I do make a couple modifications though. I had chicken quarters in my freezer so that is what I used instead of the sausage. Browned them in a skillet on both sides than cooked them until fall off the bone. Removed and shredded the chicken than added back.
I only cook the tortellini in a separate pan right before serving since this makes such a large batch it will take us days to finish. Leaving tortellini in the soup causes them to fall apart and loose all of your liquid.
I had a few sprigs of fresh thyme so I added that as well and than removed the stems before serving.
I bet it was great.
That's one gadget I don't have yet. Maybe this year. Happy New Year!