Really easy...
Just brown some ground Italian sausage in a big pot (I used hot), then remove to a paper towel lined plate (blot as much grease off as you can, but don't rinse), then in the same pot, saute a bunch of diced carrots, celery, shallots (or onion), crushed garlic and Italian seasoning (basil, thyme, parsley, etc) for about 10 minutes (may have to add a little olive oil) until tender.
Then add a bunch of chicken (or vegetable) stock (I added 2 cartons of chicken stock), partially cover and let simmer for about 15-20 minutes. Add sausage back in and bring to a low boil. Make a little slurry with flour and water (about 3 T of flour...stir with water until lump free) and pour in while stirring until thickened slightly. Add fresh tortellini (any kind...I used 3-cheese) and about a cup of half n half, and a couple big handsful of fresh baby spinach (it wilts immediately), simmer until the tortellini puffs up (about 2 minutes) and serve!
You can make your own tortellini, but store bought is fine (the fresh stuff in the refrigerator section, not dried or frozen). There's never a drop left!
(*edit Season to taste with salt and pepper at the end since the sausage and stock have salt in them.)
