Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables (Optional but Recommended)

While you can skip this step and add the vegetables directly to the slow cooker, sautéing them beforehand enhances their flavor. Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and the onions are translucent.

Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant. This will infuse the soup with a depth of flavor and make your house smell amazing! Once the vegetables are cooked, transfer them to your slow cooker.

Step 2: Add Broth, Seasonings, and Cheese

To the slow cooker, add the chicken broth, heavy cream, Italian seasoning, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together to combine. This creates the flavorful base of your soup.

Next, add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese to the mix. The cheese will melt into the soup as it cooks, contributing to the creamy, rich texture that makes this soup so irresistible.

Step 3: Let the Slow Cooker Work Its Magic

Cover the slow cooker and set it on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours. During this time, the broth will simmer, allowing the vegetables to become tender and the flavors to meld together. If you're using a slow cooker with a "keep warm" function, you can let the soup sit until you're ready to serve.

Step 4: Add the Tortellini and Spinach

After the soup has cooked for the allotted time, it’s time to add the tortellini and spinach. Add the tortellini to the slow cooker, stir gently, and let it cook for another 20-30 minutes on low until the tortellini is tender and fully cooked.

About 5 minutes before serving, add the fresh spinach (or kale) to the soup, stirring it in until it wilts down. The spinach adds both color and nutrition to the soup, making it even more comforting.

Step 5: Adjust Seasoning and Serve

Once the tortellini and spinach are cooked, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add a little more salt, pepper, or a sprinkle of Italian seasoning for extra flavor.

Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with shaved Parmesan cheese, and serve hot. You can also drizzle a bit of extra cream or add a dollop of sour cream for added richness if you like.

Step 6: Enjoy Your Hearty Soup!

Now that your Slow Cooker Creamy Tortellini Soup is ready, serve it with a side of crusty bread, a fresh salad, or a light appetizer to make a full meal. This soup is hearty enough to be a main course, and its comforting flavors are perfect for a cozy family dinner or as a crowd-pleasing dish for guests.

Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Creamy Tortellini Soup:

1. Use Fresh Tortellini: For the best texture and flavor, opt for fresh refrigerated tortellini, though frozen tortellini can also be used. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time if using frozen.
2. Make It Lighter: If you want to reduce the richness, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or even whole milk. You can also skip the butter and reduce the amount of Parmesan for a lighter version of the soup.
3. Add Protein: If you'd like to make the soup heartier, consider adding shredded rotisserie chicken, Italian sausage, or bacon for extra protein and flavor.
4. Vegetable Variations: Customize the soup with your favorite vegetables. Adding zucchini, peas, or even mushrooms can give the soup a new twist while keeping it deliciously comforting.
5. Slow Cooker Timing: Be mindful of cooking time to avoid overcooking the tortellini. Once the pasta is added, it's best to keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t become too soft or mushy.
6. Store Leftovers: Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The soup can thicken as it sits, so if it becomes too thick when reheated, just add a splash of milk or broth to reach your desired consistency.

Conclusion:

Slow Cooker Creamy Tortellini Soup is the ultimate comfort food—a rich, creamy broth filled with tender tortellini, vegetables, and a hint of Parmesan cheese. With minimal effort and the help of your slow cooker, you can enjoy a deliciously hearty soup that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it to a crowd or enjoying a cozy night in, this soup is sure to be a favorite.

Easy, comforting, and utterly satisfying, this soup is a winner in every sense. So, the next time you’re in the mood for something warm and indulgent, give this recipe a try. You’ll have a bowl of creamy goodness ready to enjoy, with minimal effort and maximum flavor!