Slow Cooker Tortellini Instant Pot Soup

This Slow Cooker Tortellini Instant Pot Soup is a hearty and flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights. It combines the ease of slow cooking with the speed of an Instant Pot for a delicious and satisfying soup that the whole family will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a winner for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables, proteins, and cheeses. Secondly, it’s a convenient way to get a comforting meal on the table with minimal effort. Whether you use a slow cooker or an Instant Pot, the hands-on time is minimal. Finally, it’s a budget-friendly way to feed a crowd. The combination of pasta, broth, and vegetables stretches a small amount of protein into a filling and satisfying soup.

Choosing Your Ingredients

The key to a great soup is using high-quality ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of the key components and how to select them:

Tortellini

Fresh or dried tortellini both work well in this recipe. Cheese tortellini is a classic choice, but you can also use spinach, meat, or mushroom-filled tortellini for added flavor. If using fresh tortellini, add it towards the end of the cooking time to prevent it from becoming mushy. Dried tortellini can withstand longer cooking times and can be added earlier in the process.

Broth

Chicken broth is the most common choice for this soup, but vegetable or beef broth can also be used. Look for low-sodium broth to control the salt content of the soup. You can also use bouillon cubes or powder, but adjust the amount to taste. Homemade broth will, of course, provide the best flavor.

Protein

This soup is delicious with or without added protein. If you want to include meat, consider using Italian sausage, ground beef, shredded chicken, or even diced ham. Brown the meat before adding it to the slow cooker or Instant Pot to enhance its flavor. For a vegetarian option, add more vegetables or a can of drained and rinsed white beans.

Vegetables

The possibilities are endless when it comes to vegetables in this soup. Onions, carrots, and celery are the classic mirepoix that forms the base of many soups. Other great additions include spinach, kale, zucchini, bell peppers, mushrooms, and diced tomatoes. Consider adding heartier vegetables at the beginning of the cooking process and more delicate greens towards the end.

Cheese

Parmesan cheese is the perfect finishing touch for this soup. Grate it fresh and sprinkle it over each serving. You can also add a dollop of ricotta cheese for extra creaminess. Other cheese options include mozzarella, provolone, or asiago. Stir in shredded cheese at the end of cooking for a melted and cheesy texture.

Herbs and Spices

Italian seasoning is a convenient way to add a blend of herbs to this soup. Other herbs that work well include basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary. For a touch of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. Garlic is essential for flavor, and you can use fresh minced garlic or garlic powder. Salt and pepper are crucial for seasoning the soup to taste.

Slow Cooker Instructions

The slow cooker is a great option for making this soup because it allows the flavors to meld together over time.

1. Sauté (Optional): Brown any meat you are using in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker. Sautéing vegetables like onions, carrots, and celery before adding them to the slow cooker can also enhance their flavor.

2. Combine Ingredients: In the slow cooker, combine the broth, browned meat (if using), sautéed vegetables (if using), diced tomatoes, and Italian seasoning.

3. Cook: Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

4. Add Tortellini and Spinach: During the last 30 minutes of cooking time, add the tortellini and spinach. Cook until the tortellini is tender and the spinach is wilted.

5. Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese.

Instant Pot Instructions

The Instant Pot is a faster option for making this soup, perfect for when you’re short on time.

1. Sauté (Optional): Use the sauté function to brown any meat you are using. Sauté vegetables like onions, carrots, and celery before adding the other ingredients.

2. Combine Ingredients: Add the broth, browned meat (if using), sautéed vegetables (if using), diced tomatoes, and Italian seasoning to the Instant Pot.

3. Pressure Cook: Secure the lid and set the Instant Pot to manual (high pressure) for 5 minutes.

4. Quick Release: After the cooking time is up, do a quick release of the pressure.

5. Add Tortellini and Spinach: Stir in the tortellini and spinach. Let the soup sit for a few minutes until the tortellini is tender and the spinach is wilted.

6. Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese.

Tips and Variations

• Add Cream: For a creamier soup, stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end of cooking.
• Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give the soup a kick.
• Use Different Tortellini: Experiment with different types of tortellini, such as cheese, meat, or vegetable-filled tortellini.
• Add Beans: Add a can of drained and rinsed white beans or kidney beans for extra protein and fiber.
• Make it Vegetarian: Omit the meat and use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
• Freeze for Later: This soup freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Adjust Liquid: Adjust the amount of broth to reach your desired consistency. Add more broth for a thinner soup or less broth for a thicker soup.
• Don’t Overcook Tortellini: Be careful not to overcook the tortellini, especially if using fresh tortellini. Add it towards the end of the cooking time to prevent it from becoming mushy.
• Fresh Herbs: If possible, use fresh herbs for the best flavor. Add them towards the end of cooking to preserve their aroma.
• Acidity: A splash of lemon juice or balsamic vinegar at the end can brighten up the flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Tortellini: Overcooked tortellini can become mushy and unappetizing. Add the tortellini towards the end of the cooking time and cook until just tender.
• Not Seasoning Properly: Seasoning is crucial for bringing out the flavors of the soup. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding salt, pepper, and other spices to your liking.
• Using Too Much Salt: Be mindful of the salt content in your broth and other ingredients. Start with a small amount of salt and add more as needed, tasting as you go.
• Skipping the Sauté Step: Sautéing the meat and vegetables before adding them to the slow cooker or Instant Pot can enhance their flavor and add depth to the soup.
• Adding Dairy Too Early: If adding cream or cheese to the soup, wait until the end of the cooking time to prevent it from curdling.
• Forgetting to Deglaze: If using the Instant Pot and browning meat on the bottom, make sure to deglaze the pot with a bit of broth before pressure cooking to prevent a burn notice.
• Inadequate Liquid: Ensure there’s enough liquid to cover all ingredients, particularly in the Instant Pot, to ensure proper cooking and avoid burn errors.

FAQ About Slow Cooker/Instant Pot Tortellini Soup

Can I use frozen tortellini?

Yes, you can use frozen tortellini. Add it to the soup during the last 15-20 minutes of cooking time, or until it’s heated through.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit any meat and use vegetable broth. You can also add more vegetables or a can of drained and rinsed beans for extra protein.

How long does this soup last in the refrigerator?

This soup will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Store it in an airtight container.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, feel free to add your favorite vegetables! Good options include zucchini, bell peppers, mushrooms, and green beans.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

While this recipe is specifically for tortellini, you can experiment with other types of pasta, such as penne, rotini, or farfalle. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

What can I serve with this soup?

This soup is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with crusty bread, a side salad, or grilled cheese sandwiches.

How do I thicken the soup if it’s too thin?

You can thicken the soup by stirring in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) towards the end of cooking. Alternatively, you can mash some of the vegetables in the soup to create a thicker consistency.

How do I prevent the tortellini from getting mushy?

To prevent the tortellini from getting mushy, add it towards the end of the cooking time and cook until it’s just tender. Avoid overcooking it.

Can I add cream cheese for a creamier soup?

Yes, you can add cream cheese. Soften 4 ounces of cream cheese and stir it into the soup at the end of cooking until it’s melted and smooth.

Is this soup kid-friendly?

Yes, this soup is generally kid-friendly. You can adjust the ingredients to suit your child’s preferences. For example, you can use smaller tortellini or omit any vegetables that your child doesn’t like.