Step 1 — Build the Base
In your slow cooker, add:
Chicken broth
Crushed tomatoes
Diced tomatoes
Onion
Garlic
Italian seasoning
Salt & pepper
Stir well.
Step 2 — Slow Cook the Flavor
Cook on:
LOW for 6–7 hours, or
HIGH for 3–4 hours
This allows the tomato base to deepen and mellow.
Step 3 — Add the Tortellini
Stir in the tortellini during the last:
20–25 minutes on HIGH, or
30–40 minutes on LOW
Cook until pasta is soft but not falling apart.
Step 4 — Make It Creamy
Stir in:
Heavy cream
Parmesan cheese
Let melt together for 5–10 minutes.
Step 5 — Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning.
Add fresh basil or parsley.
Serve warm with crusty bread or grilled cheese.
20 Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes — add straight from the freezer.
2. Can I use canned ravioli instead?
Yes — add during the last 10 minutes.
3. Can I make this vegetarian?
Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
4. Can I use crushed tomatoes only?
Yes — soup will be smoother.
5. Can I add meat?
Browned Italian sausage or shredded chicken works great.
6. Can I use milk instead of cream?
Heavy cream or half-and-half works best; milk may curdle.
7. Will coconut milk work?
Yes — for a dairy-free version.
8. Can I add spinach?
Yes — stir in during the last 5 minutes.
9. Can I cook tortellini the entire time?
No — it will turn mushy.
10. Can I freeze leftovers?
Freeze without tortellini, then add fresh later.
11. Can I add sugar to cut acidity?
Yes — ½ to 1 tsp helps balance the tomatoes.
12. Can I make this on the stove?
Yes — simmer 30 minutes, then add tortellini.
13. Can I double the recipe?
Yes — use an 8-qt slow cooker.
14. Can I use tomato sauce instead of crushed tomatoes?
Yes — but soup will be smoother.
15. Can I add cream cheese?
YES — adds incredible richness.
16. Why did my soup curdle?
Add cream at the END on low heat.
17. Can I add basil pesto?
Absolutely — 1 tablespoon transforms the flavor.
18. Can I use pre-shredded Parmesan?
Fresh melts better and tastes richer.
19. Can I use spicy Italian seasoning?
Yes — adds kick.
20. Will gluten-free tortellini work?
Yes — but cook only 10–15 minutes to avoid breaking apart.
