Prepare to indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience with this mouthwatering recipe for Slow Cooker Cheesy Sausage and Tortellini. Packed with savory flavors, creamy cheese, and hearty ingredients, this dish is sure to become a favorite for busy weeknights and cozy weekends alike. Let’s dive into the deliciousness!
There’s something truly magical about a meal that’s both delicious and easy to prepare. With this slow cooker recipe, you can enjoy all the flavors of a comforting Italian dish without the hassle of multiple pots and pans. Simply toss everything into the crockpot, let it simmer to perfection, and voila – a satisfying meal awaits. Get ready to savor every bite of cheesy goodness!
Ingredients:
- 48 oz low-sodium chicken broth
- 36 oz frozen cheese tortellini
- 5 oz fresh spinach
- 2 cans tomatoes with green chilies (or diced tomatoes for a milder flavor)
- 2 smoked sausages, sliced
- 2 blocks cream cheese, softened and cubed
- Salt, pepper, 3 tablespoons Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (to taste)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup Italian blend cheeses (or another cup of mozzarella)
- Parmesan cheese (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare Ingredients: Start by slicing the smoked sausages and cubing the cream cheese. Set aside.
- Combine Ingredients: In the slow cooker, add the low-sodium chicken broth, frozen cheese tortellini, fresh spinach, canned tomatoes with green chilies, sliced smoked sausages, and cubed cream cheese. Season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes according to your taste preferences.
- Mix Well: Stir the ingredients in the slow cooker until everything is well combined and the cream cheese begins to melt into the broth.
- Cook Slow and Low: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 4-6 hours, or until the tortellini is tender and the flavors have melded together.
- Add Cheese: Once the tortellini is cooked, sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Italian blend cheeses over the top of the mixture in the slow cooker. Cover and let the cheese melt for a few minutes.
- Serve Hot: Once the cheese is melted and gooey, give the mixture a final stir to incorporate the melted cheese throughout. Serve the cheesy sausage and tortellini hot, garnished with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the smoked sausages and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian-friendly version.
- Extra Veggies: Feel free to add in additional vegetables like diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or onions for added flavor and nutrition.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes or use mild diced tomatoes if you prefer a less spicy dish.
- Fresh Tortellini: If you have fresh tortellini available, you can use that instead of frozen. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly as fresh tortellini cooks faster.
Keto and Low Carb Versions:
For those following a keto or low-carb lifestyle, here are some modifications you can make to enjoy this recipe:
- Low-Carb Tortellini: Look for low-carb or keto-friendly tortellini options made with almond flour or coconut flour.
- Replace Tortellini: Substitute the tortellini with zucchini noodles (zoodles) or cauliflower florets for a lower-carb alternative.
- Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cream cheese and cheese alternatives made from nuts or soy for a dairy-free and keto-friendly version.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use different types of sausage? A: Absolutely! You can swap the smoked sausages for Italian sausage, chicken sausage, or any other variety you prefer.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes, this dish freezes well. Simply transfer any leftovers to airtight containers and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Q: Can I add other cheeses? A: Of course! Feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations such as cheddar, provolone, or fontina to customize the flavor to your liking.
Q: Can I make this on the stovetop instead of using a slow cooker? A: Absolutely! You can easily adapt this recipe for stovetop cooking. Simply follow the same steps, but cook the ingredients in a large pot over medium heat until the tortellini is tender and the cheese is melted.
With its creamy cheese, savory sausage, and tender tortellini, Slow Cooker Cheesy Sausage and Tortellini is the epitome of comfort food perfection. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or simply craving a cozy meal at home, this recipe is sure to satisfy. So grab your slow cooker and get ready to enjoy a bowlful of cheesy goodness – it’s comfort food at its finest!
