Sausage Tortellini Soup (Print Version)

Ingredients:

01 - 12 oz Crumbled Italian Sausage (spicy or mild), for a flavorful and savory base.
02 - 1 tbsp Olive Oil, to cook the sausage and vegetables.
03 - 1 tbsp Italian Seasoning, for added herbal flavor.
04 - 1 tsp Paprika (regular or smoked), for a hint of smokiness.
05 - 1 Large Sweet Potato (peeled, cubed), providing sweetness and texture.
06 - 5 Cloves Garlic (minced), for a fragrant kick.
07 - ¼ tsp Red Pepper Flakes, to add some heat.
08 - 1 tbsp Tomato Paste, for rich tomato flavor.
09 - 6 Cups Water, to create the soup base.
10 - 8 oz Tortellini (three-cheese, refrigerated), adding richness and texture.
11 - 4 oz Fresh Spinach, for a boost of color and nutrients.
12 - ½ Cup Heavy Cream, for a creamy finish.
13 - 4 tbsp Fresh Thyme, for a fresh herbal topping.

Instructions:

01 - Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the crumbled sausage and cook until browned. Drain any excess grease.
02 - Sprinkle the cooked sausage with Italian seasoning and paprika. Add the cubed sweet potato, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and tomato paste. Stir to combine all ingredients.
03 - Pour in the water, bring the mixture to a boil, and then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and cook for 15 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
04 - Stir in the tortellini and cook according to package instructions, usually around 10 minutes.
05 - Add the spinach and stir until it wilts. Remove the soup from heat.
06 - Stir in the heavy cream, then taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and more red pepper flakes if desired. Top with fresh thyme before serving.

Notes:

01 - This creamy soup is a comforting meal, rich with sausage, sweet potatoes, and cheesy tortellini. It's the perfect combination of savory, sweet, and creamy!.