If you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, you’re going to love this Slow Cooker Tomato Tortellini Soup with Ground Beef Recipe. It’s the perfect blend of savory ground beef, tender cheese tortellini, and rich tomato flavors, slow-cooked to perfection so all the tastes meld beautifully. Whether it’s a chilly evening or you simply want a fuss-free dish loaded with comforting goodness, this soup will quickly become one of your favorite go-to recipes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, straightforward ingredients is what makes this soup so accessible, yet each one plays a vital role in delivering deep flavor, wonderful texture, and vibrant color. Here’s what you’ll want on hand before starting your Slow Cooker Tomato Tortellini Soup with Ground Beef Recipe:
- 1 pound ground beef: Provides savory richness and a meaty base for the soup.
- 1 small yellow onion, diced: Adds subtle sweetness and aromatic depth.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Gives a fragrant, flavorful boost that complements the beef.
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes: Brings a tangy, robust tomato essence perfect for the slow cooker.
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce: Adds smoothness and intensifies the tomato flavor.
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can beef broth: Creates a savory liquid base to unify all ingredients.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Offers a sweet, herbaceous note that brightens the soup.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Contributes an earthy, slightly peppery flavor for complexity.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances every element without overwhelming.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds gentle warmth and a hint of spice.
- 1 (9-ounce) package refrigerated or frozen cheese tortellini: Brings gooey, cheesy pockets of deliciousness in every bite.
- ½ cup heavy cream: Makes the soup luxuriously creamy and balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
- 1 cup baby spinach (optional): For a fresh, nutritious pop of color and mild flavor.
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving: A salty, nutty finish to elevate the entire experience.
How to Make Slow Cooker Tomato Tortellini Soup with Ground Beef Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef and Onion
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat and cooking the ground beef together with the diced onion. This step is key because it builds a savory foundation and softens the onion, releasing flavors that marry beautifully with the rest of the soup. Once the beef is nicely browned and the onion is tender, drain any excess grease to keep the soup from becoming oily.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Transfer to Slow Cooker
After draining, toss in the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute until fragrant. Garlic’s aromatic punch is crucial here, infusing the beef mixture with warm, inviting notes. Then, transfer this flavorful mix to your slow cooker, creating the backbone for your soup.
Step 3: Combine Liquids and Seasonings
Next, add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper directly into the slow cooker. Stir everything together gently but thoroughly. This combination ensures every scoop of soup will be bursting with a rich tomato base seasoned perfectly to complement the beef and tortellini.
Step 4: Slow Cook to Develop Flavor
Cover and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours, or if you’re short on time, set to high for 3 to 4 hours. Slow cooking gives the flavors time to meld, creating a comforting, hearty soup without much hands-on effort—a real lifesaver on busy days!
Step 5: Add Tortellini and Cream
About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the cheese tortellini and heavy cream. The tortellini will soften and absorb some of the soup flavors, while the cream adds that luxurious touch that rounds out the acidity from the tomatoes and enriches the entire pot.
Step 6: Finish with Spinach and Serve
Just before ladling the soup into bowls, stir in the baby spinach if using, and let it gently wilt in the residual heat. This not only boosts the nutrition but also introduces a lovely green contrast. Serve your soup hot with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for the perfect finishing touch.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Tomato Tortellini Soup with Ground Beef Recipe
Garnishes
Adding simple garnishes like freshly grated Parmesan or even a few torn basil leaves instantly elevates this soup. The salty, sharp flavor of Parmesan works wonderfully with the creamy texture, while fresh herbs add brightness that enhances every spoonful.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a slice of garlic toast to sop up all the delicious broth. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette also complements the rich soup perfectly, creating a well-rounded, satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For an inviting presentation, ladle the soup into rustic bowls and top with a swirl of cream and a sprinkle of Parmesan. You can also serve it in bread bowls for a fun and cozy twist that makes the meal feel extra special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This soup keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool it completely before transferring to airtight containers to preserve freshness and flavor for next-day meals.
Freezing
Slow Cooker Tomato Tortellini Soup with Ground Beef Recipe can be frozen, but to keep the tortellini from getting mushy, it’s best to freeze the soup without tortellini, then add fresh tortellini when reheating. Freeze in portions for convenience, up to 2 months.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and adding a splash of broth or water if the soup is too thick. If you froze the soup without tortellini, add it during reheating and cook until tender.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta instead of tortellini?
Absolutely! Small pasta shapes like mini ravioli or even small shells work well, but tortellini offers that cheesy, stuffed surprise that makes this soup stand out.
Is it okay to substitute ground turkey or sausage for the beef?
Yes, both ground turkey and Italian sausage are excellent alternatives. Just adjust seasoning if needed, as sausage can add extra spice and flavor.
Can I make this soup in a regular pot if I don’t have a slow cooker?
Definitely! Brown the beef and onion as usual, then simmer everything on low for about an hour, stirring occasionally. Add tortellini near the end as instructed.
How do I make the soup spicier?
Adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce during the slow cooking process will give your soup a nice kick without overpowering the other flavors.
Is the heavy cream necessary?
While it adds a rich, creamy texture that balances acidity, you can skip or reduce it for a lighter version. A splash of half-and-half or whole milk can substitute if you prefer.
Final Thoughts
From its rich tomato base to the cozy pockets of cheese tortellini, this Slow Cooker Tomato Tortellini Soup with Ground Beef Recipe is a soul-satisfying meal that’s as simple as it is delicious. It’s perfect for busy days or anytime you want to treat yourself to something warm and hearty. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a staple in your meal rotation — hearty, comforting, and downright addictive!
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Slow Cooker Tomato Tortellini Soup with Ground Beef Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours (low) or 3 hours (high)
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes (or 3 hours 15 minutes)
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Slow Cooker Tomato Tortellini Soup with Ground Beef is a comforting and hearty meal perfect for any day. Featuring tender ground beef, rich tomato broth, and cheesy tortellini, this soup is easy to prepare and simmers to perfection in a slow cooker, making it ideal for hands-off cooking. The addition of fresh spinach and Parmesan cheese adds a fresh, savory finish.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup baby spinach (optional)
Liquids and Canned Goods
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can beef broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
Dry Ingredients and Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 (9-ounce) package refrigerated or frozen cheese tortellini
Garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Cook Ground Beef and Onions: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the beef is browned and the onion is soft, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess grease to keep the soup from being too oily. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute to release its flavor.
- Transfer to Slow Cooker: Move the cooked beef mixture into the slow cooker. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until well combined.
- Slow Cook the Soup: Cover the slow cooker and cook the soup on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Add Tortellini and Cream: Approximately 30 minutes before serving, stir in the cheese tortellini and heavy cream. Cover and continue cooking until the tortellini is tender, ensuring it doesn’t overcook.
- Incorporate Spinach and Finish: Just before serving, stir in the baby spinach if using, allowing it to wilt gently in the residual heat. Serve the soup hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese for an extra savory boost.
Notes
- Frozen tortellini can be used straight from the freezer—just add 10 more minutes of cook time.
- Ground Italian sausage or turkey can be used instead of beef for different flavor profiles.
- Add red pepper flakes if you prefer a little heat in your soup.
