Preparation:

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the Italian sausage. Break the sausage into small pieces as it cooks, stirring occasionally to ensure even browning. Cook until the sausage is fully browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes. If you’re using a leaner sausage, like chicken or turkey, you may need less cooking time.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

Once the sausage is browned, add the diced onion and minced garlic directly into the pot. Stir frequently and sauté until the onion becomes translucent and soft, which should take about 5 minutes. The garlic will become fragrant during this time, infusing the base of the soup with its robust aroma.

Step 3: Add the Liquids and Seasonings

Pour the 6 cups of chicken broth into the pot along with the can of diced tomatoes. Stir to combine the sausage, onions, and garlic with the liquids. Now, it’s time to season the soup: add 1 teaspoon of dried basil, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes (optional if you like it spicy), and salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to incorporate all the seasonings into the broth.

Step 4: Simmer and Cook the Tortellini

Bring the soup to a simmer over medium heat. Once it starts to bubble lightly, add the cheese tortellini directly into the broth. Let the tortellini cook for about 7-8 minutes, or until they are tender and cooked through. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Add Spinach and Cream

Once the tortellini are cooked, add the fresh spinach into the pot. Stir gently and let the spinach wilt, which should take about 2 minutes. After the spinach has wilted, reduce the heat to low and slowly pour in 1/2 cup of heavy cream. Stir to combine, allowing the cream to integrate into the soup and create a creamy texture.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish each serving with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. You can also add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you prefer an extra kick of spice.