Nothing warms the soul like a hearty bowl of soup on a chilly day. Among all comfort food classics, this Slow Cooker Tomato Tortellini Soup with Ground Beef stands out. It’s rich, satisfying, and brimming with Italian-inspired flavors. The combination of savory ground beef, cheese-filled tortellini, and a tomato-based broth makes it a dish you’ll want to return to again and again.
Best of all, this recipe is designed for the slow cooker—so you can set it in the morning and return to a cozy, ready-to-serve dinner in the evening. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or whenever you want something filling without spending hours over the stove.
Why This Soup Deserves a Spot on Your Table
- Effortless slow cooker recipe – Minimal prep with big rewards.
- Family-friendly – Adults and kids alike love the cheesy tortellini.
- Comfort in a bowl – Savory beef, hearty pasta, and warming broth.
- Versatile – Easy to adapt with different proteins or vegetarian swaps.
- Meal prep friendly – Tastes even better the next day.
This dish is proof that simple ingredients can create something truly comforting.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Soup
- 1 pound ground beef – The hearty base of the soup.
- 1 small onion, diced – Adds natural sweetness and depth.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Infuses robust flavor.
- 4 cups beef broth – The savory liquid foundation.
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes – Deep, rich tomato taste.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil – A fragrant Italian herb.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano – Classic earthy flavor.
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – For a little heat.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste – Balances the overall flavor.
- 9 ounces cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen) – Pillowy pasta pockets filled with cheese.
- 2 cups fresh spinach – Adds color, freshness, and nutrients.
For Serving
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese – A salty, cheesy finishing touch.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Beef
In a skillet, cook ground beef, diced onion, and garlic over medium heat for 5–7 minutes, or until the beef is browned and the onion is soft. Drain off any excess fat to keep the soup light.
Step 2: Load the Slow Cooker
Transfer the cooked beef mixture into the slow cooker. Add beef broth, crushed tomatoes, basil, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Stir until well combined.
Step 3: Let It Simmer
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours. During this time, the flavors meld together beautifully.
Step 4: Add Tortellini and Spinach
About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the cheese tortellini and spinach. The pasta will cook directly in the broth, absorbing the savory flavors without becoming mushy.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the soup into bowls, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese, and enjoy a warm, cheesy, and comforting meal.
Serving Suggestions
This soup is a complete meal on its own, but you can make it even better with the right sides:
- Crusty garlic bread – Perfect for dipping into the rich tomato broth.
- Fresh garden salad – Adds lightness to balance the hearty soup.
- Roasted vegetables – Complements the Italian flavors.
- A glass of red wine – For a cozy, elevated dinner experience.
Tips for the Best Tomato Tortellini Soup
- Add pasta at the end – Overcooking tortellini can make it fall apart.
- Fresh or frozen? – Both work well, but frozen tortellini holds up better if you plan to freeze leftovers.
- Taste before serving – Adjust seasonings, especially salt and spice, after cooking.
- Creamy variation – Stir in ½ cup heavy cream before serving for a richer soup.
- Protein swaps – Try ground turkey, Italian sausage, or shredded chicken instead of beef.
- Vegetarian option – Skip the beef and use vegetable broth for a lighter, meat-free version.
Make-Ahead, Storage, and Reheating
Storage
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
- Freeze soup for up to 2 months—but leave out the tortellini, as pasta doesn’t freeze well. Add fresh tortellini when reheating.
Reheating
- Warm gently on the stovetop over medium heat. Add extra broth if the soup thickens too much.
- Microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally, until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different pasta instead of tortellini?
Yes. Ravioli, penne, or small shells work as substitutes, though tortellini adds the cheesy goodness that makes this soup special.
Can I cook this on the stovetop instead of a slow cooker?
Absolutely. Simmer everything in a large pot for 30–40 minutes. Add tortellini and spinach during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
How can I make this soup spicier?
Increase the red pepper flakes, or add a splash of hot sauce for extra heat.
Does this soup taste good the next day?
Yes! The flavors deepen overnight, making it even more delicious the next day.
Can I make this creamy without using heavy cream?
Yes. Stir in a little half-and-half, cream cheese, or even evaporated milk for creaminess.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Tomato Tortellini Soup with Ground Beef is the kind of recipe that turns an ordinary night into a cozy, comforting meal. It’s hearty, flavorful, and requires minimal effort—just what you want from a slow cooker dish.
Whether you’re feeding your family, hosting friends, or stocking your fridge with make-ahead meals, this soup checks all the boxes. With tender pasta, savory beef, and a rich tomato base, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep on repeat all year round.