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: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 package (20 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup diced tomatoes; 1 cup spinach, chopped; 1 onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Enjoy a comforting bowl of Half Baked Harvest's Slow Cooker Creamy Tortellini, perfect for any weeknight dinner.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-06T15:14:22.279Z

This creamy tortellini dish is a perfect comfort food that will warm your heart and fill your belly. Cooked slowly to perfection, it's a hassle-free meal that tastes like a labor of love.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and creamy texture that satisfies every craving
Packed with flavor and wholesome ingredients
Easily adaptable for different dietary preferences

      

The Perfect Comfort Food

When the weather turns chilly or you're simply in need of a cozy meal, Half Baked Harvest's Slow Cooker Creamy Tortellini is the ideal choice. This dish combines the rich flavors of cheese tortellini with a creamy sauce, creating a comforting bowl that warms you from the inside out. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, as you can prep everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work while you attend to other tasks.

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its versatility. You can easily modify it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Whether you want to add some protein like chicken or sausage, or replace the heavy cream with a lighter alternative, this dish can adapt to fit any requirement. It's a great way to enjoy a meal that feels indulgent while still being mindful of your health.

Tips for Perfect Tortellini

To ensure your tortellini comes out perfectly tender, be mindful of the cooking time. Overcooking can lead to mushy pasta, so it’s best to check for doneness a little before the timer goes off. Every slow cooker is different, and factors like the size and type can impact cooking times. Monitoring closely will help you achieve that ideal texture.

Another tip is to sauté the onions and garlic before adding them to the slow cooker. This can enhance their flavors and add a depth to the overall dish that makes it even more delightful. However, if you're pressed for time, feel free to skip this step—your creamy tortellini will still be delicious!

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Slow Cooker Creamy Tortellini with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley for an extra pop of flavor and color. A side of crusty bread or a simple green salad pairs wonderfully with this dish, making it a complete meal that satisfies both your taste buds and your hunger.

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce before serving. This can elevate the dish and provide a delightful contrast to the creamy sauce. No matter how you choose to enjoy it, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your household.

Ingredients

For the Creamy Tortellini

1 package (20 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup diced tomatoes
1 cup spinach, chopped
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Gather all ingredients and prepare them before starting the cooking process.

Instructions

Prepare the Slow Cooker

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

Add Tortellini and Cream

Next, add the cheese tortellini and heavy cream to the slow cooker. Mix until the tortellini is well coated with the sauce.

Cook

Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for about 4 hours, or until the tortellini is tender.

Finish with Spinach and Cheese

In the last 10 minutes of cooking, add the chopped spinach and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the spinach wilts and the cheese is melted.

Once done, serve warm and enjoy your creamy tortellini!

Storage and Reheating

Leftovers of this creamy tortellini dish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This makes it a great option for meal prep, as you can enjoy it for lunch or dinner throughout the week. When reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth or cream to the pasta to help restore its creamy texture.

If you want to freeze the leftovers, it’s best to do so before adding the spinach and cheese. Once thawed, you can then incorporate these ingredients for optimal freshness. Simply let the frozen tortellini thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Nutritional Benefits

This Slow Cooker Creamy Tortellini is not only delicious but also provides several nutritional benefits. The spinach adds a boost of vitamins and minerals, including iron and Vitamin K, which are essential for maintaining good health. Incorporating vegetables into your meals is a great way to enhance their nutritional value without sacrificing flavor.

The use of cheese tortellini provides a good source of carbohydrates and protein, making this dish filling and satisfying. If you're looking to boost the nutritional content further, consider adding more vegetables or even a lean protein source, such as grilled chicken or chickpeas, to make it even heartier.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen tortellini?

Yes, you can use frozen tortellini; just add an extra hour to the cooking time.

→ Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Just use vegetable broth and omit any meat products.

→ How long can leftovers be stored?

Leftovers can be stored 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 when ready to serve.