wayne Crockpot Italian Sausage and Tortellini Soup

1  lb.		mild or hot Italian sausages, casings removed
1/2  cup		large onion, chopped
1  cup		carrots, peeled and chopped
4  cups		beef or chicken stock
1/2  teaspoon		dried Italian seasoning
1/2  teaspoon		salt
1/4  teaspoon		freshly ground black pepper
7  ounces		tomato sauce
19  ounces		diced tomatoes, with juices
2  cups		sliced mushrooms
10  ounces		fresh or frozen cheese-filled tortellini
1  piece		zucchini, quartered lengthwise and chopped
1/4  cup		chopped fresh parsley
2  tablespoons		freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Tip: For nutritional information on all the ingredients in wayne Crockpot Italian Sausage and Tortellini Soup just click on each ingredient name. Then adjust the serving size for any wayne Crockpot Italian Sausage and Tortellini Soup ingredient with the serving size tool in the nutrition facts area to the right to see how you can save calories, carbs and more.

1.In a large nonstick skillet, over medium-high heat, cook sausage for 8 to 10 minutes, or until browned, stirring to break up meat. With a slotted spoon, transfer to slow cooker stoneware.

2.Add onion, carrots, stock, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, tomato sauce, tomatoes and mushrooms to slow cooker.

3.Cover and cook on Low for 6 to 10 hours or on High for 3 to 4 hours, until vegetables are tender. Meanwhile, cook tortellini according to package directions. Drain. Add tortellini, zucchini and parsley to slow cooker and cook on High for 15 to 20 minutes longer, or until heated through and zucchini is tender.

4.Spoon into individual bowls and top with grated Parmesan cheese.