Slow Cooker Marry Me Tortellini

Name: How 7 Simple Steps Can Perfect Your Slow Cooker Marry Me Tortellini!
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 180 min
Total time: 205 min
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

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

By: Maria
Posted: 05/28/2025

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.

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I prepare the Slow Cooker Marry Me Tortellini ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dish in the slow cooker up to 24 hours in advance. Store the assembled slow cooker insert (covered) in the refrigerator until ready to cook. Alternatively, you can cook the tortellini completely and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat gently on the stovetop or in the slow cooker on low, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to maintain moisture.

What are the best ingredient substitutions for the Slow Cooker Marry Me Tortellini?

You can easily customize this recipe. For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with a pound of sliced mushrooms or spinach, adding them during step 3. If you prefer a spicier dish, add 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. For a different flavor profile, swap the cheese tortellini for mushroom tortellini. Instead of ground beef, you can use Italian sausage, chicken or turkey.

How do I know when the Slow Cooker Marry Me Tortellini is perfectly cooked?

The tortellini is perfectly cooked when it’s tender but still holds its shape, typically after 4-6 hours on low. The sauce should be bubbling gently, and the meat (if using) should be fully cooked and no longer pink. Taste a tortellini to ensure it’s cooked through; it should be soft but not mushy. The aroma will also be rich and inviting, indicating the flavors have melded beautifully.

Can I double or scale up the Slow Cooker Marry Me Tortellini recipe?

Yes, you can double the recipe, but you may need a larger slow cooker (at least 6-8 quarts). Adjust the cooking time slightly, adding an extra hour or two to ensure all ingredients are heated through. Ensure the slow cooker isn’t overcrowded, as this can affect cooking times. If you’re scaling up significantly, consider cooking in batches to avoid uneven cooking.

What are the nutritional highlights of the Slow Cooker Marry Me Tortellini?

This dish offers a good source of protein from the tortellini and meat (if used). Tomatoes contribute lycopene, an antioxidant, and Vitamin C. The cheese provides calcium and protein. Herbs like basil add vitamins and antioxidants. For a healthier version, use lean ground beef or add more vegetables to boost the fiber and vitamin content.

No ratings yet

How 7 Simple Steps Can Perfect Your Slow Cooker Marry Me Tortellini!

This heavenly tortellini dish combines tender turkey pieces with cheesy pasta, all enveloped in a creamy herb-infused sauce. Perfect for a cozy night in!

Prep : 10 Total : 25 minutes

Rate Pin Pin Recipe Print Recipe

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.