's nothing quite like the anticipation of a cozy dinner waiting for you at home. Picture this: a slow cooker bubbling away with a comforting blend of cheese tortellini, rich Italian sausage, and vibrant spinach. This Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage recipe is not only a delight for your taste buds but also a savior for your busy schedule.

From the first aromatic whiff of garlic mingling with savory sausage to the creamy sauce wrapping around tender tortellini, each bite is a warm hug in a bowl. This easy slow cooker dinner is perfect for anyone seeking to swap out fast food for something homemade and nourishing. Trust me, whether you love a bit of spice or prefer it mild, the variations you can create mean this dish adapts to your family's tastes. So, gather your ingredients, set your crockpot, and let the magic happen while you unwind!

Why is Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage a winner?

Comforting Experience: Each bowl offers a delightful fusion of creamy cheese, hearty sausage, and tender tortellini, providing a true comfort food experience.
Effortless Preparation: Simply toss the ingredients into your slow cooker, and let it work its magic while you enjoy your day.
Customizable Flavors: Whether you prefer spicy sausage or a vegetarian twist with more veggies, this recipe caters to all taste preferences.
Time-Saving Delight: Spend less time in the kitchen without skimping on flavor, making it ideal for busy weeknights or family gatherings.
Crowd-Pleasing Meal: The rich, savory flavors make it a hit with both kids and adults alike, ensuring everyone leaves the table happy!
For more delightful slow cooker ideas, check out our other easy slow cooker recipes.

Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage Ingredients

For the Base
• Italian Sausage - Provides a hearty flavor base; substitute with chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter option.
• Diced Tomatoes - Adds acidity and moisture; use fresh tomatoes for an even fresher taste.
• Minced Garlic - Infuses the dish with aromatic flavor; garlic powder can work in a pinch.
• Italian Seasoning - An essential herb blend that deepens flavor; single herbs like oregano or basil are good substitutes.
• Chicken Broth - Acts as the cooking liquid; vegetable broth can easily support a vegetarian version.

For Creaminess
• Cream Cheese - Creates the rich, creamy sauce; swap in neufchâtel cheese for a lower-fat alternative.

For the Main Dish
• Frozen Cheese Tortellini - The main carbohydrate element; fresh tortellini can be substituted, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.
• Fresh Spinach - Adds nutrition and color; swap with kale or other leafy greens as desired.

Final Touches
• Salt and Pepper - Essential for flavor adjustment; always tailor to your taste preferences.

This Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage recipe is not only easy but also packed with comforting flavors!

How to Make Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage

Brown the Sausage: Start by cooking the Italian sausage in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, until it's nicely browned. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish light and flavorful.
Combine in the Crockpot: Transfer the cooked sausage to your crockpot. Add the diced tomatoes, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and chicken broth. Give everything a good stir to combine those delightful flavors.
Add Cream Cheese: Cut the cream cheese into cubes and place them on top of the mixture in the crockpot. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours, let the magic happen!
Mix in Tortellini and Spinach: About 30 minutes before serving, add the frozen cheese tortellini and fresh spinach to the crockpot. Stir gently to combine; this will ensure the tortellini soaks up all that creamy goodness!
Season and Serve: Once the tortellini is tender, taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot in bowls, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan if you like.

Optional: Garnish with fresh basil for an extra pop of flavor!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage?

As the warm, creamy aroma fills your home, it's time to think about delightful sides that will complement this cozy dish.

Garlic Bread: The perfect vehicle for sopping up the creamy sauce, garlic bread adds a crunchy texture to each meal.
Simple Arugula Salad: A light, peppery salad brings a refreshing contrast, balancing the richness of the tortellini. Toss with a zesty lemon vinaigrette for a bright finish.
Steamed Broccoli: The bright green, tender florets offer a nutritious touch while providing a satisfying crunch alongside the creamy comfort of the main dish.
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized will add depth and bring multiple flavors to your dinner table.
Cheesy Garlic Knots: These bite-sized treats are ideal for pairing with a warm bowl of tortellini, satisfying every cheesy craving.
Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad can cleanse the palate, providing a sweet contrast to the savory dinner. Consider using berries and citrus for a vibrant mix!
Sparkling Water or Wine: Pair your meal with bubbly sparkling water or a light white wine; both options enhance the flavors while keeping the meal light and enjoyable.

