Step 1

In a large sauté pan over medium high heat, add olive oil and once hot, add the sausage and break up into bite sized pieces as it browns.

Step 2

After the sausage browns, about five minutes, remove the sausage to the slow cooker but leave the fat in the pan.

Step 3

Keep the pan on medium high and add the onion, carrot, celery and garlic. Cook until slightly browned and almost tender, about 5-8 minutes.

Step 4

Add a splash of the stock to deglaze the pan then add the pan contents to the slow cooker along with all other ingredients.

Step 5

Cook 3-4 hours on low until the tortellini is tender.

Step 6

Serve immediately.