🧀 Slow Cooker Cheesy Tortellini

Creamy, comforting, and incredibly easy to make, this Slow Cooker Cheesy Tortellini
is the perfect family-friendly meal. Tender cheese-filled tortellini are slow-cooked
in a rich, flavorful sauce and finished with plenty of melted cheese for the ultimate comfort food experience.

Ingredients

• 20 oz (about 560 g) refrigerated cheese tortellini
• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef or Italian sausage
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 jar (24 oz / 680 g) marinara sauce
• 1 can (14.5 oz / 410 g) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 block (8 oz / 225 g) cream cheese, cubed and softened
• 1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream or half-and-half
• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook the Meat:
   In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef or Italian sausage with chopped onion until fully browned. Drain excess grease. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Layer in the Slow Cooker:
   Transfer meat mixture to the slow cooker. Add marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir well.
3. Add the Tortellini:
   Gently stir in the cheese tortellini, making sure they are well coated in the sauce.
4. Cook:
   Cover and cook on LOW for 3–4 hours or HIGH for 1½–2 hours, until tortellini are tender.
5. Make It Creamy and Cheesy:
   20–30 minutes before serving, stir in cream cheese and heavy cream until smooth. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan on top, cover, and let melt completely.
6. Serve:
   Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil. Serve warm with garlic bread or fresh salad.

Tips

• Substitute beef with turkey or chicken, or make vegetarian by omitting meat.
• Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• If using frozen tortellini, add 30–45 extra minutes to cooking time.