Crockpot Creamy Tortellini Recipe
This simple slow-cooker meal is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. The cheese tortellini soak up a flavorful, creamy sauce loaded with garlic, herbs, and parmesan for a dinner that feels indulgent with minimal effort.
Ingredients
1 (20 oz) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups baby spinach (optional)
1½ cups heavy cream
1 cup low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
¾ cup grated parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Crockpot Base
Add the heavy cream, broth, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the crockpot. Stir well to combine the flavors and evenly distribute the seasonings.
2. Add Tortellini and Cook
Gently add the cheese tortellini to the mixture and stir to coat. Cover and cook on low for 3–4 hours, or high for 1½–2 hours, until the tortellini are tender and cooked through. Avoid overcooking—check early, as slow cookers can vary.
3. Stir in Cheese and Greens
Once the tortellini are tender, add the grated parmesan cheese and spinach (if using). Stir gently to combine and let it cook for another 5–10 minutes until the spinach wilts and the sauce thickens slightly.
4. Finish and Serve
Give everything a final stir and taste for seasoning. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of parmesan before serving.
Cooking Tips & Notes
Use refrigerated tortellini: Shelf-stable or frozen tortellini may require a longer cook time or a bit more liquid.
Customize it: Add cooked crumbled sausage, rotisserie chicken, or sautéed mushrooms for extra heartiness.
Don’t overcook: Tortellini can become mushy if left too long in the crockpot, so start checking for doneness at the earlier end of the time range.
For a thicker sauce: You can reduce the broth slightly or stir in a spoonful of cream cheese at the end for a richer texture.
Make it vegetarian: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken and check the tortellini ingredients to ensure no meat-based fillings.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with warm garlic bread or crusty baguette to soak up the creamy sauce
Pair with a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette or balsamic glaze
Add roasted vegetables on the side, such as broccoli or zucchini
Sprinkle with extra parmesan and red pepper flakes for added heat and flavor
Enjoy as a comforting main course with a glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon
