Crockpot Sausage Tortellini Soup With Garlic Knots
Warm up with a comforting bowl of Crockpot Sausage Tortellini Soup, enriched with Italian flavors and served alongside fluffy garlic knots. This easy-to-make recipe combines savory regular sausage, tangy Italian diced tomatoes, and creamy whipped cream cheese in a slow cooker for a rich base.
Fresh spinach and cheese tortellinis are added later, infusing the soup with freshness and heartiness. Perfectly simmered and seasoned to taste, this soup is a delightful blend of flavors that’s sure to satisfy your cravings on a chilly day.
Crockpot Sausage Tortellini Soup With Garlic Knots
Ingredients:
In a lined crockpot:
1 Lb Regular sausage (cooked)
2 cans Italian diced tomatoes (not drained)
1 32 oz chicken broth
1 block of cream cheese cubed (I used an 8 oz whipped cream cheese)
Instructions:
Cook on low for 3 1/2 hours.
Add 3 cups (I did handfuls) of fresh spinach
Add one 20 oz package of cheese tortellinis
Continue to cook on low for another 30 min.
(I did add about 1/4 container more of chicken broth later and of course season to taste/ the way you like it. )
It’s delicious!
Notes:
Sausage: Using cooked regular sausage provides a hearty and flavorful base for the soup. Ensure the sausage is cooked and drained of excess fat before adding it to the crockpot.
Italian Diced Tomatoes: Two cans of Italian diced tomatoes add a robust flavor to the soup. Using the tomatoes without draining them allows their juices to contribute to the soup’s broth.
Chicken Broth: A 32 oz container of chicken broth forms the liquid base of the soup, providing depth and enhancing the savory flavors.
Cream Cheese: Cubed whipped cream cheese adds a creamy texture and richness to the soup. Adding it in cubes allows it to melt evenly into the broth as it cooks.
Cooking Instructions: Cooking on low for 3 1/2 hours ensures that all the flavors meld together while the sausage and tomatoes impart their essence into the broth.
Adding Spinach: Fresh spinach adds a nutritious element and vibrant color to the soup. Adding it towards the end of cooking ensures it retains its texture and bright green color.
Tortellinis: Adding a 20 oz package of cheese tortellinis towards the end of cooking allows them to cook through without becoming mushy. They add heartiness and texture to the soup.
Adjustments: Adding a bit more chicken broth later helps adjust the consistency of the soup to your preference. Seasoning to taste with salt, pepper, and any preferred herbs or spices enhances the soup’s flavor profile.
Garlic Knots: Serving the soup with garlic knots complements its Italian flavors and adds a delightful side dish.
Final Touch: Before serving, taste the soup and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnishing with grated Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs like basil adds a finishing touch.
Nutrition Information:
YIELDS: 8 | SERVING SIZE: 1
Calories: 435 kcal | Total Fat: 26g | Saturated Fat: 11g | Trans Fat: 0g | Cholesterol: 86mg | Sodium: 1383mg | Total Carbohydrates: 29g | Dietary Fiber: 3g | Sugars: 5g | Protein: 20g
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes, you can substitute regular sausage with turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even vegetarian sausage for a lighter option.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned Italian diced tomatoes?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes.
Dice them and adjust seasoning accordingly since canned tomatoes may have added salt.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese instead of regular cream cheese?
Yes, you can use low-fat or reduced-fat cream cheese to lower the fat content of the soup.
How can I make this soup vegetarian?
You can omit the sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Increase the amount of vegetables or add tofu for protein.
Can I freeze this soup?
While you can freeze this soup, it’s best to freeze it without the tortellinis as they can become mushy upon thawing and reheating.
Add fresh tortellinis when reheating.
How can I make garlic knots to go with this soup?
You can make garlic knots using store-bought pizza dough.
Roll out the dough, cut into strips, tie into knots, brush with garlic butter, and bake until golden brown.
Can I cook this soup on high instead of low for a shorter time?
It’s recommended to cook this soup on low to allow the flavors to develop fully and to prevent overcooking the tortellinis and other ingredients.
What can I serve with this soup besides garlic knots?
You can serve this soup with crusty bread, a side salad, or even grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen spinach?
Yes, you can use fresh spinach.
Add it towards the end of cooking to ensure it retains its vibrant color and texture.
How can I make this soup thicker or thinner?
To make the soup thicker, you can reduce the amount of chicken broth used or let it cook longer uncovered to allow some liquid to evaporate.
To make it thinner, add more chicken broth or water until you reach the desired consistency.