If you’re seeking a deliciously satisfying dish that’s both effortless and packed with flavor, this One Pan Tortellini with Sausage recipe is here to win over your taste buds. With just one pan, 25 minutes, and a few simple ingredients, you’ll be savoring a hearty, comforting meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This One Pan Tortellini with Sausage takes just 25 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Minimal Cleanup: With only one pan required, you can spend less time washing dishes and more time enjoying your meal.
- Rich and Creamy Flavor: The combination of Italian sausage and cheese tortellini delivers a comforting and indulgent dish that everyone will love.
- Customizable: Easily adapt the ingredients to suit your tastes or dietary preferences.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients is a breeze! Each plays an integral role in crafting the perfect One Pan Tortellini with Sausage. From the savory sausage to the lush spinach, every component adds a dash of magic to your dish.
- Italian Sausages: Choose a mild or hot variety depending on your spice preference. They bring a hearty flavor and satisfying protein.
- Garlic: Fresh cloves add a fragrant burst of flavor. Mince them finely for even distribution.
- Chicken Broth: A little liquid helps merge the flavors and cook the tortellini to perfection.
- Diced Tomatoes: Use a can with juices included for a tangy, saucy base that envelops the pasta.
- Heavy Cream: Provides a creamy, rich consistency that melds with the tomato base beautifully.
- Cheese Tortellini: These delightful pasta pillows soak up the sauce, becoming tender and delightful.
- Fresh Spinach: Offers a pop of color and nutrition; simply let it wilt into the sauce.
- Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste as you go.
- Freshly Grated Parmesan: Optional, but perfect for sprinkling on top for added savory notes.
Variations
This One Pan Tortellini with Sausage is wonderfully adaptable. Whether you’re catering to dietary needs or simply want a different flavor profile, try these variations to make it your own personal masterpiece.
- Vegetarian: Omit the sausage and add more veggies like mushrooms or bell peppers for a vegetarian delight.
- Spicy Twist: Use hot Italian sausages or add a dash of red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
- Cheese Lovers: Add some mozzarella balls to melt in for a gooey and cheesy treat.
How to Make One Pan Tortellini with Sausage
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start by removing the sausage meat from its casings and crumbling it directly into a skillet. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is browned through. If there’s excess fat, you can drain most of it, but leave a little for flavor!
Step 2: Create the Sauce and Cook the Tortellini
Add minced garlic, chicken broth, diced tomatoes with juice, cream, and tortellini to the pan. Let them cook uncovered, stirring now and then, until the tortellini is perfectly cooked and the sauce is creamy and slightly reduced. The starch from the tortellini helps thicken the sauce as it cooks.
Step 3: Incorporate Spinach and Season
Stir in the fresh spinach and watch it wilt into the creamy mixture almost immediately. Season your One Pan Tortellini with Sausage with salt and pepper to taste, and if you’re a fan of cheese, sprinkle some freshly grated parmesan over the top before serving.
Pro Tips for Making One Pan Tortellini with Sausage
- Sausage Selection: Opt for quality Italian sausages for the best flavor foundation. Experiment with different heat levels to suit your taste.
- Sauce Consistency: Let the sauce simmer uncovered for a few more minutes if you prefer it thicker. The tortellini will release starch, helping it naturally thicken.
- Spinach Freshness: Add the spinach right at the end to ensure it retains color and nutrition, making your dish both tasty and vibrant.
- Cheese on Top: Finely grate parmesan directly over the dish just before serving for that extra cheesy, finishing touch.
How to Serve One Pan Tortellini with Sausage
Garnishes
Top off your One Pan Tortellini with Sausage with freshly grated parmesan or a sprinkle of chopped fresh basil. These simple garnishes enhance the flavors and add a lovely visual appeal to your dish.
Side Dishes
Pair this dish with a crisp side salad or some crusty garlic bread for a complete meal. The freshness of a salad contrasts beautifully with the creamy pasta, while garlic bread is perfect for mopping up every bit of sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve in individual bowls with the tortellini neatly piled for an inviting presentation. Consider using brightly colored plates to make the vibrant greens and reds of the dish pop.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover One Pan Tortellini with Sausage in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making for a delicious lunch later in the week.
Freezing
To freeze, portion the dish into individual servings and place them in airtight, freezer-safe containers. This meal can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Defrost in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat the dish gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to restore creaminess if needed. Alternatively, warm it in the microwave until heated through.
FAQs
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Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes, frozen tortellini can be used. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure it’s fully cooked and the sauce is thickened to your liking.
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What can I substitute for heavy cream?
I don’t recommend substituting in this recipe since heavy cream balances the acidity of the tomatoes without curdling. For a dairy-free option, you could attempt using coconut cream, noting that it will slightly alter the flavor.
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How can I make this dish spicier?
To spice things up, opt for hot Italian sausages or add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce as it simmers. Adjust to taste.
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Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Consider adding diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor. Just sauté them along with the sausage to ensure they are cooked properly.
Final Thoughts
This One Pan Tortellini with Sausage is not only a cinch to make but also scrumptiously satisfying! I wholeheartedly invite you to try it and watch the smiles appear around your table. Whether for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, it’s a recipe that promises to delight. Happy cooking!
Print
One Pan Tortellini with Sausage Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This One Pan Tortellini with Sausage is a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal that combines Italian sausage, cheesy tortellini, fresh spinach, and a creamy tomato sauce all cooked together in one skillet. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner, it’s easy to prepare and requires minimal cleanup, making it a favorite for comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Meat and Aromatics
- 11 ounces Italian sausages crumbled, see note
- 3 cloves garlic minced
Liquids and Sauce
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 (14 ounce) can diced tomatoes with juices
- 1/2 cup heavy/whipping cream
Pastas and Vegetables
- 1 (9 ounce) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 2 cups loosely packed fresh baby spinach
Seasonings and Garnishes
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Freshly grated parmesan cheese optional, to taste
Instructions
- Sauté the sausage: Remove the sausage meat from the casings and crumble it into a large skillet. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary, leaving the sausage in the skillet.
- Add aromatics and liquids: Stir in the minced garlic, then pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes with juices, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer.
- Add tortellini: Add the refrigerated cheese tortellini to the skillet. Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes until the tortellini is tender and the sauce has thickened to your liking, with starch released from the pasta helping to thicken the sauce.
- Incorporate spinach: Stir in the spinach and cook until wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
- Season and serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
- I used 3 sausages from a 5-pack of Johnsonville mild Italian sausages. Anything around 11 oz will work, or you can increase the sausage amount for a meatier dish.
- Hot Italian sausages can be used if you prefer a spicier flavor.
- Heavy cream is recommended to prevent curdling due to the acidity of the tomatoes; substitutes like milk or half-and-half are not recommended.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (about 1/4 of recipe)
- Calories: 594 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 1063 mg
- Fat: 41 g
- Saturated Fat: 17 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 24 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 34 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 23 g
- Cholesterol: 117 mg
