Creamy Tortellini With Sausage

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy Tortellini with Sausage is a rich, comforting pasta dish that combines cheesy tortellini, savory sausage, and a luscious cream sauce. Bursting with flavor and ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a one-pan meal that’s perfect for cozy weeknights or effortless entertaining. Creamy, cheesy, and totally satisfying—this dish is a true crowd-pleaser.

ingredients

this Recipe

Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

cheese tortellini (refrigerated or frozen)
Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
onion (chopped)
garlic (minced)
heavy cream
chicken broth
Parmesan cheese (grated)
spinach or kale (optional)
olive oil or butter
salt
black pepper
red pepper flakes (optional)

directions

In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add sausage and cook, breaking it up, until browned.

Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, then stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds.

Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add tortellini and cook according to package instructions, stirring occasionally.

Reduce heat and stir in heavy cream and Parmesan. Simmer until sauce thickens slightly.

Add spinach or kale if using, and cook until wilted.

Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste.

Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan and herbs if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15-20 minutes
Total time: 25-30 minutes

Variations

Use turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter version.
Add sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for extra flavor.
Swap cream for half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative.
Stir in mushrooms or zucchini for more veggies.
Top with mozzarella and broil for a baked version.

storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of cream or broth.
Not ideal for freezing due to the creamy sauce.

FAQs

Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes, just adjust the cooking time per the package.

What sausage works best?
Mild or spicy Italian sausage, either pork or poultry-based.

Can I make it ahead?
Yes, but it’s best served fresh for the creamiest texture.

Is this dish spicy?
It can be—add red pepper flakes to control the heat.

Can I use plant-based sausage?
Yes, it works well in this recipe.

What greens work best?
Spinach wilts quickly, while kale adds a heartier texture.

Can I omit the cream?
Use a lighter dairy or non-dairy milk, though sauce will be thinner.

What if I don’t have Parmesan?
Try Pecorino Romano or shredded mozzarella.

Can I bake this dish?
Yes, top with cheese and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes.

Does it make good leftovers?
Yes, just reheat gently to preserve the creamy texture.

Conclusion

Creamy Tortellini with Sausage is a deliciously easy dinner that’s packed with flavor, texture, and comfort. With cheesy pasta, rich sausage, and a silky sauce, this one-skillet meal is as satisfying as it is simple. Perfect for any night of the week, it’s sure to become a favorite at your table.

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