There’s something magical about the way a slow cooker transforms simple ingredients into cozy, flavorful comfort. And this Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage is a perfect example — creamy, smoky, and rich with Italian flavor that fills your kitchen long before dinner’s ready.
This recipe came to me one chilly evening when I had a package of tortellini in the fridge, a little sausage in the freezer, and not much else. I tossed everything in the slow cooker, crossed my fingers, and by the time the sun set over the Blue Ridge Mountains, the house smelled like an Italian restaurant.
Whether you’re after easy crock pot dinners for families, a comforting weeknight meal, or an affordable way to stretch a pound of sausage into something hearty, this recipe checks every box.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage
- Rich, creamy flavor: The cheese-filled tortellini soaks up all the smoky, garlicky sausage sauce.
- One-pot ease: No separate boiling or baking — everything happens in your slow cooker.
- Budget-friendly: Perfect for those looking for crockpot cheap recipes that still feel indulgent.
- Family-approved: Even picky eaters love it — it’s hearty, cheesy, and comforting.
- Versatile: Works with Italian sausage, smoked sausage, or even kielbasa for a flavor twist.
- Great leftovers: The flavors deepen overnight — perfect for meal prep or busy weeknights.
When it comes to sausage recipes in the crockpot, this one wins hearts with every bite.
Ingredients
- 1 lb smoked sausage or Italian sausage (sliced into ½-inch rounds)
- 1 (20 oz) package cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara or tomato basil pasta sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter version)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 cups fresh spinach (optional but adds color and freshness)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Brown the sausage:
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sausage and cook until lightly browned. This step isn’t required, but it brings out the smoky, caramelized flavor that makes this dish irresistible. - Layer in the slow cooker:
Add browned sausage, diced onion, and garlic to the crockpot. Pour in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine. - Add the tortellini:
Gently fold in the cheese tortellini — if using frozen, no need to thaw. - Creamy finish:
Stir in heavy cream and half the mozzarella cheese. Cover with the lid. - Cook:
Cook on Low for 4–5 hours or High for 2–3 hours, until the tortellini are tender and the sauce has thickened into a creamy, cheesy dream. - Add spinach & finish:
About 15 minutes before serving, stir in the spinach and top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Cover until melted. - Serve hot:
Give it a final stir and serve straight from the crockpot with garlic bread or a side salad.
Your house will smell divine, the sauce will bubble gently, and everyone will gather around before you even call them to dinner.
How to Serve Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage
This recipe doesn’t need much fanfare — it’s hearty enough to stand alone. But if you love building a meal around a comforting centerpiece, there are a few ways to elevate your Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage.
On busy weeknights, I serve it straight from the crockpot with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan and some crusty garlic bread. It’s one of those easy crock pot dinners for families that makes everyone feel spoiled without extra effort.
For a cozier fall dinner, pair it with roasted vegetables or a side of Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese for the ultimate comfort spread.
In the summer, this recipe transforms easily — serve smaller portions with a green salad or even chilled for a picnic-style pasta bowl. The creamy sauce holds up beautifully, making it perfect for tortellini crock pot recipes that travel well or feed a crowd.
How to Store Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage
If you’re anything like me, you’ll want leftovers — they might even taste better the next day.
- Refrigerate: Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
- Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.
- Freeze: This dish freezes surprisingly well! Place cooled portions in freezer-safe bags or containers and store for up to 3 months.
For best results, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
It’s a great way to stretch your dollar and plan ahead with crockpot cheap recipes that still feel indulgent.
Discover great ideas like Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes for more freezer-friendly favorites.
Tips to Make Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage
A few simple tricks can take this from good to unforgettable:
- Brown the sausage: It deepens the flavor and prevents excess grease.
- Don’t overcook the pasta: If using fresh tortellini, check at 3 hours on Low.
- Add greens at the end: Spinach or kale adds color and freshness without overcooking.
- Use smoked sausage for bold flavor: It brings a hint of barbecue sweetness.
- Try different cheeses: Asiago, provolone, or ricotta work beautifully in place of mozzarella.
- Make it spicy: Add extra crushed red pepper or a dash of cayenne.
- Turn it into a soup: Add 2 cups of chicken broth at the start for a creamy tortellini soup version.
Looking for inspiration? Try our cozy White Chicken Chili — another hearty slow-cooked dish full of flavor.
Variations of Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage
This dish is endlessly flexible. Here are my favorite twists:
- Kielbasa and Tortellini: Swap Italian sausage for sliced kielbasa for smoky flavor and a nod to Kielbasa and Tortellini Recipes Crockpot.
- Creamy Tomato Alfredo: Mix half marinara, half Alfredo sauce for ultra-rich creaminess.
- Spicy Cajun Style: Add smoked sausage, Cajun seasoning, and bell peppers.
- Vegetable Lover’s Version: Add mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers in the last hour.
- Lighten it up: Use turkey sausage and reduced-fat cream for a healthier option.
- Cheese Explosion: Sprinkle extra mozzarella and bake for 10 minutes after slow cooking for a golden top.
It’s a dish that adjusts beautifully to your pantry and your mood — rich enough for special nights, simple enough for a Tuesday dinner.
FAQs
Q1: Can I make this recipe without cream?
Yes! Substitute with evaporated milk or a mix of milk and cream cheese for a lighter version.
Q2: Can I use frozen tortellini?
Absolutely. Just add about 30 extra minutes of cook time on Low.
Q3: What sausage works best?
Both smoked sausage and Italian sausage are fantastic — smoked adds sweetness, Italian adds spice.
Q4: How can I make this vegetarian?
Use meatless sausage or add extra mushrooms and spinach for a hearty meat-free version.
Final Thoughts
There’s a certain comfort in recipes that feel like they’ve been simmering all afternoon — slow-cooked, full of depth, and made with love. Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage brings all that in one pot.
It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table, forks ready, conversations flowing, and plates wiped clean. Whether it’s a lazy Sunday dinner, a chilly fall night, or a cozy weekend with family, this creamy crockpot classic will become a staple in your kitchen.
Follow me on Facebook and Pinterest where I share cozy, easy-to-make baking recipes just like this one.
Print
Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage
- Total Time: 5 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
A creamy, cheesy slow cooker pasta with smoky sausage and rich tomato sauce – pure comfort for weeknights or family dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 lb smoked sausage or Italian sausage, sliced
- 1 (20 oz) package cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara or tomato basil sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 cups fresh spinach (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
1. Brown sausage in olive oil over medium heat until lightly browned.
2. Add sausage, onion, garlic, marinara, Italian seasoning, and pepper to slow cooker.
3. Stir in tortellini, heavy cream, and half of the mozzarella cheese.
4. Cook on Low for 4-5 hours or High for 2-3 hours.
5. Add spinach 15 minutes before serving and top with remaining cheeses.
6. Serve warm with garlic bread or salad.
Notes
Use smoked sausage for a sweet, smoky flavor or Italian for spice.
Add mushrooms or peppers for extra veggies.
Store leftovers up to 4 days; freezes up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 hours
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 980mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 85mg