Ingredients:
1 lb Italian sausage (bulk or casing removed)
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken broth
2 cups heavy cream
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
1 package (9 oz) cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
2 cups baby spinach (or kale, optional)
1 teaspoon dried basil
½ teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
Parmesan cheese, for garnish
Instructions:
Cook the Sausage:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until browned and fully cooked (about 5-7 minutes). Drain any excess fat.
Sauté the Vegetables:
Add the onion to the pot with the sausage and cook for 3-4 minutes, until softened. Add the garlic and sauté for an additional 1 minute, until fragrant.
Add Broth and Tomatoes:
Pour in the chicken broth and add the diced tomatoes (with juice). Stir in the basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Cook the Tortellini:
Add the cheese tortellini to the soup and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 3-5 minutes for fresh tortellini or 7-8 minutes for frozen.
Add the Cream and Spinach:
Stir in the heavy cream and baby spinach. Let the spinach wilt and cook for 2-3 minutes until the soup becomes creamy and the spinach is tender.
Season to Taste:
Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Add more red pepper flakes if you prefer extra heat.
Serve:
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Serve with crusty bread on the side for dipping!
Enjoy this Hearty Sausage and Tortellini Soup! 🍲 With its comforting broth, savory sausage, creamy texture, and tender tortellini, this soup is sure to warm you up and satisfy your hunger. Perfect for chilly nights or a family dinner!
