Cheesy Spinach Lasagna Soup

1/2 lb. Italian turkey sausage or (ground beef in chunks for those who don't like sausage)

2 T minced onion4 large garlic cloves, minced
1 can petite diced tomatoes {no salt added}
1 C tomato sauce
2 C fresh spinach
4 C chicken broth
2 tsp. basil
2 tsp. oregano
salt and pepper, to taste
1 C tortellini {whole wheat, preferred}
if desired, an additional 1/2 C pasta
1/8 C mozzarella cheese, diced into small cubes

Begin by browning the meat in a large stockpot.  Add in the minced garlic and onion and cook until the meat is done.  Drain any excess grease.  

Then, add in the tomatoes {undrained}, tomato sauce, and chicken broth.  Add in the spices.  Bring the soup to a light boil and then reduce to a simmer. 

Simmer the soup for 30 minutes or longer... ours ended up simmering for ~1 hour.

Then, add in the spinach and pasta.  Allow these to cook for about 20 minutes while the pasta cooks slowly at a simmer. 

Remove from the heat and then add in the diced mozzarella cheese. 

Serve warm with a crusty bread and sprinkle the tops with Parmesan cheese, if desired.