This Slow Cooker Sausage Tortellini Soup is hearty, creamy, and absolutely comforting.
With Italian sausage, plump cheese tortellini, and a rich tomato broth infused with onion and chive cream cheese—this one-pot wonder is the ultimate cozy dinner.
Just toss it in your slow cooker and let it simmer to perfection.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Effortless slow cooker meal — minimal prep, maximum flavor
Creamy and comforting — thanks to cream cheese and tomato soup
Perfect for meal prep — leftovers taste even better
Family favorite — kid-approved and crowd-pleasing
One-pot convenience — easy cleanup
Ingredient Highlights
Italian sausage: Adds bold, savory flavor to the soup
Chicken broth: Forms the base of the rich, savory broth
Diced tomatoes: Provide texture and tang
Tomato soup: Adds creaminess and extra tomato depth
Chive & onion cream cheese spread: Melts into the soup for a luscious finish
Refrigerated cheese tortellini: The star pasta, soft and cheesy
Pro Tips Before You Start
Brown the sausage first for best texture and flavor.
Use spicy Italian sausage if you want a kick.
Don’t overcook the tortellini—they should be tender but not mushy.
Stir the cream cheese in gradually to prevent clumps.
Make a double batch—it’s freezer-friendly before adding the tortellini!
How to Make Slow Cooker Sausage Tortellini Soup
Step 1: Cook the Sausage
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage until browned and cooked through.
Break it apart as it cooks.
Once done, drain excess fat if needed and transfer to your slow cooker.
Step 2: Build the Base
Add the chicken broth, canned petite diced tomatoes (with juices), and both cans of tomato soup to the slow cooker.
Stir to combine.
Step 3: Slow Cook
Cover and cook on LOW for 6 to 8 hours to allow the flavors to develop.
Step 4: Finish with Creaminess
About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the chive and onion cream cheese.
Mix well until fully melted into the broth.
Step 5: Add Tortellini
Add the refrigerated cheese tortellini.
Cover and cook on HIGH for 15 to 30 minutes, or until the tortellini are tender.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle into bowls and serve warm.
Optionally, garnish with fresh basil, grated Parmesan, or crushed red pepper.
What to Serve It With
Crusty garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks
A crisp green salad with balsamic vinaigrette
Roasted vegetables for a balanced meal
Variations & Substitutions
Use mild or spicy sausage depending on your taste.
Swap tortellini for mini ravioli or gnocchi.
Add spinach or kale during the last 5 minutes for a veggie boost.
Use plain cream cheese if chive & onion isn’t available.
Make it dairy-free with plant-based cream cheese and pasta.
Storage & Leftovers
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheat: Warm on the stove or in the microwave.
Freezing: Freeze without the tortellini for best texture. Add pasta fresh when reheating.
FAQs
Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes, just add 5–10 extra minutes to the cook time.
What if I don’t have chive and onion cream cheese?
You can use plain cream cheese and add chopped green onions.
Will the tortellini get mushy?
Not if you add them during the last 15–30 minutes only.
Can I make this soup spicy?
Absolutely—use hot Italian sausage and a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Is this soup gluten-free?
No, but you can make it gluten-free by using GF tortellini and checking your sausage and broth labels.
Can I make this on the stovetop?
Yes! Simmer the soup base for 20–30 minutes, then add cream cheese and tortellini and cook until pasta is done.
How do I keep the cream cheese from clumping?
Let it soften first, then stir in gradually or mix with a bit of hot broth before adding.
Final Thoughts
There’s something magical about a bowl of this Slow Cooker Sausage Tortellini Soup on a chilly evening. It’s rich, creamy, and packed with satisfying flavors that feel like a warm hug in a bowl.
Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this one is sure to become a regular favorite.
