Half Baked Harvest's Slow Cooker Creamy Tortellini

Name: Half Baked Harvest's Slow Cooker Creamy Tortellini
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz cheese tortellini; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup diced tomatoes; 1 cup chopped spinach; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Parmesan cheese for serving

Highlighted under: Cozy Home-Cooked Recipes

Enjoy the rich flavors of creamy tortellini cooked to perfection in your slow cooker.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-06T19:33:54.489Z

This creamy tortellini dish is not only easy to make but also packed with flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and creamy texture that's incredibly satisfying
A perfect blend of cheese-filled tortellini and fresh vegetables
Convenient slow cooker method saves you time

      

The Comfort of Creamy Tortellini

Creamy tortellini is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings with friends and family. The combination of tender cheese-filled pasta and a luscious sauce creates a dish that warms the soul. Whether you’re enjoying a chilly evening at home or celebrating a special occasion, this slow cooker creamy tortellini will be a hit with everyone at the table.

One of the best aspects of this dish is its versatility. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins. For instance, consider incorporating mushrooms, bell peppers, or even cooked chicken to elevate the flavors and nutritional value. This makes it not only delicious but also adaptable to your personal preferences.

Slow Cooking Made Easy

Using a slow cooker for this creamy tortellini recipe is a game changer. It allows you to set it and forget it, freeing up your time for other tasks or simply relaxing. The slow cooking process melds the flavors together beautifully, resulting in a dish that tastes like you’ve spent hours in the kitchen, even though the preparation is incredibly straightforward.

With minimal hands-on time, all you need to do is chop your vegetables and let the slow cooker do the work. This method also ensures that the tortellini becomes perfectly tender without overcooking, maintaining its delightful bite. It's a win-win for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week ahead.

Ingredients

For the Creamy Tortellini

12 oz cheese tortellini
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup diced tomatoes
1 cup chopped spinach
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Parmesan cheese for serving

Gather all ingredients before starting for a smooth cooking experience.

Instructions

Prepare the Slow Cooker

In your slow cooker, combine the vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, onion, garlic, and Italian seasoning. Stir to combine.

Add Tortellini and Cream

Add the cheese tortellini and heavy cream to the slow cooker. Stir gently to coat the tortellini in the creamy mixture.

Cook

Cover and cook on low for 4 hours, or until the tortellini is heated through and the sauce is creamy.

Add Spinach and Serve

Stir in the chopped spinach just before serving. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve with grated Parmesan cheese on top.

Enjoy your delicious creamy tortellini!

Tips for Perfect Tortellini

To ensure your tortellini cooks perfectly, avoid adding it too early in the cooking process. Adding it halfway through the cooking time helps maintain the pasta's texture. Also, consider using fresh tortellini if available, as it tends to have a lighter texture and more pronounced flavor compared to frozen varieties.

If you want to enhance the dish further, try adding a splash of white wine or a teaspoon of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. These additions can elevate the flavor profile and make the dish even more satisfying.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy tortellini pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or garlic bread, making for a well-rounded meal. The freshness of a salad can cut through the richness of the dish, providing a delightful contrast in flavors and textures. Consider a simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing side.

For an added touch, garnish your tortellini with fresh basil or parsley before serving. Not only does this add a pop of color, but it also enhances the dish's aroma and taste. A sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can also add a nice kick if you're looking for a bit more heat.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen tortellini?

Yes, frozen tortellini works well. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

→ Is there a vegetarian option?

Absolutely! Just use vegetable broth and ensure your tortellini is meat-free.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it in the slow cooker and store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ What can I serve with creamy tortellini?

It pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.