Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Tortellini Soup

INTRODUCTION

Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Tortellini Soup is a warm and comforting dish perfect for chilly days or when you need a quick and easy dinner. This soup brings together delicious flavors and the convenience of a slow cooker, allowing you to enjoy a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With its rich tomato base, fresh basil, and cheesy tortellini, this recipe is sure to become a favorite for you and your family.

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE

There are many reasons why you will love this Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Tortellini Soup. First, it is simple to make. The slow cooker does most of the work for you, letting you focus on other tasks while your meal cooks. Second, the combination of ingredients creates a rich, creamy texture that feels indulgent without being heavy. The tortellini adds a delightful bite, making the soup hearty and filling. Plus, it is a great way to sneak in vegetables without your family noticing. You can customize it with your favorite herbs and spices or even add extra vegetables for a healthier boost.

HOW TO MAKE Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Tortellini Soup

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

To make this soup, you will need the following equipment:

• A large skillet
• A 6 or 7-quart slow cooker
• A blender or an emulsion blender

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 3/4 cup diced carrots (3 medium)
• 1 3/4 cup diced yellow onion (1 large)
• 2 Tbsp olive oil
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 (28 oz) cans whole Roma tomatoes
• 1 (32 oz) carton vegetable broth
• 1/3 cup chopped fresh basil, plus more for garnish
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 Tbsp granulated sugar
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 16 oz refrigerated three cheese tortellini
• 3/4 cup heavy cream
• Parmesan, shredded, for serving

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS

1. Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced carrots and onion into the skillet. Sauté for about 3 to 4 minutes until they start to soften.
3. Next, add the 5 minced garlic cloves and sauté for 1 minute longer, allowing the garlic to smell great but not burn.
4. Now, pour this vegetable mixture into your slow cooker.
5. Add the 3 cans of whole Roma tomatoes, the 32 oz of vegetable broth, the chopped basil, the 2 bay leaves, and the 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar to the slow cooker.
6. Stir everything together and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
7. Cover your slow cooker and set it to cook on LOW for 6 to 7 hours, or on HIGH for 3 to 3.5 hours, depending on your schedule.
8. After the cooking time is up, remove the bay leaves from the soup.
9. Blend the mixture well in small batches in a blender, or use an emulsion blender for a smoother consistency.
10. Once blended, return the soup to the slow cooker and stir in the 16 oz of refrigerated three cheese tortellini.
11. Cover the slow cooker again and cook on HIGH heat for an additional 15 to 20 minutes or until the tortellini is heated through.
12. Finally, reduce the heat to warm and stir in 3/4 cup of heavy cream.
13. Serve the soup into bowls topped with shredded Parmesan cheese and more fresh basil for garnish.

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HOW TO SERVE Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Tortellini Soup

This soup is best served hot. Ladle it into individual bowls and top it off with a sprinkle of freshly shredded Parmesan cheese and some extra chopped basil for a fresh touch. You can pair this soup with crusty bread for dipping, a simple salad, or even grilled cheese sandwiches for a classic combination.

STORAGE & FREEZING: Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Tortellini Soup

Storing any leftovers from this soup is simple. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. If you want to freeze the soup, it is best to avoid adding the heavy cream and tortellini until you’re ready to eat it. Store the base of the soup in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw it and add the tortellini and cream before reheating.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

For a well-rounded meal, you might like to serve this soup with a side of garlic bread or a mixed green salad. Adding a splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can also elevate the flavors and provide some extra zing.

VARIATIONS

You can easily customize this soup to suit your taste. Here are a few ideas:

• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers if you want to pack in even more nutritious ingredients.
• Protein Boost: For added protein, consider including cooked chicken, sausage, or even beans.
• Dairy Alternatives: If you are lactose intolerant or prefer a non-dairy option, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cheese.

FAQs

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1. Can I use frozen tortellini instead of refrigerated?

Yes, you can use frozen tortellini. Just add a few extra minutes of cooking time once they are added to the soup.

2. How can I make this soup vegan?

To make it vegan, simply use vegetable broth, omit the heavy cream, or substitute it with a plant-based alternative. Also, ensure that your tortellini is vegan.

3. What if I don’t have canned whole tomatoes?

If you don’t have whole tomatoes, diced or crushed tomatoes work well too. Just be sure to adjust any additional liquid accordingly.

4. Can I make this soup on the stovetop instead of a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make this soup on the stovetop! Just cook all the ingredients in a large pot, simmer for about 30-40 minutes, and follow the rest of the instructions as detailed above.

MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Tortellini Soup

To make this dish even easier, you can prepare your chopped vegetables a day in advance. Store them in the fridge until you are ready to cook. You can also measure out your spices and seasonings ahead of time to have them ready when you need them. This way, when it’s time for dinner, you can simply bed everything into your slow cooker and let it do the work!

This Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Tortellini Soup is not just a recipe; it is a warm hug in a bowl. Easy to prepare and absolutely delicious, it is a great choice for busy weeknight dinners or cozy weekend lunches. Enjoy every comforting sip!

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