Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Remove sausage from the pot and set aside.
- Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Add the diced tomatoes (undrained), cannellini beans, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a simmer.
- Return the cooked sausage to the pot. Add the tortellini and cook according to package directions, usually about 3-5 minutes, or until they are tender.
- Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through, but do not boil.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately.
Notes
Soup can be prepared 2-3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. The flavors will deepen over time. Freeze before adding tortellini for best results. Add more vegetables like spinach, kale, zucchini, or mushrooms. Substitute sausage with ground turkey, chicken, or chorizo. Spice it up with more red pepper flakes or spicy sausage. Experiment with different cheeses like Asiago or Pecorino Romano. Add fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme.
