Slow Cooker Creamy Vodka Tortellini with Savory Meatballs
Life can get hectic, especially on busy weekdays filled with work and children's activities. This Slow Cooker Creamy Vodka Tortellini with Savory Meatballs offers a blissfully easy solution for dinner without compromising on flavor or nutrition. By combining smooth and rich vodka sauce with tender cheese tortellini and flavorful meatballs, this dish brings comfort to your table. Just toss the ingredients into your slow cooker in the morning, and return home to a home-cooked dinner that the whole family will love. Plus, it's perfect for pairing with a side of garlic bread and a fresh salad for a complete meal!
6
Servings
275
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Frozen cheese tortellini
1.5 lb (No preparation needed; add directly to the crock pot.)
Frozen Italian-style meatballs
1.5 lb (No preparation needed; add directly to the crock pot.)
Vodka sauce
20 oz (Use your favorite pasta vodka sauce; pour into the crock pot.)
Tomato sauce
8 oz (Open the can and pour into the crock pot.)
Red pepper flakes
1 tsp (Add according to your heat preference.)
Dried Italian seasoning
1 tbsp (Sprinkle into the crock pot and mix well.)
Water
1 cup (Add to the crock pot.)
Mozzarella cheese, shredded
2 cups (Reserve for topping before serving.)
Instructions
1
In a slow cooker, combine the frozen cheese tortellini, frozen meatballs, vodka sauce, tomato sauce, red pepper flakes, dried Italian seasoning, and water. Stir gently to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
2
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours. The sauce should be bubbling, and the pasta and meatballs should be tender and heated through.
3
Shortly before serving, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top, cover, and let it melt for about 10-15 minutes.
4
Ladle the dish into bowls and serve hot. This dish pairs beautifully with garlic bread and a fresh salad for a hearty meal.
Nutrition Information
10g
Fat
35g
Carbs
12g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Slow Cooker Creamy Vodka Tortellini with Savory Meatballs?
This is a convenient one-dish meal that combines cheese tortellini, Italian-style meatballs, and a rich vodka sauce cooked in a slow cooker.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe makes 6 servings.
What are the primary ingredients?
The main ingredients include frozen cheese tortellini, frozen Italian-style meatballs, vodka sauce, tomato sauce, red pepper flakes, dried Italian seasoning, water, and shredded mozzarella cheese.
Do I need to thaw the frozen meatballs or tortellini?
No, you can add both the frozen cheese tortellini and the frozen meatballs directly to the slow cooker without any prior thawing.
How long should I cook this dish?
The recipe calls for cooking on the low setting for 6 hours.
Can I adjust the spiciness of the dish?
Yes, you can adjust the amount of red pepper flakes used according to your personal heat preference.
How many calories are in a single serving?
There are 275 calories per serving.
What is the protein content per serving?
Each serving contains 12g of protein.
How much fat is in this recipe?
There are 10g of fat per serving.
What is the carbohydrate count?
Each serving contains 35g of carbohydrates.
When should I add the mozzarella cheese?
Add the shredded mozzarella cheese shortly before serving, letting it melt for about 10 to 15 minutes while covered.
Is it necessary to boil the tortellini before adding it to the slow cooker?
No, the tortellini will cook and soften directly in the sauce within the slow cooker.
What side dishes are recommended with this meal?
This dish pairs beautifully with a side of garlic bread and a fresh garden salad.
How much vodka sauce is required?
The recipe requires one 20 oz jar of your favorite vodka sauce.
What kind of meatballs work best?
Frozen Italian-style meatballs are recommended for the best flavor profile.
Why is water added to the recipe?
One cup of water is added to ensure there is enough moisture for the frozen pasta to cook properly in the sauce.
How much Italian seasoning is needed?
The recipe uses 1 tablespoon of dried Italian seasoning.
What type of pasta is used in this dish?
The recipe specifically uses 1.5 lbs of frozen cheese tortellini.
How much tomato sauce is added?
An 8 oz can of tomato sauce is mixed into the slow cooker.
Is this recipe suitable for busy weekdays?
Yes, it is designed as an easy solution for busy schedules since it requires minimal morning prep and cooks all day.
How should I combine the ingredients in the slow cooker?
Add all ingredients except the cheese into the slow cooker and stir gently to ensure even distribution.
How much shredded mozzarella cheese is needed?
The recipe calls for 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese.
Does this recipe use red pepper flakes?
Yes, it includes 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
What preparation is needed for the tomato sauce?
No special prep is needed; just open the can and pour it into the crock pot.
What is the weight of the meatballs used in the recipe?
The recipe uses 1.5 lbs of meatballs.
What is the weight of the tortellini used in the recipe?
The recipe uses 1.5 lbs of tortellini.
How long does the cheese take to melt?
It takes approximately 10 to 15 minutes for the cheese to melt once added at the end.
Is this dish considered comfort food?
Yes, the creamy sauce, pasta, and meatballs make it a classic comfort food option.
What should I look for to know the dish is done?
The sauce should be bubbling, and both the pasta and meatballs should be tender and heated through.
Can I use a different type of cheese for the topping?
While mozzarella is recommended, you can use other melting cheeses like provolone or an Italian blend if preferred.