Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage – The Ultimate Comfort Food Dinner
If you’re searching for an easy, hearty, and crowd-pleasing dinner that practically cooks itself, look no further than this Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage recipe. This dish brings together tender cheese-filled pasta, savory Italian sausage, rich marinara sauce, and melty cheeses for a comforting meal that will warm your soul. Perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or even a cozy Sunday dinner, this crockpot recipe is proof that delicious meals don’t need to be complicated.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity: just brown the sausage, throw everything into the slow cooker, and let it work its magic. By the time you’re ready to eat, you’ll have a bubbling pot of cheesy pasta goodness that tastes like it came straight from an Italian kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Minimal prep time: Just brown the sausage and let the crockpot handle the rest.
Family-friendly: Kids and adults both love cheesy pasta.
Versatile: Works with mild, sweet, or spicy Italian sausage.
Make-ahead friendly: You can prep it earlier in the day and have dinner ready when you walk through the door.
Crowd-pleasing: A great option for potlucks, parties, or feeding a hungry family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
1 lb Italian sausage (casings removed – you can use mild, sweet, or spicy depending on your preference)
1 bag (19 oz) frozen cheese tortellini (no need to thaw; it cooks beautifully in the sauce)
1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce (choose your favorite brand or use homemade for an extra touch)
1/2 cup chicken broth (helps keep the tortellini from drying out and adds flavor)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for that gooey, stretchy cheese topping)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (adds sharp, salty flavor to balance the richness)
Salt and black pepper (to taste, added at the end)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Italian Sausage
Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks.
Continue cooking until the sausage is browned and fully cooked through.
Drain any excess grease from the pan to avoid an oily sauce.
Step 2: Assemble in the Crockpot
In your slow cooker, combine the cooked sausage, frozen cheese tortellini, marinara sauce, and chicken broth.
Stir everything well to ensure the tortellini are coated in sauce.
Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4–5 hours or on high for 2–3 hours.
The tortellini should be tender but not mushy by the end of cooking.
Step 4: Add the Cheesy Topping
In the last 30 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top.
Cover and let the cheese melt into gooey perfection.
Step 5: Season and Serve
Taste the dish and adjust with salt and pepper if needed.
Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan or fresh basil if you like.
Tips for the Best Results
Don’t overcook the tortellini: Since they are fresh pasta, they cook quickly. Stick to the recommended times for the best texture.
Add extra veggies: Spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini can be stirred in for added nutrition.
Spice it up: Use hot Italian sausage or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of ricotta cheese at the end for extra richness.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
What to Serve With Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage
This dish is hearty on its own, but you can turn it into a complete Italian-inspired dinner by serving it with:
Garlic bread or buttery breadsticks
A crisp green salad with balsamic vinaigrette
Roasted vegetables like broccoli or Brussels sprouts
A glass of red wine or sparkling water with lemon
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use refrigerated tortellini instead of frozen?
Yes! If using refrigerated tortellini, reduce the cooking time slightly since they cook faster than frozen.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap the sausage for plant-based sausage or leave it out and add more vegetables.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, just make sure your crockpot is large enough to hold everything. Cooking times may be slightly longer.
Final Thoughts
This Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage is everything you want in a weeknight dinner: easy, comforting, and absolutely delicious. With its rich tomato sauce, cheesy pasta, and savory sausage, it’s guaranteed to become a family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your kids, or a group of friends, this dish will leave everyone asking for seconds.