Description
Discover how to make creamy crock pot tortellini with our step-by-step easy to bake guide. Enjoy the best flavor with this simple recipe!
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces (or ground Italian sausage)
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 3 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper (or to taste)
- 1 (20 oz) package fresh, refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (for garnish, optional)
- Optional add-ins: fresh spinach, sliced mushrooms, red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Step 1: Prep & Sauté (Optional but Recommended): Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces and cook until lightly browned on all sides. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes.
- Step 2: Combine in Crock Pot: Transfer the sautéed chicken, onion, and garlic (or raw ingredients if skipping sauté) to the slow cooker. Add diced tomatoes (undrained), chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Step 3: Initial Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 3-4 hours or on HIGH for 1.5-2 hours, until chicken is cooked through and flavors have melded.
- Step 4: Add Tortellini: Stir in the fresh tortellini. Cover and cook on HIGH for an additional 15-25 minutes, or until the tortellini is tender but still al dente. Do not overcook.
- Step 5: Finish with Cream & Cheese: Turn off the slow cooker. Stir in the softened cream cheese, heavy cream, shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Stir in fresh basil or any optional add-ins like spinach until wilted. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve hot.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 3-4 hours (low) + 15-25 mins