Description
Crockpot tortellini beckons with Italian-inspired comfort, promising a rich and velvety journey through creamy pasta perfection. Cheese-filled tortellini nestled in a silky sauce will draw hungry diners to savor each delectable spoonful.
Ingredients
Scale
Tortellini and Cheese:
- 1 lb (450g) refrigerated or frozen cheese tortellini
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Liquids and Cream:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 ounces/411 grams) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
Seasonings and Herbs:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Coat the interior of your slow cooker with a light layer of olive oil to prevent sticking and enhance flavor release.
- Combine tortellini, heavy cream, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in the slow cooker, ensuring all ingredients are evenly distributed and well-mixed.
- Secure the lid and set the slow cooker to low temperature, allowing the mixture to gently simmer and develop rich, complex flavors for approximately 3-4 hours.
- Periodically check the consistency, stirring occasionally to prevent potential clumping and ensure even cooking of the pasta.
- When tortellini reaches a tender texture and the sauce has thickened to a luxurious, creamy consistency, incorporate the Parmesan cheese, stirring until completely melted and integrated.
- Let the dish rest for a few minutes to allow the sauce to further stabilize and develop depth.
- Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a vibrant garnish that adds both visual appeal and a subtle herbal note.
- Serve immediately while the dish is warm, ensuring each portion is generously coated with the velvety sauce.
Notes
- Customize tortellini’s texture by selecting different types like fresh, frozen, or cheese-filled varieties to match your preference.
- Reduce creaminess by substituting half-and-half or whole milk for heavy cream, creating a lighter version without sacrificing rich flavor.
- Control sodium levels by using low-sodium chicken broth and reducing added salt, making the dish more heart-friendly.
- Enhance protein content by adding cooked shredded chicken or crispy bacon bits before serving for extra depth and nutrition.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours (on Low) or 2 hours (on High)
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 490
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 18 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 42 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 17 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg