When you need a cozy, hands-off dinner that feels like a hug in a bowl, this Slow Cooker Tomato Tortellini Soup is the answer. Loaded with Italian sausage, cheese-filled tortellini, and rich tomato flavor, it’s creamy, hearty, and bursting with comforting goodness.
The slow cooker does all the work — just brown your sausage, toss in the ingredients, and let it simmer to perfection. The result? A velvety tomato-cream broth infused with herbs, sausage, and cheesy pasta that makes every bite irresistible.
It’s the perfect meal for busy weeknights, cold days, or when you just want something warm and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Tomato Tortellini Soup
- Rich & creamy — the cream cheese melts into the broth for a silky finish.
- Full of flavor — Italian sausage and herbs create a bold, comforting base.
- Effortless to make — minimal prep, slow-cooked perfection.
- Family favorite — cheesy tortellini makes it a hit with everyone.
- Versatile — easily adapted for stovetop or vegetarian versions.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
This soup is the perfect combination of convenience and flavor. It tastes like something from a cozy Italian restaurant but is made right in your slow cooker. The slow simmering deepens the flavors of tomato, sausage, and herbs, while the cream cheese adds a luscious, creamy texture that makes every spoonful comforting.
Whether you’re feeding a crowd, prepping meals for the week, or craving a bowl of comfort, this recipe checks every box.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
- 1 (32 oz) container chicken broth
- 1 (28 oz) can petite diced tomatoes
- 2 cans (10.75 oz each) tomato soup (like Campbell’s)
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese spread with onions and chives
- 1 (18 oz) package frozen cheese tortellini
- Optional: fresh basil, parsley, or grated Parmesan for garnish
How to Make Slow Cooker Tomato Tortellini Soup (Step by Step)
Step 1: Cook the sausage
In a large skillet, brown the Italian sausage over medium heat until cooked through. Drain excess grease and transfer the sausage to your slow cooker.
Step 2: Add the base ingredients
Add chicken broth, diced tomatoes (with juices), and tomato soup to the crockpot. Stir to combine.
Step 3: Slow cook
Cover and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, letting the flavors blend together.
Step 4: Add cream cheese & tortellini
About 30 minutes before serving, add the cream cheese and frozen tortellini. Stir well, cover again, and cook for another 15–30 minutes, or until the tortellini are tender and the cream cheese has melted into the soup.
Step 5: Stir and serve
Give the soup a final stir to ensure the cream cheese is fully incorporated. Serve hot with a sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh herbs if desired.
Tips for the Best Tomato Tortellini Soup
- Brown the sausage first — it adds depth and prevents excess grease.
- Use full-fat cream cheese — melts smoother and gives the best texture.
- Add the tortellini last — prevents overcooking and sogginess.
- Taste before serving — adjust salt and seasoning if needed.
- Stir occasionally — especially after adding the cream cheese.
- Want it spicier? Use hot Italian sausage or add red pepper flakes.
- Use quality broth — it makes a noticeable flavor difference.
- For a thicker soup, remove the lid in the last 20 minutes of cooking.
- Make it extra creamy — stir in ½ cup heavy cream before serving.
- Garnish like a pro — fresh basil or Parmesan elevates every bowl.
Variations & Substitutions
- Breakfast Sausage: Works great if you’re out of Italian sausage.
- Vegetarian Version: Omit sausage and use vegetable broth with veggie tortellini.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or crushed red pepper flakes.
- Extra Veggies: Toss in spinach, kale, or mushrooms near the end.
- Tomato Basil Twist: Use basil-flavored tomato soup and add fresh basil leaves.
- Pesto Finish: Stir in a spoonful of pesto before serving for brightness.
- White Cream Version: Skip tomato soup and add more cream cheese and broth for a white sauce base.
- Bacon Lover’s Edition: Sprinkle cooked bacon on top for smoky flavor.
- Cheese Upgrade: Use Boursin cheese spread for a gourmet touch.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free tortellini or pasta.
What to Serve With Tomato Tortellini Soup
- Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks
- Simple green salad with Italian dressing
- Roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers
- Caesar salad for a classic pairing
- Glass of red wine — Chianti or Merlot complements it perfectly
Storage & Reheating Tips
To Store:
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
To Freeze:
Freeze the soup before adding the tortellini for up to 3 months. Add fresh tortellini after thawing and reheating.
To Reheat:
Warm on the stovetop over medium heat or microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring often. Add a splash of broth or cream if it thickens.
Recipe FAQs
Can I make this on the stovetop?
Yes! Simmer the soup for about 1 hour, then add the cream cheese and tortellini for the last 20–30 minutes.
Can I use refrigerated tortellini instead of frozen?
Absolutely — just reduce cooking time to about 10–15 minutes.
Can I use plain cream cheese?
Yes, but the onion and chive flavor adds a delicious savory boost.
Do I need to cook the tortellini first?
No — it cooks right in the soup.
Can I use ground turkey instead of sausage?
Yes, it’s a great lean option. Add Italian seasoning to boost flavor.
Why is my soup too thick?
It may reduce as it cooks — add more broth to thin it out.
Can I use milk instead of cream cheese?
Cream cheese gives the creamy texture, so milk won’t be quite the same.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, just use a larger slow cooker or divide between two.
What if my cream cheese doesn’t melt?
Cut it into cubes before adding — it’ll blend smoothly.
Can I use crushed tomatoes instead of diced?
Yes, for a smoother texture and slightly thicker broth.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Tomato Tortellini Soup is the definition of cozy comfort food — creamy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. The combination of sausage, tomatoes, tortellini, and cream cheese creates a perfectly balanced, hearty soup that’s guaranteed to be a family favorite.
It’s the kind of meal that makes your kitchen smell amazing and your heart feel warm — perfect for chilly evenings or lazy Sundays when you want a delicious dinner that practically cooks itself.