Slow Cooker Cheesy Tortellini

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Why Make This Recipe

Slow Cooker Cheesy Tortellini is a wonderful dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to the table. If you are looking for a meal that is easy to prepare, delicious, and perfect for busy days, this recipe is just for you. Here’s why you should make this dish:

Convenience: The slow cooker does most of the work for you. You can prepare everything in the morning and return home to a warm, cheesy meal. This makes it perfect for busy families or anyone with a packed schedule.
Flavorful: With the combination of cheese tortellini, ground beef or Italian sausage, and creamy marinara sauce, this dish is full of rich flavors. The addition of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese provides a delightful cheesy texture that everyone loves.
Customizable: You can easily adjust this recipe to suit your tastes. Whether you want to add more vegetables, substitute different meats, or even go meatless, the options are endless. This flexibility makes it a great option for everyone.
Feeds a Crowd: This recipe is generous in portion sizes, making it great for family dinners or gatherings with friends. Serve it with a side salad and some crusty bread for a complete meal.
Kid-Friendly: Kids love cheesy pasta dishes, and this one is no exception! The familiar flavors of tortellini and creamy cheese are sure to please young palates.

Now that you know why Slow Cooker Cheesy Tortellini is a great choice, let’s dive into how to make this delicious dish.

How to Make Slow Cooker Cheesy Tortellini

Making Slow Cooker Cheesy Tortellini is easy and straightforward. Follow the steps outlined below, and you will have a comforting and satisfying meal ready in just a few hours.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this cheesy dish:

20 oz cheese tortellini
1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
24 oz marinara sauce
15 oz diced tomatoes
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
1 cup heavy cream
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste
Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish, optional)

Directions

Follow these simple steps to prepare Slow Cooker Cheesy Tortellini:

Brown the Meat: Start by browning the ground beef or Italian sausage in a skillet over medium heat. Use a spatula to break up the meat as it cooks. This step will help develop flavor, and browning the meat is essential for a delicious base. Once cooked, drain any excess fat to keep the dish lighter.
Combine in Slow Cooker: Next, in a slow cooker, combine the browned meat with the marinara sauce and drained diced tomatoes. Mix these ingredients well. They will form a delightful sauce that envelops the tortellini later.
Add Tortellini and Seasoning: Carefully add the cheese tortellini to the slow cooker, followed by the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything gently to combine, ensuring that the tortellini is well-coated with the sauce.
Pour in Heavy Cream: Now, it’s time to add the heavy cream. Pour it over the tortellini, mixing again to coat the pasta thoroughly. The heavy cream adds richness and a smooth texture that makes the finished dish irresistible.
Cook: Cover your slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 4 to 6 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours. This slow cooking will allow all the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Add Cheeses: About 30 minutes before serving the dish, add the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese to the slow cooker. Stir gently to combine these cheesy delights into the mix. They will melt and create a luscious cheese layer on top of the tortellini.
Serve: After the cooking time is complete, stir the dish one last time before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired, and enjoy your delicious meal!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Cheesy Tortellini

Slow Cooker Cheesy Tortellini can be served in various ways to suit your preferences. Here are a few suggestions for serving this hearty dish:

With Salad: Pair this cheesy tortellini with a fresh green salad. The crispness of the salad will complement the creamy tortellini nicely.
With Bread: Serve warm, crusty bread or garlic bread on the side. You can use it to soak up the flavors of the marinara sauce.
Toppings: Aside from fresh basil or parsley for garnish, consider offering grated Parmesan or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
Portion Control: Since this dish is quite filling, consider serving it in smaller bowls for an appetizing presentation. You can always go back for seconds!
Meal Prep: This dish makes great leftovers. Prepare it in advance, then reheat it for a quick and easy meal later in the week.

How to Store Slow Cooker Cheesy Tortellini

If you happen to have leftovers (which is likely, given the generous portions), storing them is easy. Here’s how to store your Slow Cooker Cheesy Tortellini:

Cool Down: Allow the dish to cool down to room temperature before storing. This helps prevent condensation and keeps the tortellini from becoming mushy.
Airtight Container: Transfer the leftovers to an airtight container. Make sure the lid seals tightly to keep out air.
Refrigerate: Store the container in the refrigerator. The dish will stay fresh for about 3 to 5 days.
Freezing: If you wish to keep the dish for a longer time, you can freeze it. Use a freezer-safe container and label it with the date. The tortellini will be best used within 2 to 3 months for optimal taste and texture.
Reheating: To reheat, add the leftovers to a pot on the stovetop or warm them in the microwave. If reheating on the stovetop, add a splash of water or extra marinara sauce to prevent the dish from drying out.

Tips to Make Slow Cooker Cheesy Tortellini

The following tips can help you achieve the best results with your Slow Cooker Cheesy Tortellini:

Use Fresh Tortellini: If available, fresh cheese tortellini tastes even better than frozen. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as fresh tortellini may require less time to cook.
Add Vegetables: Consider adding spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the slow cooker for extra nutrition and flavor. Simply chop the vegetables and add them at the same time as the other ingredients.
Season to Taste: Feel free to adjust the garlic and onion powder according to your preference. If you love garlic, don’t hold back!
Make it Spicy: If you like some heat, include red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when you combine the ingredients.
Check for Doneness: Cooking times may vary depending on your slow cooker. Check the tortellini for doneness before serving, especially if you are on a time crunch.

Variation

While the classic recipe is delicious, you can also try variations of Slow Cooker Cheesy Tortellini to keep it fresh and exciting:

Meatless Version: Replace the ground meat with a variety of vegetables or tofu for a vegetarian-friendly meal. You can also use plant-based sausage for a vegan option.
Different Sauces: Instead of marinara sauce, try using Alfredo sauce or a combination of both for a creamy twist.
Add Beans: For added protein and texture, toss in some canned beans, such as cannellini or black beans.
Pesto Tortellini: Incorporate pesto sauce for a fresh and herby flavor. Just stir in a few tablespoons of pesto to the sauce mixture before adding the tortellini.
Cheesy Broccoli: Add steamed broccoli or cauliflower florets into the slow cooker for added vegetables and nutrition.

FAQs

Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes, you can use frozen cheese tortellini. Just toss it directly into the slow cooker with the other ingredients and follow the same cooking instructions. The cooking time may remain the same, but check for doneness.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare everything in the slow cooker the night before and store it in the refrigerator. In the morning, simply plug in the slow cooker to cook while you go about your day.
How do I know when it’s done?
The tortellini should be tender and easily pierced with a fork. If it’s still firm, continue cooking and check every 15 minutes until it reaches your desired texture.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Store the leftovers in a freezer-safe container and make sure to label it with the date. It’s best to consume them within 2 to 3 months for optimal flavor.
How do I reheat Slow Cooker Cheesy Tortellini?
You can reheat it on the stovetop or in a microwave. If using the stovetop, add a splash of marinara sauce or water to prevent it from drying out. In the microwave, heat in short bursts, stirring in between until warmed through.

Slow Cooker Cheesy Tortellini is a simple yet satisfying dish that you can enjoy time and again. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this recipe will surely become a favorite in your home.