Slow Cooker Tortellini Casserole with Cheesy Chicken & Pesto
There’s something irresistibly comforting about a dish that brings together tender tortellini, cheesy chicken, and aromatic basil pesto — and when it’s made in a slow cooker, it turns into a practical marvel. Introducing the Slow Cooker Tortellini Casserole with Cheesy Chicken & Pesto, a meal that fills your home with delightful scents while requiring minimal effort on your part. Perfect for busy weekdays or leisurely weekends, this dish is not just a feast for the stomach but also a delightful sensory experience, blending flavors that dance together in perfect harmony.
Imagine walking into your kitchen and being greeted by the warm, savory aroma of melted cheese and herby pesto wafting through the air. The rich flavors combine beautifully as the tomato creates a comforting sauce that envelopes each tortellini. Your first bite reveals a creamy texture, accentuated by the tenderness of the chicken, while the sharpness of the parmesan cheese provides a satisfying contrast. This casserole is more than just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl.
Why This Recipe Is Ideal
Slow Cooker Tortellini Casserole with Cheesy Chicken & Pesto is the epitome of a cozy family meal. Whether it’s a lazy Sunday morning or a bustling midweek dinner, this recipe shines when time is limited, yet the desire for something hearty and homey persists. Perfect for family gatherings or serving to guests, it’s easy to customize based on your dietary needs or preferences. Plus, who doesn’t love a meal that cooks itself while you attend to other responsibilities?
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Nutrition Information (per serving):
- Calories: 445
- Protein: 33g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 3g
Note: Nutrition information is calculated based on standard ingredient quantities and can vary based on specific brands and methods of preparation.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is a delicious powerhouse! It delivers richness from melted cheeses, freshness from the pesto, and heartiness from the chicken and tortellini. It’s a perfect one-pot meal that requires minimal cleanup, making it an excellent choice for hectic weeknights or relaxed family gatherings. You can also prepare it beforehand, allowing it to do the work while you enjoy precious moments with loved ones.
How to Make Slow Cooker Tortellini Casserole with Cheesy Chicken & Pesto
Ingredients
- 2 cups tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional ingredients: Fresh basil for garnish, red pepper flakes for a kick.
Instructions
- In a slow cooker, combine the tortellini, shredded chicken, pesto, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth. Stir well to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cover and cook on low for 4 hours, or until the tortellini are cooked through.
- About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the mozzarella and parmesan cheese.
- Cover the slow cooker again and let the cheese melt completely before serving. Enjoy your meal!
How to Serve
This casserole is delicious served plain, but you can elevate it by adding a sprinkle of fresh basil or a drizzle of olive oil over the top. It also pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad and a glass of white wine, making it an ideal dish for entertaining. For a comforting twist, serve alongside warm, crusty bread spread with butter.
How to Store
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. If you want to store it for longer, portion it out and freeze for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Expert Tips
- For the best flavor, consider using homemade pesto; it can bring a fresh and vibrant taste that store-bought versions may lack.
- If you prefer a creamier consistency, you can add a splash of heavy cream or milk toward the end of cooking.
- Monitor doneness by tasting the tortellini at the 3-hour mark to ensure they don’t overcook.
Delicious Variations
- Vegan Version: Substitute tortellini with veg-based or gluten-free options and replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas. Use a vegan pesto and plant-based cheeses.
- Gluten-Free Alternative: Use gluten-free tortellini and ensure the pesto and chicken broth are also gluten-free.
- Spicy Delight: Add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for a kick.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen tortellini?
Absolutely! You can use frozen tortellini; just add a little extra cooking time.
2. Can I substitute other proteins?
Yes! Feel free to use rotisserie chicken, turkey, or even chickpeas as a protein substitute for a different flavor profile.
3. How do I avoid a watery casserole?
If you’re concerned about excess liquid, drain the diced tomatoes before adding them to reduce moisture.
4. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Definitely! You can assemble everything in the slow cooker the night before and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.
5. What if I have leftovers?
Leftovers can be reheated in the microwave or oven. Just be sure to add a splash of broth to restore creaminess if it seems dry.
Conclusion
The Slow Cooker Tortellini Casserole with Cheesy Chicken & Pesto is a delightful dish that transforms simple ingredients into a comforting meal bursting with flavor. With minimal effort and maximum satisfaction, it’s a recipe that is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Give it a try, and let us know how yours turns out or share your creative variations! Happy cooking!
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Slow Cooker Tortellini Casserole with Cheesy Chicken & Pesto
- Total Time: 255 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free optional, Vegetarian optional
Description
A comforting slow cooker casserole combining tender tortellini, cheesy chicken, and aromatic basil pesto.
Ingredients
- 2 cups tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- In a slow cooker, combine the tortellini, shredded chicken, pesto, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth. Stir well to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cover and cook on low for 4 hours, or until the tortellini are cooked through.
- About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the mozzarella and parmesan cheese.
- Cover the slow cooker again and let the cheese melt completely before serving. Enjoy your meal!
Notes
You can elevate the dish by adding fresh basil or olive oil before serving. Pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad and warm, crusty bread.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 240 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 445
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 33g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
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