There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of comforting pasta on a chilly evening, and that’s where my Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage comes to the rescue! Picture this: a busy day filled with errands, and all I can think about is coming home to a meal that’s not only delicious but also ready and waiting for me. This recipe is a lifesaver—it’s easy, flavorful, and most importantly, it frees me up to enjoy my evening without slaving over the stove.
This dish is particularly close to my heart because it was a staple at my family dinners growing up. My mom would whip it up when we had friends over, and it always elicited compliments and empty bowls. Now, I love making it for my kids and watching them devour it just as I did, making me feel like a kitchen superstar—at least until the dishes come around! Let’s dive into how to make this delightful dish!
What’s in Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage?
- Italian sausage: You can go for either mild or spicy, depending on how daring you’re feeling! I usually lean towards mild for the kids, but there’s nothing wrong with adding a little heat for the adults.
- Onion: Diced to perfection, it adds sweetness and depth to the sauce. I often use sweet onions for a milder flavor.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is what dreams are made of! It not only adds flavor but also fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma.
- Crushed tomatoes: This forms the rich base of our sauce. I always grab a can of San Marzano tomatoes, as they have the perfect balance of flavor.
- Tomato sauce: This adds depth and body to the crushed tomatoes, making it wonderfully saucy.
- Italian seasoning: A must for that classic Italian flavor! I suggest using a blend with oregano, basil, and thyme for a robust taste.
- Salt and black pepper: Simple yet essential seasonings that enhance all the flavors.
- Cheese tortellini: Fresh or frozen, these little pillows of cheese are the stars of the dish! I usually go for the fresh variety because they cook quickly and taste divine.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Because what’s pasta without a sprinkle of melty cheese on top? It adds a lovely gooey factor.
- Fresh parsley: Chopped for garnish, it gives a pop of color and freshness to this hearty dish.
Is Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage Good for You?
Now, let’s chat about how this dish fits into the “good for you” category. The Italian sausage brings protein and a savory flavor, but if you’re looking to lighten things up, consider swapping it out for turkey sausage or omitting it altogether for a vegetarian delight. The cheese tortellini makes it filling, providing carbs for energy, but keep in mind that it does have its fair share of calories. Pairing it with a side salad or some garlic bread ups the health factor, and that little bit of garlic? Well, you can’t go wrong there! Just remember—everything in moderation.
Ingredients List
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, based on preference)
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 (9-ounce) package cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How to Make Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage?
- First things first, in a skillet over medium heat, crumble and brown the Italian sausage until it’s fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. If there’s a lot of fat, drain the excess—you want savory, not greasy!
- In a large crockpot, combine the cooked sausage, diced onion, and minced garlic. This is where the magic starts!
- Add in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients and let those flavors mingle.
- Cover and cook on low heat for 4 hours. Your kitchen is about to smell amazing!
- After 4 hours, stir in the cheese tortellini. Cover and cook for an additional 30 minutes, or until the tortellini is tender.
- Before serving, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top, then cover until melted—about 5-10 minutes. It’s the moment we’ve all been waiting for!
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley, and enjoy the “oohs” and “aahs” from your hungry crowd!
Delicious Tips for Your Crockpot Creation
- If you’re feeling adventurous, throw in some chopped bell peppers or spinach for added nutrients and flavor!
- Don’t have tortellini? Penne or any other pasta works just fine—just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- This meal freezes beautifully! Just make sure to omit the mozzarella cheese if you plan to freeze it, adding it fresh when reheating.
Your kitchen is now a haven of cheese, sausage, and tomato goodness! I encourage you to give my Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage a try. Whether you’re cooking for your family or just need a meal prep win, this dish is sure to impress. And once you’ve savored it, I’d love it if you came back to share your experience. Cooking is always more fun when we can share our foodie adventures!
