creamy sausage tortellini soup

### Instructions

#### 1. Brown the Sausage:
1. Heat the **olive oil** in a large soup pot over medium heat.
2. Add the **Italian sausage**, breaking it into small pieces with a spoon as it cooks. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about **5-7 minutes**.
3. Remove the sausage with a slotted spoon and set it aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.

#### 2. Sauté the Aromatics:
1. In the same pot, add the diced **onion** and cook for **3-4 minutes** until softened.
2. Stir in the minced **garlic** and cook for an additional **1 minute**, until fragrant.

#### 3. Build the Base:
1. Pour in the **chicken broth** and add the **diced tomatoes** (with their juice). Stir to combine.
2. Season with **Italian seasoning**, **crushed red pepper flakes** (if using), **salt**, and **pepper**.
3. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

#### 4. Add the Tortellini and Cream:
1. Lower the heat to medium and stir in the **heavy cream**.
2. Add the **tortellini** and let them simmer for **5-7 minutes** or until tender (refer to the package instructions for cooking time).

#### 5. Finish with Spinach:
1. Stir in the **spinach** and cooked sausage. Let the soup simmer for an additional **2-3 minutes** until the spinach wilts and the sausage is heated through.

#### 6. Serve:
1. Ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle with **grated Parmesan cheese**.
2. Serve hot with crusty bread or a side salad.

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### Tips for the Best Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup

– **Use Fresh Tortellini**: Fresh tortellini cooks faster and has a better texture than frozen or dried, but any variety will work.
– **Customize the Protein**: Swap Italian sausage with ground turkey, chicken sausage, or even plant-based sausage for a lighter option.
– **Add More Veggies**: Consider adding mushrooms, zucchini, or carrots for added nutrition and flavor.
– **Control the Spice**: Adjust the heat by adding more or less crushed red pepper flakes.

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### Why You’ll Love This Soup

1. **Easy to Make**: With simple ingredients and minimal prep, this soup comes together in under an hour.
2. **Rich and Flavorful**: The combination of creamy broth, tangy tomatoes, and savory sausage makes every bite unforgettable.
3. **Crowd-Pleaser**: It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy nights in.

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### Final Thoughts

This **Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup** is the perfect balance of indulgence and comfort. Whether you’re looking to warm up on a cold day or impress your family with a hearty homemade dish, this recipe delivers. Try it once, and it’s bound to become a favorite in your household. Grab your spoon and dig in!