Slow Cooker Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe

Cook Time: 480 minutes

This comforting soup brings together tender cheese tortellini, rich Italian sausage, and fresh kale in a flavorful broth. Prepared in a slow cooker, it is perfect for a cozy family dinner with minimal effort.

Ingredients

Original recipe (1X) makes 10 servings.

• 1 pound hot Italian sausage, casings removed
• 2 cups chopped onion
• 2 cups chopped celery
• 2 cups thinly sliced carrots
• 3 tablespoons minced garlic
• 3 cans (14 oz each) whole tomatoes with juice
• 4 cups chicken broth or stock
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning (optional)
• 2 packages (9 oz each) refrigerated cheese tortellini
• 2 cups chopped kale leaves, stems removed
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. Heat a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sausage, breaking it up into small pieces with a spatula. Cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Transfer with a slotted spoon into a 6-quart slow cooker.
2. In the same skillet, add onion and celery. Cook, stirring, until slightly softened, 3 to 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds. Transfer the vegetables into the slow cooker.
3. Add the tomatoes with their juices to the slow cooker, breaking them into bite-sized pieces. Pour in the chicken broth and stir well. Cover and cook on Low for 7 to 8 hours, or on High for 3 to 4 hours.
4. Halfway through cooking, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning if using.
5. About 30 minutes before serving, switch the slow cooker to High. Add the tortellini and kale, adjust seasoning if needed, and cook until the pasta is tender, about 30 minutes.
6. Serve hot and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 395
• Total Fat: 18g (23% DV)
• Saturated Fat: 6g (31% DV)
• Cholesterol: 63mg (21% DV)
• Sodium: 862mg (37% DV)
• Total Carbohydrates: 41g (15% DV)
• Dietary Fiber: 5g (17% DV)
• Total Sugars: 8g
• Protein: 20g (40% DV)
• Vitamin C: 24mg (27% DV)
• Calcium: 159mg (12% DV)
• Iron: 2mg (14% DV)
• Potassium: 713mg (15% DV)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Actual values may vary depending on individual dietary needs.

The Story Behind Slow Cooker Sausage Tortellini Soup

Slow Cooker Sausage Tortellini Soup, a hearty and comforting dish, traces its roots to the rich culinary traditions of Italy. Tortellini, the small ring-shaped pasta stuffed with cheese or meat, originates from the Emilia-Romagna region, specifically from towns like Bologna and Modena. These tiny pasta parcels were traditionally served in broths during special family gatherings and festive occasions. The combination of Italian sausage with vegetables and broth evolved over time, especially in North America, where home cooks sought convenient, slow-cooked versions that preserved the authentic flavors while saving preparation time.

Regional Variations and Features

While the classic Italian version often uses a clear broth and delicate seasoning, American adaptations introduce more robust flavors, frequently adding hearty vegetables like kale, carrots, and celery. The use of a slow cooker allows the sausage to infuse the broth over several hours, creating a deeper, more layered taste compared to traditional stovetop soups. In northern Italy, tortellini soups are typically lighter, whereas in the U.S., they are often richer and creamier, reflecting regional preferences for more substantial comfort food.

Distinguishing from Similar Dishes

This soup differs from other pasta soups such as minestrone or Italian wedding soup. Minestrone is a vegetable-forward soup with beans and small pasta shapes, usually without meat filling inside the pasta, while Italian wedding soup uses meatballs instead of sausage and simpler pasta. Slow Cooker Sausage Tortellini Soup stands out because the stuffed tortellini provides both texture and flavor, and the sausage adds a smoky, savory depth that balances the fresh vegetables.

Where It's Typically Served

This comforting soup is commonly served at family dinners, casual gatherings, or as a cozy weeknight meal. Restaurants with Italian-American menus often feature it as a starter or main course, paired with warm, crusty bread or a fresh green salad. Its slow-cooked richness makes it ideal for cold weather, holiday meals, or any occasion where hearty, filling dishes are appreciated.

Interesting Facts and Trivia

One intriguing fact about tortellini is that its shape is said to be inspired by the navel of Venus, symbolizing love and culinary artistry. Sausage, on the other hand, reflects the Italian tradition of preserving meat with herbs and spices. The slow cooker version of this soup is a modern innovation, merging convenience with tradition. Additionally, kale, increasingly popular in American adaptations, was not part of the original recipe but adds both nutrition and a pop of color. Serving this soup with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese further enhances its depth, linking it to centuries of Italian cheese-making heritage.

Overall, Slow Cooker Sausage Tortellini Soup is a beautiful example of culinary adaptation: honoring Italian roots while embracing practical modern cooking techniques, making it a favorite in kitchens worldwide.

FAQ about Slow Cooker Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe