Description
This creamy Crockpot Tortellini Alfredo is an effortless, comforting meal perfect for busy days. Tender cheese tortellini simmers slowly in a rich Alfredo sauce blended with cream cheese and heavy cream, while fresh spinach adds a vibrant touch. Finished with Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and optional red pepper flakes and parsley, this recipe delivers a luscious, flavorful dish with minimal hands-on time.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 20 oz cheese tortellini (refrigerated or frozen)
- 2 cups Alfredo sauce (jarred or homemade)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 oz cream cheese, cubed
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Add Dairy Base: Add the Alfredo sauce, heavy cream, and cubed cream cheese to the crockpot. Stir gently to help the cream cheese start melting into the sauce base.
- Add Tortellini: Place the cheese tortellini on top of the sauce mixture without stirring, ensuring they cook evenly on top.
- Add Spinach: Spread the fresh spinach evenly over the tortellini to wilt and integrate flavors during cooking.
- Cook Low and Slow: Cover and cook on low heat for 3 to 4 hours if using refrigerated tortellini, or 3.5 to 4.5 hours if using frozen, until the tortellini is tender.
- Finish and Season: Once cooked, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and garlic powder thoroughly. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with optional red pepper flakes and chopped fresh parsley for flavor and color. Serve hot immediately.
Notes
- Use frozen or refrigerated tortellini according to your preference; just adjust cook time accordingly.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, but the sauce will be less rich.
- You can add cooked chicken or mushrooms before cooking for extra protein and flavor.
- If the sauce looks too thick at the end, stir in a splash of milk or pasta water to loosen it.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently to prevent sauce separation.
