Slow Cooker Bacon Cheeseburger Tortellini

Name: Slow Cooker Bacon Cheeseburger Tortellini
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 240 min
Total time: 255 min
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef (browned and drained); ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; ½ cup diced onion; 12 slices bacon (cooked and crumbled, divided); 1 14.5-ounce can diced tomatoes, drained; 1 1/2 cups beef broth; 1 cup tomato sauce; 1 tablespoon yellow mustard; 20 ounces refrigerated cheese tortellini; 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese

This slow cooker bacon cheeseburger tortellini is the ultimate comfort food mash-up; rich, creamy and packed with rich, savory flavor.

Slow Cooker Bacon Cheeseburger Tortellini on a plate

Think juicy ground beef, smoky crispy bacon and a tangy tomato-beef sauce infused with classic cheeseburger seasonings.

Tender cheese-filled tortellini soak up all that flavor before being finished with melted cheddar for a creamy, indulgent dinner that feels like a hug in a bowl. Perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty without the effort.

If you love the flavors in this recipe, I bet you're going to love these Pizza Sliders, Baked Mac and Cheese and my Instant Pot Chili.

Ingredients

Ground beef: Adds richness and that classic cheeseburger flavor-brown and drain well before adding.
Bacon: Brings smoky depth; cook until crispy so it holds texture in the sauce.
Diced tomatoes: Add brightness and balance to the richness of the dish.
Beef broth and tomato sauce: Form the savory base of the sauce.
Yellow mustard: The secret ingredient that gives that signature cheeseburger tang.
Cheese tortellini: Tender, cheesy, and perfect for soaking up the sauce.
Cheddar cheese: Melts into the sauce for a creamy, cheesy finish.

See recipe card for quantities.

Instructions

Slow Cooker Bacon CheeseburgerTortellini Process-3

Step 1: Add the browned ground beef to the slow cooker along with the diced onion, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, half of the crumbled bacon, and well-drained diced tomatoes.

Pour in the beef broth, tomato sauce, and mustard, then stir until everything is evenly combined.

Step 2: Pour in the beef broth, tomato sauce, and mustard, then stir until everything is evenly combined.

Step 3: Cover and cook on low for about 3 hours, allowing the flavors to develop and meld together. Stir in the cheese tortellini, making sure they are mostly submerged in the sauce. Cook 30-40 minutes.

Step 4: Add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until fully melted and creamy. Sprinkle the remaining bacon over the top and let the dish sit for about 5 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken slightly. Serve warm and enjoy.

Substitutions

Swap ground beef for ground turkey for a lighter version.
Use Colby Jack or a cheddar blend instead of sharp cheddar for a milder flavor.
Replace diced tomatoes with fire-roasted tomatoes for a deeper, smoky taste.

Variations

Cheeseburger deluxe: Stir in chopped pickles just before serving for that classic burger twist.
Saucy upgrade: Add a tablespoon of ketchup for a sweeter, more traditional cheeseburger flavor.
Extra savory: Add sautéed mushrooms for more depth and umami.

Equipment

A slow cooker does all the heavy lifting here, allowing the flavors to develop slowly and deeply. You'll also need a skillet to brown the beef and cook the bacon beforehand.

A wooden spoon or spatula is helpful for stirring everything together and ensuring even cooking.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce.

As it sits, the pasta will absorb liquid, so adding moisture when reheating is key.

Top tip

Make sure the tortellini are mostly submerged when added so they cook evenly and absorb all the flavor.

FAQ

Can I use frozen tortellini?

Yes, just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time and ensure they are fully tender before serving.

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Pasta