Crockpot Tortellini Alfredo

As a baker, I love experimenting with different recipes that bring joy to the table. Today, I’m excited to share one of my absolute favorites—Crockpot Tortellini Alfredo. This dish is incredibly simple yet rich in flavor, perfect for a cozy night in or a quick family meal. The best part? You only need a few ingredients and a Crockpot to create a creamy, comforting meal that’s sure to please everyone. The combination of tender tortellini, creamy Alfredo sauce, and a hint of garlic makes for a dish that’s indulgent without being overly complicated.

I’ve always loved using the Crockpot because it allows me to put together a meal in the morning and come home to a deliciously finished dish. Whether you’re a busy baker or just someone who loves simple, hassle-free cooking, this Crockpot Tortellini Alfredo is a game-changer. Trust me, you won’t need to spend hours in the kitchen for a meal that feels like it’s been made with extra love and care.

Ingredients:

• 1 package (16 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini

• 1 jar (15 oz) Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1 cup chicken broth

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil

• 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Crockpot: Begin by spraying the inside of your Crockpot with a non-stick cooking spray for easy cleanup.

2. Layer the Ingredients: Place the refrigerated tortellini at the bottom of the Crockpot. Then, add the Alfredo sauce, heavy cream, and chicken broth. Stir gently to combine.

3. Add Seasoning: Sprinkle in the minced garlic, dried basil, and dried parsley. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together to evenly coat the tortellini.

4. Cook the Tortellini: Cover the Crockpot and cook on low for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the tortellini is tender and fully cooked. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and to prevent sticking.

5. Add the Cheese: Once the tortellini is cooked, sprinkle in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir to combine, allowing the cheeses to melt into the sauce.

6. Final Touch: Cover the Crockpot again and cook on low for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy.

7. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, for a pop of color and added freshness. Serve immediately and enjoy your creamy Crockpot Tortellini Alfredo!

   How Long to Bake…

   Since we’re using a Crockpot, this recipe doesn’t require baking, but it does require careful timing to get the perfect creamy texture. For the best results, cook the tortellini on low for 2.5 to 3 hours. This slow cooking allows the tortellini to absorb the creamy Alfredo sauce without becoming mushy. If you’re short on time, you can cook it on high for 1.5 to 2 hours, but the low-and-slow method gives the dish a richer flavor.

   How to Store Leftovers:

   If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare with this dish), they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply allow the dish to cool before transferring it to the container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat the tortellini Alfredo in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk or chicken broth to restore its creamy consistency. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but make sure to stir it occasionally to ensure even warming.

   Tips for Perfect Crockpot Tortellini Alfredo:

   • Use refrigerated tortellini: For the best texture, use refrigerated cheese tortellini instead of frozen. The refrigerated variety tends to hold its shape better and absorbs the sauce more evenly.

   • Add more cream for extra richness: If you prefer a creamier dish, feel free to add more heavy cream. You can even use half-and-half as a substitute for a slightly lighter version.

   • Don’t overcook the tortellini: Since the tortellini cooks quickly, be sure to check it around the 2.5-hour mark to avoid overcooking. Overcooked tortellini can become mushy and lose its texture.

   • Adjust the seasonings: Everyone’s taste is different, so feel free to adjust the garlic, salt, and pepper to suit your preferences. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes will give it a nice kick if you like a bit of heat.

   • For extra flavor: If you want to elevate the flavor, consider adding sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or grilled chicken to the mix. These ingredients can be added in the last 30 minutes of cooking to ensure they don’t overcook.

     Frequently Asked Questions:

     1. Can I use frozen tortellini in this recipe?
        Yes, you can use frozen tortellini, but keep in mind that it may need a bit more time to cook. If using frozen tortellini, increase the cooking time by 30 minutes to 1 hour on low. Just be sure to check for doneness before serving to avoid overcooking.

     2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
        Yes, this recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can assemble everything in the Crockpot, store it in the fridge overnight, and then cook it the next day. However, make sure to adjust the cooking time, as it might need a little extra time to cook if it starts cold.

     3. Can I add vegetables to the Crockpot Tortellini Alfredo?
        Absolutely! Spinach, mushrooms, or peas are great additions to this dish. Just add them in during the last 30 minutes of cooking to ensure they don’t become too soft. You can also sauté vegetables beforehand to add extra flavor.

     4. How can I make this dish lighter?
        To make this dish lighter, you can use a light Alfredo sauce or substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or skim milk. You could also use a reduced-fat mozzarella or Parmesan to reduce the calorie content while still maintaining a creamy texture.

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        Crockpot Tortellini Alfredo

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        • Author: Lena Meeli
        • Total Time: 2.5–3 hours
        • Yield: 4 servings 1x

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        Description

        These Crockpot Tortellini Alfredo are the ultimate comfort food, combining the creamy richness of Alfredo sauce with the tender bite of cheese tortellini. This easy, slow-cooked dish is perfect for busy days when you want a hearty meal without much effort. The best part is that it’s all made in one pot, saving you time on cleanup while delivering a flavorful, indulgent dinner your whole family will love.

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        Ingredients

        Scale 1x2x3x

        • 1 package (16 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini

        • 1 jar (15 oz) Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)

        • 1 cup heavy cream

        • 1 cup chicken broth

        • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

        • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

        • 2 cloves garlic, minced

        • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil

        • 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley

        • Salt and pepper to taste

        • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

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        Instructions

        • Spray the Crockpot with non-stick cooking spray.

        • Add the tortellini, Alfredo sauce, heavy cream, and chicken broth to the Crockpot. Stir to combine.

        • Sprinkle in garlic, basil, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together.

        • Cover and cook on low for 2.5 to 3 hours, stirring occasionally.

        • Once cooked, stir in mozzarella and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.

        • Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

        Notes

        • Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or grilled chicken for extra flavor.

        • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheat on low heat with a little chicken broth or milk to restore creaminess.

        • You can use frozen tortellini, but increase the cooking time by 30 minutes to 1 hour on low.

        • Prep Time: 10 minutes
        • Cook Time: 2.5–3 hours