Step-by-Step Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
- Transfer the cooked beef to your slow cooker.
- Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream.
- Add the cream cheese cubes, ranch seasoning, minced garlic, and black pepper. Don’t stir yet.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 3 to 4 hours, until the sauce is creamy and smooth.
- After cooking, stir well to combine. Then, add the tortellini and shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Cover and cook on LOW for another 20 to 30 minutes, just until the tortellini is tender.
- Stir gently and garnish with parsley before serving hot.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Slow Cooker Creamy Ranch Beef Tortellini is delectable on its own, but there are plenty of ways to elevate your meal. Serve it with a side salad drizzled in balsamic vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. Crusty garlic bread would perfectly complement the creamy sauce, and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan adds an extra cheesy punch.
How to Store & Freeze
To keep your leftovers fresh, store any remaining tortellini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. For longer storage, this dish freezes beautifully! Just portion it into freezer-safe containers, and it can last up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Helpful Cooking Tips
- Don’t skip browning the beef! This step adds depth and enhances the overall flavor of your dish.
- If you prefer a little spice, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce while it’s cooking.
- For a veggie boost, toss in some spinach or chopped bell peppers in the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Creative Twists
Feeling adventurous? Here are some fun variations to try:
- Swap the ranch seasoning for Italian herbs for a different flavor profile.
- Use different cheese tortellini varieties, such as spinach or mushroom, to introduce new tastes to the dish.
- Top with crispy bacon or sautéed mushrooms for added texture and flavor.
FAQs
What is the prep time for Slow Cooker Creamy Ranch Beef Tortellini?
Prep time is about 10-15 minutes, including browning the meat and chopping garlic.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the ingredients in advance and store them separately in the fridge, then combine them in the slow cooker when you’re ready to cook.
How long does it take to cook in the slow cooker?
Cook on LOW for 3–4 hours for a creamy sauce, then add tortellini and cook for an additional 20-30 minutes.
With the comforting warmth of this dish enveloped in creamy ranch flavor, you’ll find Slow Cooker Creamy Ranch Beef Tortellini to be not only straightforward to prepare but also wonderfully satisfying. It’s a recipe that’s bound to make your weeknight dinners both simple and scrumptious. Happy cooking!
