Step 1

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.

Step 2

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.

Step 3

Cover and cook on HIGH for 2.5 hours or LOW for 4 hours.

Step 4

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.

Step 5

Add the heavy cream and cook for 10 more minutes on HIGH or until soup is hot again.

Step 6

Serve with parmesan and red pepper flakes if desired.