Are you craving a comforting, delicious meal but short on time? Look no further! This Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Crock Pot recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It’s a simple, healthy meal packed with flavor that requires minimal effort – making it one of the best recipes for even the busiest schedules. Get ready to enjoy a fantastic homemade dinner without spending hours in the kitchen! This easy recipe is perfect for quick dinner ideas and is guaranteed to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1 (25-ounce) package cheese tortellini
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel), undrained
- 1 (15-ounce) container ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped fresh spinach, 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
Instructions:
Getting Started:
- Lightly grease your slow cooker. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Building Flavor:
- In a medium bowl, combine the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes and green chilies, ricotta cheese, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a flavorful sauce.
Assembling in the Crock Pot:
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Pour the sauce into the prepared slow cooker.
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Gently stir in the tortellini. Make sure they are mostly submerged in the sauce.
Cooking Process:
- Cook on low for 3-4 hours, or on high for 1.5-2 hours, or until the tortellini is cooked through and heated thoroughly. Stir gently halfway through cooking.
Finishing Touches:
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If using fresh spinach and basil, stir them in during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
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Serve immediately. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Tips for the Best Crock Pot Tortellini:
- Don't overcook: Overcooked tortellini can become mushy. Follow the cooking time guidelines closely.
- Adjust seasonings: Feel free to adjust the herbs and spices to your taste. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick!
- Add protein: For a heartier meal, add cooked chicken, sausage, or ground beef to the sauce.
- Make it vegetarian: Omit the meat additions, and add vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for a delicious vegetarian option.
- Use different cheeses: Experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or Asiago for a unique flavor profile.
Variations:
- Creamy Tomato Basil Tortellini: Omit the Rotel and add more fresh basil for a simpler, classic tomato flavor.
- Spicy Sausage Tortellini: Add 1 pound of Italian sausage, browned and crumbled, to the sauce for a heartier and spicier dish.
- Sun-dried Tomato and Spinach Tortellini: Substitute sun-dried tomatoes for the regular crushed tomatoes and add a cup of fresh spinach for a more complex flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. For a more accurate calculation, use a nutrition calculator and input your exact ingredients. Expect a moderately high calorie count due to the cheese and cream.
This creamy Tuscan tortellini is a delicious and convenient meal perfect for a busy weeknight. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing you to relax and enjoy the delicious results. It's a great example of healthy meals that are easy to prepare, making it a staple recipe for many. Enjoy!