Smart Recipe Kitchen

2026-03-12

Serves: 6 | Total time: ~35 minutes | Why it works: Tortellini cook in the broth, thickening it naturally; sausage adds depth quickly.

Ingredients

• 12 oz Italian sausage (casings removed)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 5 cups chicken broth
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 9–10 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or refrigerated)
• 3 cups baby spinach
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
• Salt, pepper

Method

1) In a pot, brown sausage in oil over medium-high; crumble. Remove excess fat if needed.

2) Add onion; cook 3 minutes. Stir in garlic and flakes; cook 30 seconds.

3) Pour in tomatoes, broth, Italian seasoning; bring to a simmer.

4) Add tortellini; simmer 5–7 minutes until tender.

5) Stir in spinach and Parmesan; cook 1–2 minutes. Season to taste.