Some days call for a supper that practically makes itself, and this 4-ingredient slow cooker tortelloni is just the kind of meal that fits the bill. It has that old-fashioned Midwestern charm of stretching a handful of simple store-bought ingredients into something warm, hearty, and welcome at the table. Using frozen cheese tortelloni keeps things easy as can be, while the slow cooker does the heavy lifting and turns out a creamy, comforting dish that tastes like a whole lot more effort than it takes.
This tortelloni is a fine meal with a crisp green salad, buttered green beans, or a pan of garlic toast for soaking up every bit of sauce. If you want to round it out a little more, a side of roasted broccoli or simple sliced tomatoes works nicely too. For drinks, iced tea, sparkling water, or a light red sauce-friendly table wine all make good company for a cozy supper like this.
4-Ingredient Slow Cooker National Lazy Day Tortelloni
Servings: 6
Ingredients
1 bag (19 to 24 ounces) frozen cheese tortelloni
1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, cubed
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Directions
1. Lightly coat the inside of your slow cooker with nonstick spray if you like easier cleanup, then pour the frozen cheese tortelloni into the bottom in an even layer.
2. Spoon the marinara sauce over the tortelloni, then scatter the cubed cream cheese across the top.
3. Cover and cook on low for 3 to 4 hours, stirring once or twice if your schedule allows, until the tortelloni are tender and the cream cheese has melted into the sauce.
4. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese over the top, cover again, and cook for 10 to 15 minutes more until the cheese is melted. Give it a gentle stir if you want it extra gooey, then serve hot.
Variations & Tips
Add a little protein: If you'd like to make this dish heartier, stir in cooked crumbled Italian sausage or shredded rotisserie chicken during the last hour of cooking. It turns a simple pasta supper into a company-worthy main dish.
Make it extra saucy: Some tortelloni brands soak up more sauce than others, so if you like a looser, spoonable finish, add an extra half-jar of marinara. That little trick keeps everything nice and creamy.
Try a different cheese: An Italian blend or shredded provolone works just fine in place of mozzarella. A dusting of grated Parmesan at the table gives it that savory finishing touch.
Watch the cooking time: Slow cookers can run a bit differently from kitchen to kitchen, and pasta can go from tender to too soft in a hurry. Start checking around the 3-hour mark so the tortelloni stay pleasantly plump.
Freshen it up: A sprinkle of chopped basil or parsley right before serving adds color and a little brightness. If your family likes a touch of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes on top is mighty good too.