Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage: A Comforting, Flavorful One-Pot Meal
When it comes to comfort food, nothing beats a hearty pasta dish made with love—and minimal effort! This Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage recipe is the ultimate weeknight dinner or cozy weekend meal. It’s loaded with tender cheese-filled tortellini, savory Italian sausage, and a rich marinara sauce, all topped with melty mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. The best part? Your crockpot does most of the work, making this a stress-free, hands-off meal that’s as satisfying as it is simple.
Whether you’re feeding a crowd, meal prepping for the week, or looking for a family-friendly dish that everyone will love, this recipe is the perfect solution. It’s comfort food at its finest—cheesy, saucy, and packed with bold flavors.
Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Tortellini and Sausage Recipe
1. Effortless Cooking: The slow cooker takes care of the hard work, so you can enjoy more free time.
2. Family-Friendly: With cheesy tortellini and hearty sausage, this dish is a hit with kids and adults alike.
3. One-Pot Meal: Fewer dishes to wash means less cleanup.
4. Customizable: Swap the sausage or add veggies to suit your preferences.
5. Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for meal prep or leftovers.
Ingredients for Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage
Here’s what you’ll need to make this easy and satisfying dish:
• 1 lb Italian sausage: Use mild or spicy, depending on your preference.
• 1 bag (19 oz) frozen cheese tortellini: The star of the dish, providing a cheesy, tender bite.
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce: Choose your favorite store-bought sauce or use homemade.
• 1/2 cup chicken broth: Adds moisture and enhances the sauce’s flavor.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: For a gooey, melty topping.
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty finish.
• Salt and pepper: To taste.
How to Make Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
• Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the Italian sausage, breaking it into small crumbles as it browns.
• Once fully cooked, drain any excess grease and set the sausage aside.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot
• In your crockpot, add the browned sausage, frozen cheese tortellini, marinara sauce, and chicken broth.
• Gently stir everything to combine, ensuring the tortellini is coated in the sauce.
Step 3: Slow Cook
• Cover the crockpot with the lid and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours.
• Stir occasionally if possible to ensure even cooking.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
• In the last 30 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top of the tortellini mixture.
• Cover and let the cheese melt into a bubbly, gooey topping.
Step 5: Season and Serve
• Before serving, taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
• Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
Tips for the Best Crockpot Tortellini and Sausage
1. Don’t Overcook the Tortellini: Frozen tortellini cooks quickly in the crockpot, so keep an eye on the cooking time to avoid mushy pasta.
2. Use Fresh Cheese: Grate mozzarella and Parmesan from a block for the best melt and flavor.
3. Customize the Ingredients: Add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra nutrients and flavor.
4. Try Different Sausages: Experiment with turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or plant-based sausage for a twist.
5. Use Homemade Sauce: If you have time, make a batch of homemade marinara sauce for a more personal touch.
Why This Recipe is Perfect for Busy Families
This crockpot recipe is a lifesaver for busy families. You can prep the ingredients in minutes, set it in the slow cooker, and let it do the work while you tackle your to-do list. By dinnertime, you’ll have a warm, hearty meal ready to enjoy with minimal effort. It’s also a hit with picky eaters thanks to the cheesy tortellini and flavorful sausage.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
This recipe serves 6 people. Below is an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving:
• Calories: 420
• Protein: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 23g
• Fiber: 4g
Variations and Substitutions
This Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage recipe is incredibly versatile. Here are some ideas to customize it:
1. Vegetarian Option: Replace the sausage with sautéed mushrooms or plant-based sausage.
2. Add Veggies: Mix in spinach, zucchini, or diced tomatoes for added nutrition.
3. Spicy Version: Use hot Italian sausage or add red pepper flakes for a kick.
4. Swap the Pasta: Use meat-filled tortellini or even ravioli for a different flavor profile.
5. Creamy Twist: Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream or cream cheese for a richer sauce.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is hearty on its own, but you can pair it with these sides to make it a full meal:
• Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the extra sauce.
• Simple Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta.
• Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted broccoli or asparagus for added nutrients.
Storing and Reheating
• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: This dish freezes well. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth if the sauce has thickened too much.
Final Thoughts
This Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage recipe is everything you want in a comfort meal: warm, cheesy, and incredibly easy to make. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or even meal prepping. Give this recipe a try and let the crockpot do all the work while you enjoy a flavorful, satisfying meal!
Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family, and let us know how you customized your dish!