Slow Cooker Cheesy Tortellini

why make this recipe

Slow Cooker Cheesy Tortellini is a cozy, comforting dish that checks off all the boxes for a fantastic meal. Its rich, cheesy flavor and blend of hearty ingredients make it a hit with families and friends alike. Plus, you don’t have to spend hours in the kitchen! The slow cooker takes care of the hard work while you go about your day or enjoy your evening. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without the fuss of cooking.

This recipe stands out because it brings together the ease of preparation, the deliciousness of melted cheese, and the wholesome goodness of pasta and meat. Each bite offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that everyone will love. It’s also highly customizable, so you can adjust it to suit your tastes or dietary needs.

how to make Slow Cooker Cheesy Tortellini

Making Slow Cooker Cheesy Tortellini is straightforward and quick. Here’s a step-by-step guide to prepare this tasty dish without any hassle.

Ingredients:

• 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 and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions:

1. Brown the Meat: Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef or Italian sausage. Cook it until it’s brown, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat to keep the dish from becoming too greasy. Set the meat aside.

2. Combine the Base Ingredients: Grab your slow cooker and add in the browned meat. Pour in the marinara sauce and the drained diced tomatoes. Stir everything together to ensure a good mix of flavors.

3. Add the Tortellini and Seasonings: Carefully add the cheese tortellini into the slow cooker. Then, measure and sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Use a spoon to stir and combine all the ingredients to make sure they are evenly distributed.

4. Pour in the Cream: Pour the heavy cream into the slow cooker. Stir again to ensure that the tortellini and meat are well coated with the creamy sauce. The cream adds a luxurious texture that complements the other ingredients beautifully.

5. Cook on Low: Cover the slow cooker. You can either cook on low for 4 to 6 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours, depending on your schedule and how soon you want to eat. The longer cook time on low allows for richer flavors to develop.

6. Add the Cheese: About 30 minutes before you plan to serve the dish, sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top. Stir gently to combine the melted cheese with the tortellini so that it melts into the dish.

7. Serve and Garnish: Once the cooking time is done, give the tortellini a good stir before serving. If you like, sprinkle fresh basil or parsley on top for a pop of color and added flavor. Enjoy this comforting dish with family or friends!

how to serve Slow Cooker Cheesy Tortellini

Serving Slow Cooker Cheesy Tortellini is easy and can be tailored to your meal setting. This dish shines as a comforting family dinner, but it can also be served at gatherings or potlucks.

Here are some serving ideas:

• Plating: Use a large ladle to scoop out portions into shallow bowls or plates. This allows each guest to enjoy the delicious cheesy goodness on their plate.

• Accompaniments: Pair the tortellini with a simple green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the hearty pasta. Garlic bread or breadsticks also make excellent sides to soak up the creamy sauce.

• Family Style: You can serve it right from the slow cooker on the table, allowing everyone to help themselves. Just keep it on the warm setting if you are serving it over an extended period.

• Individual Servings: For a more formal meal, consider presenting the tortellini in individual ramekins, topped with extra cheese and baked for a few minutes until golden.

• Leftovers: If you have leftovers, don’t worry! This dish is just as enjoyable the next day. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy again.

how to store Slow Cooker Cheesy Tortellini

Storing Slow Cooker Cheesy Tortellini correctly will keep it fresh for future meals. Here’s how to do it:

• Refrigeration: Allow the dish to cool to room temperature before storing to prevent condensation. Transfer the leftovers to an airtight container. It will last in the refrigerator for about 3 to 5 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

• Freezing: If you want to keep the dish for a longer period, you can freeze it. Place the cooled tortellini in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags. Make sure to label the bags with the date. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat it.

• Reheating Tips: For the best results, reheat the cheesy tortellini in a pot over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or cream if it looks too thick. Stir continuously to ensure even heating. You can also microwave it in intervals, stirring in between.

tips to make Slow Cooker Cheesy Tortellini

Here are some easy tips to consider when making Slow Cooker Cheesy Tortellini to ensure it turns out perfectly every time:

• Use Quality Ingredients: Since this recipe is simple, the quality of your ingredients will directly impact the flavor. Opt for fresh tortellini and high-quality marinara sauce for a richer taste.

• Texture: Be careful not to overcook the tortellini. Cooking it too long can make it mushy. If you’re in doubt, check the pasta a little earlier than the cooking time indicated.

• Cheese Variety: Feel free to mix and match cheeses to suit your preferences. A combination of cheddar, gouda, or even pepper jack can add different flavors. Just remember – the more melting cheese, the better!

• Add Vegetables: For extra nutrients, consider adding in some vegetables. Chopped spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini can be tossed in with the other ingredients without compromising the dish.

• Adjust Seasoning: Taste the mixture before serving and adjust the seasoning to your liking. If you prefer a bit more kick, you can add red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning.

• Serve Right: This dish is best served immediately after cooking while it’s still warm and cheesy. The flavors and textures are at their peak right out of the slow cooker.

variation

While Slow Cooker Cheesy Tortellini is fantastic as is, you can explore various variations to keep things interesting:

• Meatless Version: For those who prefer a vegetarian meal, skip the meat entirely and replace it with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach. You can add some extra beans like cannellini or chickpeas to ensure the meal is satisfying.

• Different Sauces: Instead of marinara, try different pasta sauces such as Alfredo or a garlic-white wine sauce. You can even mix and match two sauces for added flavor complexity.

• Different Proteins: Mix it up with different types of meat. Italian chicken sausage or ground turkey works well, too. You can also add rotisserie chicken for a quick and easy alternative.

• Spicy Tortellini: If you enjoy some heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or using spicy Italian sausage. A dash of hot sauce or crushed red pepper can also bring the spice level to your liking.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh tortellini instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh tortellini can be used instead of frozen. Just be mindful that fresh tortellini cooks faster, so you may need to reduce the cooking time in the slow cooker.

2. Can I make this dish in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare everything up to the cooking step and store it in the refrigerator for a day or two before cooking. Just remember to adjust the cooking time if the ingredients are chilled.

3. How do I know when the tortellini is done?

The tortellini should be tender but not mushy. Typically, they are done when they float to the top of the slow cooker and are heated through.

4. Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?

Yes, half-and-half can be used as a lighter alternative to heavy cream. It might not yield the same creaminess but will still provide a nice texture.

5. What should I do if my tortellini turns out too dry?

If the dish seems dryer than you expected after cooking, stir in a bit more cream or broth to loosen it up before serving.

Now you’re all set to try making this delicious Slow Cooker Cheesy Tortellini! This comforting dish is sure to become a favorite for you and your loved ones. Enjoy!

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