In today’s busy world, finding the time to prepare a hearty and delicious meal can be a challenge. That’s where the crockpot comes in—a kitchen hero that allows you to create mouthwatering dishes with minimal effort. One such dish is the Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage, a comforting one-pot meal that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy nights in. This recipe combines flavorful Italian sausage, tender cheese tortellini, and rich marinara sauce, all slow-cooked to perfection. The result is a satisfying and easy meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Preparation Time
- Active Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 4-5 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high
- Total Time: Approximately 4.5 hours on low or 3 hours on high
Ingredients
- 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 bag (19 oz) frozen cheese tortellini
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation Steps
- Brown the Sausage
Begin by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it into small pieces with a spatula or wooden spoon as it cooks. Stir frequently to ensure even browning. Cook the sausage until it’s no longer pink and has a nice browned appearance, which should take about 7-10 minutes. Once cooked, carefully drain any excess grease from the skillet to reduce fat content and prevent a greasy final dish.
- Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot
Prepare your crockpot by spraying it with non-stick cooking spray or lining it with a crockpot liner for easy cleanup. Transfer the browned sausage into the crockpot. Add the frozen cheese tortellini on top of the sausage. Pour in the jar of marinara sauce and the 1/2 cup of chicken broth. The chicken broth adds moisture and helps the tortellini cook evenly. Gently stir all the ingredients together until the tortellini are well-coated with sauce and the sausage is evenly distributed.
- Slow Cook the Dish
Place the lid on the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. Cooking times may vary depending on your crockpot model, so it’s a good idea to check the tortellini for doneness towards the end of the cooking time. The goal is for the tortellini to be tender but not overcooked, and for the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Add the Cheeses
About 30 minutes before the cooking time is complete, remove the lid of the crockpot. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the tortellini mixture. Replace the lid and allow the cheeses to melt and become gooey. This cheesy topping adds an extra layer of flavor and makes the dish irresistibly creamy.
- Season and Serve
Before serving, taste the dish and add salt and pepper as needed. Keep in mind that the sausage, marinara sauce, and cheeses already contain salt, so it’s best to season lightly. Serve the Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley if desired. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or garlic bread to complete the meal.
The Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage recipe is a delightful blend of convenience and comfort. With minimal prep time and the magic of slow cooking, you can enjoy a rich and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. The combination of savory sausage, tender tortellini, and melted cheeses creates a symphony of flavors that taste like you’ve spent hours in the kitchen. This one-pot wonder not only saves you time but also makes cleanup a breeze. So the next time you’re looking for an easy yet indulgent dinner option, give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed.