If you’re on the hunt for a comforting, hearty meal that practically makes itself, you absolutely must try this Slow Cooker Tomato Tortellini Soup with Ground Beef Recipe. It perfectly combines the rich, savory flavors of seasoned ground beef with the comforting warmth of tender cheese tortellini swimming in a luscious tomato broth. This soup brings together layers of texture and taste that feel like a big, cozy hug in a bowl—ideal for busy weeknights or any time you crave something soul-satisfying and delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for this recipe are wonderfully straightforward, yet each one plays a vital role in building depth and warmth in your soup. From the rich ground beef that adds satisfying protein to the bright acidity of crushed tomatoes and fresh baby spinach for a pop of color, every element contributes to a well-rounded, mouthwatering dish.
- 1 pound ground beef: This creates the hearty base and brings savory richness.
- 1 small yellow onion, diced: Adds a sweet, aromatic foundation when cooked down.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Offers a punch of flavor that enhances the meat and tomato.
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes: Provides a thick, tangy, and vibrant tomato base.
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce: Enhances the soup’s smooth consistency and tomato flavor.
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can beef broth: Gives the broth a rich, meaty depth.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Adds an aromatic herbaceous note that brightens the soup.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Complements the basil and brings Italian flair.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances all the flavors perfectly.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of subtle heat.
- 1 (9-ounce) package refrigerated or frozen cheese tortellini: The star pasta that soaks up all the delicious broth.
- ½ cup heavy cream: Brings a luscious creaminess to the soup.
- 1 cup baby spinach (optional): Adds freshness and a vibrant green contrast.
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving: A savory finish that enhances every spoonful.
How to Make Slow Cooker Tomato Tortellini Soup with Ground Beef Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef and Onions
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat and cooking the ground beef with diced onion until the beef is fully browned and the onions become soft and translucent. This usually takes about 6 to 8 minutes. Make sure you drain off any excess grease to keep the soup from becoming too oily. Adding minced garlic during the last minute of cooking will release its incredible aroma and deepen the flavor of the meat.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
Once your beef mixture is ready, transfer it to the slow cooker. Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, dried basil, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together well so that the herbs and seasonings are evenly distributed. This is where all the flavors meld and develop into something magical during the slow cooking phase.
Step 3: Slow Cook the Soup
Cover your slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6 to 7 hours, or if you’re short on time, on high for 3 to 4 hours. This long, gentle cooking allows the beef to become tender, and the tomatoes to infuse the broth with their deep, rich flavor. The slow simmer creates the perfect environment for a hearty, comforting soup base.
Step 4: Add Tortellini and Cream
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, stir in the cheese tortellini and heavy cream. Cover the slow cooker again and let the tortellini cook until tender. The heavy cream will soften the tomatoes’ acidity and make the broth silky and indulgent. It’s the perfect finishing touch that turns this soup into something truly special.
Step 5: Stir in Baby Spinach
Just before serving, toss in the baby spinach if you’re using it. It will wilt quickly from the residual heat, adding a fresh pop of color and a gentle layer of texture to every bowl without overpowering the other ingredients.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Tomato Tortellini Soup with Ground Beef Recipe
Garnishes
Topping each bowl with freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty dimension that perfectly complements the creamy tomato broth. A sprinkle of cracked black pepper or a few fresh basil leaves can also elevate the presentation and flavor, making every bite feel like a little celebration.
Side Dishes
Pair this soup with warm, crusty bread or a slice of garlic bread for dipping into that luscious broth. A simple mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast that balances the heartiness of the soup. For a full meal, roasted vegetables or a grilled cheese sandwich make excellent companions.
Creative Ways to Present
This soup is a showstopper when served in rustic bowls with a dollop of ricotta or a drizzle of olive oil on top. For a family-style affair, serve it straight from the slow cooker on the table, letting everyone ladle out their favorite portions of tortellini and beef. You can also offer different garnishes like red pepper flakes or fresh herbs on the side for customization that everyone will appreciate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Slow Cooker Tomato Tortellini Soup with Ground Beef Recipe keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to store it in an airtight container to preserve freshness and prevent the tortellini from absorbing too much broth.
Freezing
While freezing soup with tortellini can sometimes change the texture of the pasta, you can freeze the soup base before adding the tortellini and cream. When ready to enjoy, thaw the soup, then add fresh tortellini and cream, cooking until the pasta is tender. This way, your soup stays fresh and delicious.
Reheating
Reheat the soup gently on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup has thickened too much or the tortellini has absorbed a lot of liquid, add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it back up. Avoid high heat to prevent the cream from curdling and keep all those lovely flavors mellow and harmonious.
FAQs
Can I use frozen tortellini in this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen tortellini works wonderfully and can be added straight from the freezer—just remember to cook the soup for about 10 more minutes to ensure the pasta is fully tender.
Is there a way to make this soup spicier?
Yes! Adding red pepper flakes while the soup cooks or a dash of hot sauce before serving will give the soup a nice, gentle kick without overpowering the other flavors.
Can I substitute ground beef with other meats?
Definitely. Ground Italian sausage or ground turkey are excellent alternatives that will bring their own unique flavors, keeping the soup just as hearty and delicious.
How do I keep the tortellini from getting mushy?
For best texture, add the tortellini toward the end of cooking as instructed—about 30 minutes before serving. Cooking it too long will break down the pasta, so timing is key.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Totally! Kids tend to love the cheesy tortellini and the mild, familiar flavors of this soup. You can adjust seasonings according to their preferences, making it a wholesome family meal everyone can enjoy.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly satisfying about coming home to the aroma of a Slow Cooker Tomato Tortellini Soup with Ground Beef Recipe simmering away, knowing dinner will be both nourishing and delicious without much fuss. It’s a perfect blend of comfort and convenience, full of rich flavors and tender textures that make every spoonful memorable. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—you might just find it becoming a beloved favorite in your recipe rotation!
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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 hearty Slow Cooker Tomato Tortellini Soup with Ground Beef combines rich tomato flavors, tender tortellini, and seasoned ground beef for a comforting and easy-to-make meal perfect for any day of the week.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can beef broth
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 (9-ounce) package refrigerated or frozen cheese tortellini
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 cup baby spinach (optional)
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Cook Ground Beef and Onion: 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 reduce fat content.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute to release its aroma.
- Transfer to Slow Cooker: Move the cooked beef mixture to your slow cooker, ensuring no raw ingredients remain in the skillet.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, and sprinkle in dried basil, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together thoroughly to combine all flavors.
- Slow Cook the Soup: Cover and cook the mixture on low heat for 6 to 7 hours, or alternatively on high heat for 3 to 4 hours, allowing flavors to meld.
- Add Tortellini and Cream: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the cheese tortellini and heavy cream. Cover again and continue cooking until the tortellini becomes tender.
- Wilt Spinach (Optional): Just before serving, stir in baby spinach leaves if using, allowing them to wilt into the hot soup.
- Serve: Ladle soup into bowls and garnish generously with grated Parmesan cheese for a savory finish.
Notes
- Frozen tortellini can be used directly from the freezer; increase cooking time by 10 minutes to ensure tenderness.
- Ground Italian sausage or turkey are great alternatives to ground beef for different flavor profiles.
- Include red pepper flakes if you prefer a bit of heat in your soup.
