italian sausage and tortellini recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
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The Best italian sausage and tortellini recipe

I’ve been making Italian Sausage and Tortellini recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. The combination of sweet Italian sausage, creamy cheese-filled tortellini, and a hint of herbs in the tomato sauce is a match made in heaven.

My kids love it because it’s easy to make and always tastes like something special. I love it because it’s a perfect balance of flavors and textures that never fails to satisfy.

The best part is that it’s relatively quick to prepare and can be made in under 30 minutes, making it a great option for busy weeknights or special occasions alike. The dish originated from Italy, where sausage and cheese are staples of many traditional recipes.

In fact, the name ‘tortellini’ itself comes from the Italian word for ‘twisted,’ which refers to the shape of the pasta. Over time, this dish has evolved into many variations, but its core elements remain the same: rich flavors, hearty portions, and an abundance of love.

When I’m feeling stressed or overwhelmed, this recipe always brings me back to a place of comfort and joy. There’s something about the simple yet satisfying combination of flavors that just feels right.

My family has grown up with this recipe, and now they request it regularly for family gatherings or when they need a comforting meal after school or work.

Italian Sausage and Tortellini Skillet

4.7 from 690 votes

A hearty one-pan meal featuring savory Italian sausage and cheese tortellini in a rich tomato cream sauce. This quick and satisfying dish comes together in under 30 minutes for a perfect weeknight dinner.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time20 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time30 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 520 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 pound mild or hot Italian sausage, casings removed
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small yellow onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1 (20 ounce) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley for garnish

👨‍🍳Directions

1Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
2Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes.
3Reduce heat to medium and add the diced onion to the skillet.
4Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is softened and translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes.
5Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
6Pour in the undrained diced tomatoes and chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
7Add the heavy cream, red pepper flakes if using, dried basil, and dried oregano.
8Stir to combine and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
9Add the refrigerated tortellini to the skillet and stir to coat them in the sauce.
10Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer gently for 5 to 7 minutes, or until the tortellini are tender and have absorbed some of the liquid.
11Remove the lid and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce has thickened slightly.
12Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.
13Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately with extra Parmesan on the side.

🔧Equipment

Large skillet or Dutch oven with lid
Wooden spoon or spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Chef’s knife and cutting board

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 520 kcal🧈Total Fat: 28g💛Saturated Fat: 12g❤️Cholesterol: 85mg🧂Sodium: 1100mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 24g

📝Notes

For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream. You can also add a cup of fresh spinach with the tortellini for extra greens. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Watch Video Of How Italian Sausage and Tortellini Skillet Works

This Italian Sausage and Tortellini recipe is a staple in our household because it’s easy to make yet tastes like something special every time.

Whether we’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or planning a family gathering, this recipe never fails to deliver on flavor and satisfaction.

One tip I have for storing leftovers is to keep them in an air-tight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze them for up to two months.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Italian Sausage and Tortellini Skillet

1. What is the best type of Italian sausage to use in this recipe?

For this recipe, you want to use a sweet Italian sausage with fennel seeds and garlic. This type of sausage has a mild flavor that complements the creaminess of the tortellini without overpowering it.

2. Can I use different types of pasta instead of tortellini?

While you can use other types of pasta, tortellini is specifically designed to hold onto the flavorful sauce well. Other options like penne or rigatoni will not provide the same experience.

3. How do I prevent the tortellini from sticking together?

To prevent sticking, make sure to cook your tortellini until al dente before adding them to the sauce.

4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time by cooking the sausage and tortellini separately and then combining them with the sauce just before serving.

5. Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

No, this recipe contains Italian sausage as its main protein source.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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