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#### **Instructions:**
**1. Sauté the Aromatics (Optional):**
If you have the time, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing for about 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant. This step enhances the flavor of your soup but can be skipped if you’re short on time.
**2. Transfer Ingredients to the Slow Cooker:**
Add the sautéed onions and garlic to the slow cooker. Then, add the chicken or vegetable broth, diced tomatoes (with their juices), sliced carrots, frozen peas, dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
**3. Slow Cook the Soup:**
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together.
**4. Add the Tortellini:**
About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the cheese tortellini. Let it cook in the soup for the remaining time, until the pasta is tender and heated through.
**5. Make It Creamy:**
Once the tortellini is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until everything is well combined and the soup is rich and creamy.
**6. Serve and Garnish:**
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley, if desired. You can also sprinkle more Parmesan cheese on top for an extra cheesy finish.
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### **Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Creamy Tortellini Soup**
– **Don’t Overcook the Tortellini:**
Tortellini cooks quickly, so be sure to add it towards the end of the cooking time to prevent it from becoming mushy. The pasta should be tender but not falling apart.
– **Use Fresh or Frozen Tortellini:**
You can use either fresh or frozen tortellini in this soup. Frozen tortellini works just as well and saves time, but fresh will cook faster and add a slightly more delicate texture.
– **Customize the Veggies:**
Feel free to add more vegetables to your soup, such as spinach, zucchini, or even corn. Just be sure to chop them into bite-sized pieces so they cook evenly.
– **Make It Even Creamier:**
For a richer, thicker soup, add more heavy cream or a few tablespoons of cream cheese. You can also use half-and-half as a lighter alternative.
– **Storing Leftovers:**
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. The soup can also be frozen, but keep in mind that the tortellini may soften a little when reheated.
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### **Serving Suggestions**
**Slow Cooker Creamy Tortellini Soup** pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes:
– **Garlic Bread:**
Crispy, buttery garlic bread is the perfect accompaniment to this creamy soup. It’s ideal for dipping into the rich broth.
– **Salad:**
A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette will balance the richness of the soup and add some freshness to the meal.
– **Grilled Cheese:**
For an extra comforting meal, serve this soup with a classic grilled cheese sandwich. The combination is unbeatable.
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### **Conclusion**
**Slow Cooker Creamy Tortellini Soup** is the ultimate comfort food. It’s easy to make, rich in flavor, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding the family on a busy night or preparing a cozy meal for yourself, this hearty soup is sure to be a hit. Plus, with the convenience of the slow cooker, it’s a hands-off dish that lets you enjoy a satisfying meal without spending too much time in the kitchen.
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