Creamy Tortellini and Sausage Soup

Instructions

1. Cook Italian sausage in a large stockpot over medium-high heat until browned, crumbling it as it cooks.  Using a slotted spoon, transfer the cooked sausage to a separate plate and set aside.**  Reserve two tablespoons of grease in the pan, discarding the rest.  (Or if there’s not that much grease remaining, add olive oil to make up the difference.)
2. Stir in onions and carrots, and saute for 4-5 minutes or until the onions are soft and translucent, stirring occasionally.  Add in the garlic and saute for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant, stirring occasionally.  Stir in the flour until it’s evenly coating the veggies, and cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring occasionally.
3. Gradually add in the chicken stock, and stir to combine.  Continue cooking until the mixture reaches a simmer.  Then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the cooked sausage, tortellini, spinach, and milk, and continue simmering for 4-5 minutes, or until the tortellini is al dente.
5. Taste, and season with salt and pepper to taste.  (I added in about 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.)
6. Serve immediately.  Or refrigerate in a sealed container for up to 3 days.***