Some nights call for the kind of supper that feels a little special without asking much from the cook, and that is exactly where this easy crockpot dinner shines. With just a handful of simple grocery staples and almost no prep, you can let the slow cooker do the work while you get on with the day, then come back to a rich, cozy pasta dinner with that classic creamy, savory Italian-inspired flavor families love.
This is delicious served with warm garlic bread, a simple green salad, or roasted broccoli if you want to round things out. Since the sauce is rich and creamy, I also like pairing it with something crisp and fresh on the side, and a sprinkle of black pepper or grated Parmesan at the table makes each bowl feel a little extra comforting.
Slow Cooker 5-Ingredient Creamy Tuscan Tortellini
Servings: 6
Ingredients
1 bag frozen cheese tortellini
1 block cream cheese
2 cups chicken broth
1 small jar sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
2 cups fresh baby spinach
Directions
1. Add the frozen cheese tortellini to the slow cooker.
2. Pour in the chicken broth, then add the cream cheese and chopped sun-dried tomatoes.
3. Cover and cook on low for 2 to 3 hours, stirring once or twice if you can, until the tortellini is tender and the cream cheese has melted into a smooth sauce.
4. Stir in the baby spinach, cover again, and cook for 10 to 15 minutes more until the spinach is wilted.
5. Give everything a final stir and serve warm.
Variations & Tips
Make it extra cheesy: If your family loves a richer pasta dinner, sprinkle in a handful of grated Parmesan right before serving. It melts in beautifully and gives the sauce an extra savory finish.
Add protein: Stir in cooked shredded chicken or browned Italian sausage at the end for a heartier meal. This is a nice way to stretch the dish for bigger appetites.
For picky eaters: If spinach is a tough sell at your table, chop it very finely before adding so it blends more easily into the sauce. You can also start with 1 cup instead of 2 and work your way up next time.
Watch the timing: Frozen tortellini cooks fairly quickly, so check it at the 2-hour mark if your slow cooker runs hot. You want tender pasta and a creamy sauce, not overcooked tortellini.
Thin the sauce if needed: If the sauce thickens more than you like after sitting, stir in a splash of warm chicken broth before serving. That brings it right back to a silky consistency.