Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 medium carrots, diced
  • 2 stalks celery, diced
  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 8 ounces fresh or frozen tortellini
  • 1 cup chopped spinach or kale
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)

Instructions:

  1. In a large soup pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Add the Italian sausage; cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 5 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  3. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery; sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened.
  4. Stir in minced garlic, dried basil, salt, and pepper; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Add chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
  6. Stir in tortellini; cook according to package instructions (usually about 4-5 minutes).
  7. Remove from heat and stir in chopped spinach or kale until wilted.
  8. If using, stir in heavy cream for a luscious finish.
  9. Ladle soup into bowls and enjoy immediately.