Name: Rockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 h
Total time: 5 h 15 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 (19 oz) bag frozen cheese tortellini; 1 lb Italian sausage; 1 (10 oz) bag fresh spinach; 2 cans Italian-style diced tomatoes (approximately 28 oz total); 2 (12 oz) cans low-fat chicken broth; 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, cut into cubes

Jump to Recipe

Introduction

This hearty crockpot cheese tortellini and sausage dish is a comforting meal that comes together with minimal effort. Packed with savory Italian sausage, tender cheese tortellini, and fresh spinach, it’s perfect for cozy dinners any night of the week.

This close-up image shows a deep black pot filled with tortellini pasta and sausage slices in a creamy orange sauce. The dish has two main layers: the bottom layer is a smooth and thick creamy sauce with red tomato chunks mixed in, while the top layer has yellow tortellini pasta with a soft, slightly shiny texture, browned sausage slices with a crispy outside, melted white cheese sprinkled over, and small green herb pieces scattered for garnish. The lighting highlights the moist, rich texture of the sauce and cheese, making the whole dish look warm and comforting. The background has a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 (19 oz) bag frozen cheese tortellini
1 lb Italian sausage
1 (10 oz) bag fresh spinach
2 cans Italian-style diced tomatoes
2 (12 oz) cans low-fat chicken broth
1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, cut into cubes

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Italian sausage in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked and crumbled.
Step 2: Add the cooked sausage to a crockpot along with the fresh spinach, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and cream cheese cubes. Stir to combine everything evenly.
Step 3: Cover and cook on LOW for 5 hours, remembering to stir the mixture twice during cooking.
Step 4: About 20 minutes before serving, add the frozen cheese tortellini to the crockpot. Continue cooking until the tortellini is tender.
Step 5: Give the dish a final stir, serve warm, and enjoy your comforting meal.

Tips & Variations

For a creamier texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a handful of shredded Parmesan just before serving.
Swap Italian sausage for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Add crushed red pepper flakes if you prefer a bit of heat in the dish.
Fresh spinach can be replaced with kale or Swiss chard for a different leafy green option.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of broth or water if the sauce has thickened.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of a creamy pasta dish inside a black pot. The dish has two main layers: the bottom layer is a creamy orange sauce mixed with small pieces of cooked tomatoes, while the top layer has folded yellow tortellini pasta and browned sausage slices. There are small bits of fresh green herbs sprinkled evenly across the dish, and melted cheese is lightly spread over the tortellini and sausage, adding a slightly stretchy texture. Black pepper is dusted on top for extra detail. The background surface is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh tortellini instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh tortellini can be added in the last 10-15 minutes of cooking as they cook faster than frozen. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.

Is it possible to make this recipe in an Instant Pot?

Absolutely! Brown the sausage using the sauté function, then add the other ingredients except the tortellini. Cook on low pressure for 10 minutes, release pressure, add tortellini, and cook on sauté until tender.