In a skillet set over medium-high heat, brown and crumble the sausage. Now add the cooking oil and saute the onions until lightly browned. Add to the slow cooker.
Now add the carrots, celery, tomatoes, tomato paste thyme, and basil. Pour over the chicken broth. WAIT TO ADD THE HEAVY CREAM, KALE AND TORTELINI.
Cover and cook on HIGH for 2.5 hours or LOW for 4 hours.
After the cooking time is up, add the kale, and tortellini to the crockpot. Place the lid back on and cook for an additional 30 minutes on HIGH.
Add the heavy cream and cook for 10 more minutes on HIGH or until soup is hot again.
Serve with parmesan and red pepper flakes if desired.
Notes
Can I use a different kind of tortellini?As long as it's the refrigerated variety, you can use it! You can use spinach (green) or even chicken-filled tortellini. This recipe has not been tested with frozen or dried tortellini.Can I make this into a freezer meal?Yes, but we highly recommend waiting to add the heavy cream, kale, and tortellini until cook time.Can I use chicken instead of sausage?Yes, though you'll want to cook a little longer until the chicken is cooked through and shreddable. (about an hour longer).How do I store leftovers?Pour the remainder of the soup into an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.