Slow Cooker Tomato Tortellini Soup is a cozy and comforting dish that combines the rich flavors of tomatoes, savory herbs, and cheesy tortellini in a simple and hands-off way. Perfect for a busy weeknight or a weekend lunch, this soup comes together effortlessly in your slow cooker. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a satisfying meal that’s ready when you are. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly evening or looking for a hearty lunch, this soup is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
The combination of crushed tomatoes, garlic, basil, and oregano creates a flavor-packed base that complements the tender tortellini perfectly. The addition of fresh spinach adds a touch of color and nutrition, making this soup a wholesome choice for the whole family. Plus, a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top takes the flavor to the next level, making every spoonful a delicious experience.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This soup is perfect for busy days when you want a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The slow cooker does all the work for you!
- Rich, Flavorful Base: The crushed tomatoes and spices create a rich and savory broth that’s the perfect foundation for the cheese tortellini.
- Hearty and Filling: Cheese tortellini and fresh spinach make this soup satisfying and filling, so you won’t need anything else for a complete meal.
- Comforting and Cozy: Perfect for those cold weather days, this soup is warm, comforting, and perfect for relaxing with a bowl of goodness.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the seasonings, add extra veggies, or swap in a different type of pasta to suit your preferences.
Ingredients
- Crushed tomatoes
- Chicken broth
- Onion, diced
- Garlic, minced
- Dried basil
- Dried oregano
- Salt and pepper
- Cheese tortellini
- Fresh spinach
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Variations
- Add Meat: For a more substantial soup, you can add cooked sausage, chicken, or ground beef to the soup.
- Vegetarian Version: Keep it vegetarian by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and skipping any meat additions.
- Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free tortellini and skip the Parmesan cheese for a dairy-free option.
- Extra Veggies: Add other vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini to make the soup even more nutritious.
- Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a small diced jalapeño for a spicy kick.
How to Make the Recipe
- Prepare the Ingredients: Dice the onion and mince the garlic. Rinse the spinach and set aside.
- Combine in the Slow Cooker: Add the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, diced onion, minced garlic, dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours, until the flavors have melded together.
- Add Tortellini: About 20 minutes before serving, add the cheese tortellini to the slow cooker. Stir gently to incorporate the pasta into the broth. Cover and let it cook until the tortellini is tender.
- Add Spinach: Just before serving, stir in the fresh spinach and let it wilt in the soup.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Tips for Making the Recipe
- Don’t Overcook the Tortellini: If the soup is cooking for a long time, add the tortellini closer to the end of the cooking time to avoid them becoming mushy.
- Use Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh basil and oregano on hand, feel free to use them for a more vibrant flavor.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste the soup before serving and adjust the seasonings as needed. More salt, pepper, or herbs can elevate the flavor.
- Add Cream: For a creamy variation, add a splash of heavy cream or milk just before serving to make the soup extra rich.
How to Serve
- With Bread: Serve with warm crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping to make it a complete meal.
- Topped with Cheese: Add a generous amount of grated Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor.
- Side Salad: Pair with a light side salad, like a simple green salad with balsamic vinaigrette, for a well-rounded meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Storing Leftovers: Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: To freeze, allow the soup to cool completely and store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Be sure to store the tortellini and spinach separately if you want to keep them fresh.
- Reheating: Reheat the soup on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through. You may need to add a splash of broth to thin it out if it thickens too much in the refrigerator.
FAQs
- Can I use frozen tortellini? Yes, you can use frozen tortellini. Just add it directly to the slow cooker and cook as directed.
- Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, you can substitute any small pasta, like elbow macaroni or shells, if you prefer.
- Can I add other vegetables? Yes, you can add vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers for more flavor and nutrition.
- Can I make this soup on the stovetop? Yes, you can make this soup on the stovetop. Just simmer the ingredients (except the tortellini and spinach) for about 30 minutes, then add the pasta and cook until tender.
- Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth? Yes, you can easily substitute vegetable broth to make the soup vegetarian.
- Can I add cream to this soup? Yes, for a creamy version, you can add some heavy cream or half-and-half toward the end of the cooking time.
- Can I make this soup without spinach? Yes, you can skip the spinach or replace it with another leafy green, like kale.
- Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned crushed tomatoes? Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes, but you’ll need to peel and crush them before adding them to the soup.
- How can I make this soup spicier? Add red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to give the soup some heat.
- How long can I store the soup? You can store the soup in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Tomato Tortellini Soup is the perfect balance of rich tomato flavor, tender pasta, and fresh spinach, all made effortlessly in your slow cooker. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight meal or something to serve at a gathering, this soup is sure to impress. Its simplicity and heartiness make it a versatile recipe that can be adapted to your preferences. Enjoy the comforting warmth of this delicious soup with your family and friends!