Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy, as per preference)
• 1 tbsp olive oil (if needed)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 cups (1 liter) chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained (optional for a slight tomato touch)
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 3 cups fresh spinach leaves
• 9 oz (250g) cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
• Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Instructions:

1. Cook the Sausage: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the sausage over medium heat until browned and fully cooked. Break it into small pieces as it cooks. Remove and set aside.
2. Sauté Vegetables: If there’s excess grease, drain it. Add olive oil if needed, then sauté the onion until softened (about 3-4 minutes). Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Prepare the Base: Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and diced tomatoes (if using). Stir in the Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer.
4. Cook the Tortellini: Add the tortellini and cook according to package instructions (typically 5-7 minutes for fresh tortellini).
5. Add Spinach and Sausage: Stir in the cooked sausage and spinach. Let the spinach wilt for 2-3 minutes. Adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, top with grated Parmesan cheese, and serve with crusty bread or a side salad.

Enjoy this warm and comforting meal! If you’d like, you can also tweak the recipe with other ingredients like kale, mushrooms, or additional spices.