Slow Cooker Tomato Tortellini Soup with Cheddar & Toast Bites

Introduction

Indulge in the comforting, creamy flavors of Slow Cooker Tomato Tortellini Soup with Cheddar & Toast Bites. This recipe combines the tanginess of tomatoes, the richness of cheddar cheese, and the hearty bite of cheese tortellini, topped with golden, crunchy toast bites for a delightful texture contrast. Perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a cozy, satisfying meal, this dish is simple to prepare and bursting with flavor.

Overview of the Recipe

This Slow Cooker Tomato Tortellini Soup is a creamy and cheesy soup that’s both hearty and satisfying. The slow cooker does most of the work, blending aromatic onions, garlic, and herbs with juicy tomatoes. The addition of cheese tortellini makes it a complete meal, while the cheddar cheese brings in a smooth, velvety finish. Paired with toasted bread bites, this dish is a perfect harmony of flavors and textures.

History and Origin

Tomato soup has long been a classic comfort food with origins dating back centuries. It gained popularity in the United States in the late 19th century, often served with bread or crackers. The addition of tortellini and cheddar cheese transforms this traditional recipe into a modern fusion, bringing a touch of Italian cuisine to a quintessential American favorite. Toast bites serve as a nod to the classic pairing of soup with crusty bread, offering an elevated experience.

Ingredients

For the Soup:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 package (9 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Toast Bites:

• 4 slices of crusty bread, cubed
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: grated Parmesan for extra flavor

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Soup Base

1. Cook Aromatics: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
2. Combine Ingredients: Transfer the onion and garlic mixture to your slow cooker. Add the undrained diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.

Step 2: Slow Cook

1. Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. During this time, the flavors will meld beautifully.

Step 3: Add Tortellini and Cheddar

1. Add Cream and Pasta: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the heavy cream for a rich, creamy texture. Add the refrigerated cheese tortellini to the slow cooker. Cover and cook on high for 20-30 minutes, until the tortellini is tender.
2. Incorporate Cheese: Once the tortellini is cooked, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Prepare Toast Bites

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season Bread Cubes: Place the cubed crusty bread on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Toss the cubes to coat evenly.
3. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp. If desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan over the toast bites for an extra layer of flavor.

Step 5: Serve

1. Assemble: Ladle the soup into serving bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
2. Add Toast Bites: Top each bowl with a handful of toast bites or serve them on the side for dipping.

Pairing and Serving Suggestions

Pair this soup with a fresh green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette or serve alongside a platter of roasted vegetables for a complete meal. For a beverage, opt for a refreshing iced tea, sparkling water with citrus, or a warm cup of herbal tea to complement the creamy richness of the soup.

Variations of the Recipe

1. Protein Boost: Add cooked shredded chicken or turkey for a heartier version.
2. Vegetarian Twist: Use plant-based cream and vegan cheese for a dairy-free alternative.
3. Spicy Kick: Stir in red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy variation.
4. Additional Vegetables: Include chopped spinach, kale, or diced bell peppers for added nutrients and flavor.
5. Different Cheese: Swap cheddar for Gouda, mozzarella, or Parmesan for a different flavor profile.

Health Benefits Notes

1. Tomatoes: Rich in antioxidants like lycopene, tomatoes support heart health and may help reduce inflammation.
2. Cheese Tortellini: Provides carbohydrates for energy and some protein for muscle maintenance.
3. Cheddar Cheese: A source of calcium, supporting bone health.
4. Vegetable Broth: Low in calories and provides hydration.
5. Olive Oil: A healthy fat that contributes to heart health.

For a lighter version, consider reducing the amount of heavy cream or substituting with a lower-fat alternative like half-and-half or plain Greek yogurt.

FAQs

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the soup base in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat and add the tortellini and cream when ready to serve.

Can I freeze this soup?

It’s best to freeze the soup base without the tortellini, as the pasta may become mushy when thawed. Add fresh tortellini during reheating.

Can I use dried tortellini?

Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time. Dried tortellini may take longer to cook than the refrigerated variety.

What if I don’t have a slow cooker?

You can prepare this soup on the stovetop. Simmer the ingredients in a large pot over low heat for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally.

Conclusion

This Slow Cooker Tomato Tortellini Soup with Cheddar & Toast Bites is a cozy, crowd-pleasing dish that’s both easy to make and endlessly comforting. Whether you’re serving it as a family dinner, a holiday starter, or a simple lunch, it’s guaranteed to be a hit. Customize it with your favorite ingredients and enjoy the rich, creamy flavors alongside crispy, golden toast bites. Try this recipe today and relish the perfect balance of warmth and flavor in every bite!

Slow Cooker Tomato Tortellini Soup with Cheddar & Toast Bites

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• Author: Wendy Balderas
• Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes - 6 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

This slow cooker tomato tortellini soup is a comforting, creamy dish made with tomatoes, cheese tortellini, and cheddar cheese, topped with crunchy toast bites. A hearty meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 package (9 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Toast Bites:

• 4 slices of crusty bread, cubed
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: grated Parmesan

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Instructions

• Heat olive oil in a skillet, sauté diced onion for 5 minutes, add minced garlic, and cook for 1 minute. Transfer to the slow cooker.
• Add diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours.
• Stir in heavy cream and cheese tortellini 30 minutes before serving. Cook on high for 20-30 minutes until tortellini is tender.
• Mix in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
• For toast bites, preheat oven to 375°F, toss bread cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then bake for 10-12 minutes until golden.
• Serve soup in bowls with garnish and toast bites.

Notes

• Adjust seasoning to taste.
• Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream for a lighter version.
• Add spinach or kale for extra nutrition.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 4-6 hours
• Category: Soups & Stews
• Method: Slow Cooker
• Cuisine: American-Italian Fusion

Nutrition

• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 820mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 11g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 11g

Keywords: Cheesy tomato soup, tortellini soup recipe, creamy tomato soup with cheddar, slow cooker comfort food recipe