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
Scale
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.
