Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup

INGREDIENTS:

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy)

1 medium onion, diced

3 garlic cloves, minced

4 cups chicken broth

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)

2 cups heavy cream

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Salt and pepper, to taste

2 cups fresh spinach, chopped

1 package (9 oz) refrigerated or frozen cheese tortellini

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

DIRECTIONS:

Cook the Sausage

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Remove any excess grease, if necessary.

Sauté the Aromatics

Add the diced onion to the pot and sauté until soft and translucent (about 5 minutes). Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Build the Soup Base

Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes (with their juices). Stir in Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer.

Add Cream and Tortellini

Stir in the heavy cream and bring the soup back to a simmer …