Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup

Ingredients

• 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, based on preference)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• 2 cups fresh or frozen spinach
• 1 carrot, sliced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1 package (9 oz) cheese tortellini
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Fresh grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions

1. Brown the sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, add the Italian sausage. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, for about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
2. Add the base ingredients: Transfer the cooked sausage to the slow cooker. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, carrot, bell pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir well to combine.
3. Slow cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the vegetables are tender and flavors meld together.
4. Add tortellini: About 15 minutes before serving, stir in the tortellini and fresh spinach. Cover and let cook on high until the tortellini is tender, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Finish with cream: Once cooked, reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Allow it to warm through for about 5 minutes.
6. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, if desired.