Half Baked Harvest's Slow Cooker Creamy Tortellini
Highlighted under: Warm Bowl Creations
Enjoy the comforting flavors of creamy tortellini made effortlessly in your slow cooker.
This creamy tortellini recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, combining rich flavors and a delightful texture that everyone will love.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy texture that warms your soul
- Rich flavors with minimal effort
- Perfect for cozy family dinners
The Comfort of Slow Cooking
Slow cooking is one of the most convenient methods of preparing meals, especially on busy weekdays. With just a few minutes of prep, you can set your slow cooker and forget about it, allowing the ingredients to meld together beautifully. The slow cooking process enhances the flavors of the dish, resulting in a rich and comforting meal that tastes like it has been simmering for hours.
This creamy tortellini recipe is a perfect example of how slow cooking can transform simple ingredients into something spectacular. The low and slow method allows the tortellini to absorb the savory flavors of the broth and seasonings, creating a dish that is both satisfying and delicious. You’ll love coming home to a warm bowl of creamy goodness waiting for you.
Versatile and Customizable
One of the best aspects of this creamy tortellini recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your taste or use what you have on hand. Feel free to swap in different vegetables such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor. You can also experiment with different types of tortellini, such as spinach or mushroom, to create unique variations.
Additionally, if you're looking to add some protein, shredded chicken or cooked sausage can be great additions. Just toss them in with the tortellini to make the dish even heartier. This recipe is not just a meal; it’s a canvas for your culinary creativity.
Perfect Pairings
Creamy tortellini pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and beverages, making it an excellent choice for a family dinner or gathering. A fresh garden salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish perfectly. You can also serve it with crusty bread or garlic knots to soak up the creamy sauce, ensuring that no delicious bite goes to waste.
For those looking to elevate their dining experience, consider pairing your creamy tortellini with a glass of white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. These wines offer a crisp contrast to the rich flavors of the dish, creating a delightful balance that will impress your guests.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 package (9 oz) cheese tortellini
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Gather all ingredients before starting for a smooth cooking process.
Instructions
Prep the Ingredients
In a slow cooker, combine the diced onion, minced garlic, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and Italian seasoning.
Add Tortellini
Add the cheese tortellini to the slow cooker, stirring gently to combine.
Cook the Mixture
Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or high for 2 hours until the tortellini is tender.
Finish with Cream and Spinach
Stir in the heavy cream and chopped spinach, cooking for an additional 30 minutes on low until the spinach is wilted.
Serve
Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and enjoy your creamy tortellini!
Make sure to adjust seasonings to your taste before serving.
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, storing them is easy! Allow the creamy tortellini to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it a convenient option for meal prep or quick lunches.
When reheating, you can use the microwave or stovetop. If the dish seems too thick after being refrigerated, you can add a splash of broth or cream to restore its creamy consistency. Enjoying this comforting meal again will be just as satisfying as the first time.
Nutritional Benefits
This creamy tortellini dish not only satisfies your cravings but also provides nutritional benefits. The spinach adds a boost of vitamins A, C, and K, along with essential minerals like iron and calcium. By incorporating vegetables into your meals, you’re enhancing both the flavor and nutritional profile.
Furthermore, tortellini made from whole wheat or enriched pasta can provide additional fiber and protein, making this dish a well-rounded option for your family. It's a great way to introduce more greens and nutrients while keeping mealtime enjoyable and delicious.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes, frozen tortellini works well in this recipe; just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
→ Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just ensure that the broth is vegetable-based and omit any meat.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze the creamy tortellini for up to 2 months. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove.
Half Baked Harvest's Slow Cooker Creamy Tortellini
Enjoy the comforting flavors of creamy tortellini made effortlessly in your slow cooker.
Created by: Tom
Recipe Type: Warm Bowl Creations
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 1 package (9 oz) cheese tortellini
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
How-To Steps
In a slow cooker, combine the diced onion, minced garlic, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and Italian seasoning.
Add the cheese tortellini to the slow cooker, stirring gently to combine.
Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or high for 2 hours until the tortellini is tender.
Stir in the heavy cream and chopped spinach, cooking for an additional 30 minutes on low until the spinach is wilted.
Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and enjoy your creamy tortellini!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 6g