Tomato Tortellini Soup with Cheddar Toast Bites made in a slow cooker.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Soup Base

1. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened (about 3–5 minutes).
2. Transfer the sautéed onions and garlic to your slow cooker.

2. Add the Ingredients to the Slow Cooker

1. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, chicken or vegetable broth, dried basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the slow cooker.
2. Stir to combine, cover, and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours.

3. Blend the Soup (Optional)

• For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender directly in the slow cooker to blend the tomatoes and onions. If you prefer a chunkier texture, skip this step.

4. Add the Cream and Tortellini

1. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half.
2. Add the cheese tortellini, cover, and cook on high for 20–30 minutes, or until the tortellini are tender.

5. Prepare the Cheddar Toast Bites

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet.
3. Brush each slice with melted butter and sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and parsley.
4. Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Serve

1. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil if desired.
2. Serve with cheddar toast bites on the side or dunk them directly into the soup for cheesy goodness.

Tips for the Best Tomato Tortellini Soup

1. Customize the Tortellini: Use spinach, mushroom, or meat-filled tortellini instead of cheese for a unique twist.
2. Add Vegetables: Toss in chopped spinach, kale, or zucchini for added nutrition.
3. Make It Creamier: Use full-fat coconut milk instead of cream for a dairy-free option.
4. Enhance Flavor: Stir in a splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.

Storage and Reheating

• Soup: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
• Toast Bites: Store in a sealed container for 1–2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes to crisp them up.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Tomato Tortellini Soup with Cheddar Toast Bites is a soul-warming dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. With its creamy texture, savory tortellini, and cheesy bread pairing, this meal is sure to become a family favorite. Assemble your ingredients, let the slow cooker do the work, and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home!