Slow Cooker Tomato Tortellini Soup

Craving a warm and comforting meal that practically cooks itself? This Slow Cooker Tomato Tortellini Soup is the perfect solution! Packed with flavor and hearty tortellini, this soup is sure to become a family favorite in no time.

Ingredients:

• 1 28-ounce can of crushed tomatoes
• 4 cups of vegetable broth
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon of dried basil
• 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 9 ounces of refrigerated tortellini
• 2 cups of fresh spinach
• Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Instructions:

• In a slow cooker, combine the crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, onion, garlic, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
• Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
• About 30 minutes before serving, add the tortellini and spinach to the slow cooker. Stir to combine and cook until the tortellini is tender.
• Serve hot with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top.

Popular Questions:

• Can I use canned spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can substitute canned spinach for fresh in this recipe. Just make sure to drain the canned spinach before adding it to the slow cooker.

• Can I use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth?

Yes, you can use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth for a slightly different flavor profile.

• Can I use dried tortellini instead of refrigerated?

You can use dried tortellini in this recipe, just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the tortellini.

• Can I freeze this soup?

This soup can be frozen, but the tortellini may become a bit mushy when reheated. Consider adding fresh tortellini when reheating the frozen soup.

• Can I add other vegetables to this soup?

You can customize this soup with additional vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers to add more flavor and nutrition.

• Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

You can certainly use fresh basil and oregano in this recipe. Just double the amount of fresh herbs compared to the dried herbs.

• Can I use a different type of cheese for serving?

Feel free to use your favorite cheese for serving this soup, such as shredded mozzarella or Romano cheese.

• Can I add meat to this soup?

If you’d like to add meat, cooked Italian sausage or shredded cooked chicken would be a delicious addition to this soup.

• What is the best way to store leftovers?

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

• Can I use other types of tortellini?

You can experiment with different flavors of tortellini, such as cheese-filled or spinach-filled, to switch up the taste of this soup.

Helpful Tips:

• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
• Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor.
• Try using a mix of cheese tortellini and spinach tortellini for a more varied taste.
• Add a splash of heavy cream for a creamier soup texture.
• Serve with a side of crusty bread for dipping.
• Top with a drizzle of olive oil for added richness.
• Experiment with different types of cheese for serving, such as Parmigiano-Reggiano or Pecorino Romano.
• For a vegetarian twist, try adding cooked chickpeas or white beans to the soup.
• Sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley over the soup before serving for a burst of freshness.
• Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end to brighten up the flavors.

Expert Secrets:

• Cook the onion and garlic in a skillet before adding them to the slow cooker for a deeper flavor.
• Use fire-roasted crushed tomatoes for a smoky undertone in the soup.
• Save some fresh basil to garnish each bowl individually for a fresh burst of flavor.
• Stir in a spoonful of pesto for an extra layer of flavor at the end of cooking.
• For a thicker soup, blend a portion of the cooked soup with an immersion blender before adding the tortellini.
• Use homemade vegetable broth for the best flavor, or choose a low-sodium store-bought option.
• Add a splash of balsamic vinegar for a hint of acidity that balances the richness of the soup.
• Season with a dash of Italian seasoning for a more robust herb flavor profile.
• For a dairy-free option, skip the Parmesan cheese and opt for a sprinkle of nutritional yeast instead.
• Top each bowl with a dollop of fresh ricotta cheese for a creamy finish.