Go Back Email Link
–+ servings

Slow Cooker Million Dollar Tortellini

Print Recipe
A plate of baked pasta with tomato sauce, ricotta cheese, and basil, served on a white plate with bread, bowls, and green glasses in the background.
Start Cooking
Rate this Recipe
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:3 hours
Total Time:3 hours 10 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground Italian sausage or ground beef, browned and drained
  • 1 24-ounce jar marinara or spaghetti sauce
  • 1 8-ounce block cream cheese, cubed and softened
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup cottage cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese divided
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 24 ounces dried cheese tortellini
  • Parsley and basil for garnish

Instructions

  • In a large bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, cottage cheese, half of the mozzarella, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until smooth and well blended.
  • Spray your slow cooker with non-stick spray.
  • Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom.
  • Add half of the uncooked tortellini in an even layer.
  • Spoon half of the creamy cheese mixture over the tortellini and spread gently.
  • Add half of the browned sausage (or ground beef) on top, then pour half of the remaining marinara sauce over it.
  • Repeat the layers: tortellini, creamy cheese mix, sausage, marinara.
  • Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and all of the Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
  • Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours, or until the tortellini are tender and everything is hot and bubbly.
  • Garnish with chopped parsley and basil before serving.

Notes

Tips & Tricks

  • Layering keeps the tortellini perfectly tender and the cheese creamy instead of overmixed.
  • Use a block of cream cheese at room temperature for the smoothest texture.
  • For a stronger flavor, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or extra Italian herbs.
  • Great served with garlic bread or a side salad to soak up the cheesy sauce.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.

Substitutions

  • Swap ricotta for cottage cheese for a smoother filling.
  • Use ground beef or turkey instead of sausage.
  • Substitute Alfredo or tomato basil sauce for marinara for a different flavor.
  • Try refrigerated or frozen tortellini (adjust cooking time slightly if using fresh).

Variations

  • Spinach Tortellini Bake: Add 1–2 cups of baby spinach between the layers.
  • Extra Cheesy: Mix an additional cup of mozzarella into the creamy layer.
  • Vegetarian: Skip the sausage and add sautéed mushrooms or zucchini.
  • Baked Finish: Transfer to a casserole dish, sprinkle extra mozzarella, and broil for 2–3 minutes for a browned, bubbly top.

Private Notes

Click here to add your own private notes.
Servings: 6 servings
QR Code linking back to recipe