1. Brown the Ground Beef:
Begin by cooking the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until fully browned and cooked through. Break it up into small pieces as it cooks. Once done, drain off excess fat to keep the soup rich but not greasy.
2. Build the Soup Base:
In the slow cooker, add the chicken broth, petite diced tomatoes, tomato soup, and chive and onion cream cheese. Stir gently to combine. The cream cheese may appear chunky at first, but it will melt smoothly as the soup cooks.
3. Add the Beef:
Transfer the cooked ground beef into the slow cooker. Stir again to evenly distribute the meat throughout the soup base, ensuring balanced flavor in every serving.
4. Slow Cook:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4–6 hours. This slow cooking process allows the tomato base to mellow while the cream cheese blends into a smooth, velvety texture.
5. Add Tortellini (Optional):
If using tortellini, add it during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Stir gently and continue cooking until the pasta is tender. This timing regulation prevents the tortellini from becoming overly soft.
6. Season and Serve:
Before serving, taste the soup and season with salt and black pepper as needed. Stir well and serve hot.
Serving and Storage:
Serve Slow Cooker Tomato Tortellini Soup hot, optionally paired with crusty bread, garlic toast, or a simple green salad. It works beautifully as both a main dish and a comforting starter.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain creaminess.
Tips:
- Drain ground beef thoroughly to avoid excess oil.
- Cut cream cheese into cubes to help it melt faster.
- Add tortellini only near the end to prevent overcooking.
- Stir once or twice during cooking if possible for extra smoothness.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parmesan for added flavor.
Conclusion:
Slow Cooker Tomato Tortellini Soup is a comforting, no-fuss recipe that delivers rich flavor with minimal effort. By following simple slow-cooking principles—gentle heat, proper timing, and thoughtful ingredient balance—you can create a soup that feels both indulgent and homemade.
Whether enjoyed plain or with tortellini added for heartiness, this soup is a reliable favorite that fits perfectly into busy lifestyles while still offering cozy, satisfying results.
FAQ:
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey works well and creates a lighter version of the soup.
Will the cream cheese fully melt?
Yes, as long as the soup cooks long enough, it will blend into a smooth, creamy base.
What type of tortellini is best?
Cheese tortellini is most popular, but meat-filled varieties also work well.
Can this soup be frozen?
It can be frozen without tortellini. Add fresh pasta after reheating for best texture.
Is this soup very thick?
It is creamy and hearty but can be thinned with extra broth if desired.