Embark on a tantalizing culinary adventure with a dish that promises to enchant your taste buds and stir your heart. Our Slow Cooker Marry Me Tortellini is a flavorful medley of rich ingredients that will have you falling head over heels. As this delicious concoction cooks to perfection, your kitchen fills with an irresistible aroma, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for any gathering.
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Back when I first tried this recipe at a family reunion, I was skeptical about letting a slow cooker do most of the work. However, after witnessing the guests’ delighted reactions and utter joy, it became a staple in my household. My grandmother wrote the original version decades ago in her quaint handwritten cookbook, making this recipe not just a meal, but a piece of our family legacy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This tortellini dish is an absolute delight for several reasons:
- Effortless Cooking: With the slow cooker doing the job, you can set it and forget it, freeing up valuable time for other activities.
- Rich, Savory Flavors: The blend of cheese-filled tortellini, herbs, and spices creates a symphony of taste.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a bustling weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients Notes
The magic of this recipe lies in its simple yet vibrant ingredients. Here are a few tips:
- Tortellini: Opt for fresh or refrigerated tortellini for the best texture.
- Herbs: Fresh basil brings out amazing freshness, but dried can be used in a pinch.
- Substitutes: Swap meatballs with sausage for a different twist.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Gather all your ingredients, ensuring they’re prepped and ready to go. Chop fresh herbs if using, and keep tortellini and any proteins prepared.
Step 2
Layer the slow cooker with a light coat of oil or non-stick spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Step 3
Add your tortellini, followed by your choice of protein, and then layer the tomato sauce. Sprinkle herbs, salt, and pepper to taste.
Step 4
Set your slow cooker to low and let it slow cook for 4–6 hours. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Step 5
Once cooked, stir gently and allow to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a handful of chopped basil for an extra flavor boost.
Storage Options
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze portions in tightly sealed freezer-safe bags. When reheating, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on a stove or microwave.
Variations & Substitutions
For a vegetarian version, replace meat with extra veggies like spinach or mushrooms. Add a spicy kick with red pepper flakes or swap cheese tortellini with a mushroom variety for depth of flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this comforting dish with a side of garlic bread and a fresh salad. Perfect for cozy family dinners or as a crowd-pleaser at potlucks and gatherings alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen tortellini? Yes, frozen tortellini works well. You might need to adjust the cooking time slightly longer to account for the frozen state.
What protein options work best? While this recipe traditionally uses ground beef, you can experiment with chicken, turkey, or even Italian sausage to suit your palette.
Is it okay to cook on high? While cooking on high is possible, it is recommended to cook on low for deeper, richer flavors. High heat might cause ingredients to overcook or the tortellini to become too soft.
How 7 Simple Steps Can Perfect Your Slow Cooker Marry Me Tortellini!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless turkey breasts halved
- 1.5 lbs refrigerated tortellini cheese-stuffed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 large white onion finely chopped
- 5 cloves garlic minced
- 8 oz can sun-dried tomatoes drained
- 3.5 cups vegetable broth
- 3 tbsp cornstarch
- 1.5 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1.25 cups grated mozzarella cheese plus more for serving
- 1 cup fresh spinach leaves roughly chopped
- 1.5 tsp herb seasoning Italian blend
- 0.5 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 to taste salt
- 1 to taste freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Season the turkey breasts with half the herb seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
- If your slow cooker has a sauté function, heat olive oil and butter. Sear the turkey breasts until browned on each side, about 3-4 minutes each.
- Remove the turkey and set it aside. Add the chopped onion to the slow cooker, cooking until translucent, about 4 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Place the turkey back into the slow cooker. In a bowl, whisk vegetable broth with cornstarch until smooth, then pour over the turkey.
- Add sun-dried tomatoes, remaining herb seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cover and cook on high for 2.5 hours, or until turkey shreds easily.
- Shred the turkey in the slow cooker with two forks. Stir in heavy cream and mozzarella until melted.
- Submerge tortellini into the sauce and cook for an additional 25 minutes, or until tender. Add spinach, adjust seasoning, and serve hot.