Make Ahead Options

These Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can brown the Italian sausage and combine it with diced tomatoes, garlic, and seasonings up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerating the mixture in your crockpot insert. When you're ready to enjoy this comfort dish, simply add the cream cheese and set the slow cooker to the desired cooking time. For best results, reserve adding the tortellini and spinach until about 30 minutes before serving to maintain their texture. This method not only saves you time but ensures the dish is just as delicious and hearty when it's time to dig in!

Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage Variations

Explore creative twists to make this cozy dish uniquely yours!

Spicy Kick: Use spicy Italian sausage to give your dish a delightful heat that warms you from the inside out. It's a great way to elevate the flavor while keeping the comforting base intact.
Vegetarian Option: Omit the sausage and load up on extra vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms for a hearty, meat-free feast. The cheesy tortellini will pair beautifully with the added veggies!
Gluten-Free Twist: Swap regular tortellini for gluten-free varieties to make this dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions. This way, everyone can enjoy a comforting meal without compromise.
Creamy Variations: Experiment with different cheeses-try a blend of cream cheese and ricotta for a richer sauce or add some shredded mozzarella for extra gooeyness.
Herb-Infused: Throw in fresh herbs like basil or thyme towards the end of cooking to brighten up flavors and add a fresh element to the creamy dish.
Hearty Addition: Toss in some cooked lentils or chickpeas for extra protein and a hearty boost. They will enhance the dish's texture while making it even more filling!
Sweet Peppers: Add sliced bell peppers during the last hour of cooking for a burst of sweetness that complements the savory flavors beautifully.
Coconut Cream: For a tropical twist, swap cream cheese with coconut cream. You'll have a rich and unique flavor that provides a delightful contrast!

Expert Tips for Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage

Sausage Options: Choose spicy Italian sausage for heat or mild sausage for a family-friendly vibe. This lets everyone enjoy this comforting dish.
Vegetable Swaps: Feel free to replace spinach with zucchini or bell peppers! Just remember to cut them into smaller pieces for even cooking.
Meal Prep Friendly: Make this dish ahead of time. It freezes well and the flavors deepen as they meld-perfect for easy dinners later.
Cooked to Perfection: Ensure that the tortellini is fully cooked and tender, typically achieved in 30 minutes in the crockpot, for the best texture.
Creamy Adjustments: If you prefer a lighter dish, swap cream cheese with neufchâtel cheese to keep that rich creaminess while reducing calories.

How to Store and Freeze Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, ensuring the creamy sauce remains fresh and delicious.

Freezer: Freeze portions in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Make sure to label them for easy identification!

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed to keep the sauce creamy.

Make-Ahead: This Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage dish can be made ahead of time, allowing flavors to deepen and creating an easy, comforting meal for another day.

Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage Recipe FAQs

What type of Italian sausage should I use?
Absolutely! For this Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage recipe, you can use either spicy Italian sausage for a bit of heat or mild sausage for a family-friendly option. Feel free to substitute with chicken or turkey sausage if you prefer a lighter dish while still maintaining that robust flavor.

How should I store leftovers?
To keep your leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This ensures the creamy sauce remains delightful. If you're storing larger portions, make sure to let it cool down to room temperature before sealing it up to prevent condensation.

Can I freeze the Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage?
Yes, you can! To freeze, ladle the cooked dish into airtight containers or freezer bags. Ensure you leave a little space at the top for expansion. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Remember to label the containers with the date for easy identification later!

What should I do if my tortellini is not fully cooked?
If you find that the tortellini isn't fully cooked after the designated time, don't worry! Simply cover the crockpot and cook it for an additional 15 to 30 minutes. Check periodically to ensure that the tortellini is tender and ready to go!

Are there any dietary considerations for allergies?
Absolutely! If anyone in your family has dairy allergies, you can make this dish dairy-free by omitting the cream cheese or using a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream. Additionally, ensure that the tortellini used is gluten-free if needed by selecting a gluten-free variety, as some brands offer that option.

Can I increase the vegetable content?
Very much so! Feel free to incorporate other vegetables like diced zucchini or chopped bell peppers. Just remember to cut them into small pieces to ensure even cooking. You can add these vegetables in during the last 30 minutes alongside the tortellini for the best flavor and texture.