If you’re looking to indulge in a meal that wraps you in warmth and delight, this Creamy Italian Sausage Tortellini is exactly what you need. With tender tortellini nestled in a luscious blend of Alfredo and marinara, punctuated by savory Italian sausage, each bite is a symphony of flavors you’ll crave over and over again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bursting with Flavor: Each bite combines the creamy richness of Alfredo with robust Italian sausage.
- Quick and Easy: Get dinner on the table in just 25 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Comfort Cooking: The creamy sauce and tender tortellini offer the ultimate comfort food satisfaction.
- A Family Favorite: Loved by kids and adults alike, it’s a guaranteed pleaser at any table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe relies on simple yet impactful ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in building the layers of flavor that define this dish. Let’s dive into the essentials that make this Creamy Italian Sausage Tortellini a standout meal.
- Italian Sausage: Opt for a high-quality sausage to enrich the sauce with savory goodness.
- Chopped Onion: Provides a sweet and pungent base to elevate the flavor profile.
- Minced Garlic: Fresh garlic boosts aroma and depth, taking the dish to new flavorful heights.
- Rao’s Alfredo Sauce: Its creamy texture is perfect for creating a luxurious base.
- Rao’s Marinara Sauce: Adds a hint of tang and zest to balance the dish.
- Frozen Cheese Tortellini: Convenience meets quality for a quick yet satisfying meal.
- Italian Seasoning: A blend that’s quintessential for authentic Italian flavor.
- Red Pepper Flakes: Adjust to taste for that perfect underlying heat.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Melts beautifully to crown your dish with a cheesy layer.
- Parsley Flakes: For a pop of color and fresh herb finish.
Variations
What’s wonderful about this recipe is its adaptability. You can easily tweak it to suit your dietary needs or taste preferences without compromising on flavor. Here are some creative variations to consider.
- Vegetarian Version: Swap out the sausage for a hearty mix of mushrooms and bell peppers.
- Spicy Twist: Use spicy Italian sausage and increase the red pepper flakes for a fiery kick.
- Low-Carb Option: Replace tortellini with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a lighter meal.
- Rich and Creamy: Add a splash of heavy cream for an extra decadent sauce.
How to Make Creamy Italian Sausage Tortellini
Step 1: Sauté the Sausage and Onions
Begin by heating a large skillet over medium-high. Add your Italian sausage and chopped onions. Cook until the sausage is browned and the onions are soft, ensuring to stir occasionally for even cooking. Be sure to drain any excess grease for a cleaner final dish.
Step 2: Blend the Sauces
Reduce the heat to medium-low and stir in the minced garlic, Alfredo sauce, marinara, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Mix well to combine all these wonderful flavors, allowing the garlic to infuse its essence into the sauce.
Step 3: Cook the Tortellini
Add the frozen cheese tortellini to the skillet, stirring to ensure that every piece is nestled in that creamy sauce. Cover with a lid and let it simmer until the tortellini is tender and sumptuous.
Step 4: Finish with Cheese
Top the tortellini with shredded mozzarella and either pop it in a preheated oven at 400°F just until the cheese melts, or simply leave it on the stove, covered, to achieve that gooey, irresistible cheese layer. Sprinkle with parsley flakes before serving.
Pro Tips for Making Creamy Italian Sausage Tortellini
- Sausage Choice: For the best flavor, use freshly ground Italian sausage, and customize spice level to taste preferences.
- Cheese Layer: If using the oven, keep a close eye to prevent the cheese from browning too much.
- Garlic Infusion: Add garlic early in the process to ensure its flavor melds throughout the dish.
- Balance Spice: Adjust the red pepper flakes based on your preferred level of heat, tasting as you go.
How to Serve Creamy Italian Sausage Tortellini
Garnishes
To enhance the visuals and flavor, sprinkle finely chopped fresh parsley and a dusting of Parmesan cheese just before serving. These garnishes add that gourmet touch!
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with a light arugula salad or roasted vegetables. You might also consider some garlic bread for an extra indulgent experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving in individual ramekins for a personal touch, or present it family-style in a large, rustic skillet for a cozy, welcoming feel.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Creamy Italian Sausage Tortellini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat with a splash of milk to return to its creamy consistency.
Freezing
This dish can be frozen before the step of adding mozzarella cheese. Wrap it tightly in foil and store it for up to two months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating and adding cheese.
Reheating
Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or milk to help restore its creamy texture. Stir occasionally until heated through.
FAQs
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Can I use fresh tortellini instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Just reduce the cooking time slightly as fresh tortellini will cook more quickly than frozen.
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Is there a vegetarian sausage that works well with this dish?
Yes, you can find plant-based Italian sausage options at many grocery stores. They pair well with this recipe and maintain its robust flavor.
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Can I make this dairy-free?
To make this dairy-free, substitute your favorite non-dairy cream sauce and cheese alternatives.
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What’s the best way to reheat this dish without drying it out?
Gently reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a bit of milk or water to keep the sauce creamy and prevent it from drying out.
Final Thoughts
Embark on a delicious journey with this Creamy Italian Sausage Tortellini and let it become a beloved part of your recipe repertoire. Its enduring comfort and rich taste make it a must-try for anyone seeking a little joy in their mealtime. Bon appétit!
Print
Creamy Italian Sausage Tortellini Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Pasta
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
Creamy Italian Sausage Tortellini is a rich and flavorful dish combining tender cheese tortellini with savory Italian sausage and a luscious Alfredo and marinara sauce blend. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers hearty comfort with melted mozzarella and fresh parsley topping.
Ingredients
Meat and Aromatics
- 1 lb Italian sausage
- 1 chopped onion
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
Sauces and Seasonings
- 15 oz jar Rao’s Alfredo sauce
- 15 oz Rao’s Marinara sauce
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
Cheese and Garnish
- 19 oz frozen cheese tortellini
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Parsley flakes for garnish
Instructions
- Cook Sausage and Onions: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add Italian sausage and chopped onion. Cook until the sausage is browned and the onion is translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess grease.
- Add Garlic and Sauces: Turn the heat down to medium-low. Stir in minced garlic, Alfredo sauce, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Mix well to combine.
- Add Tortellini: Stir in frozen cheese tortellini, making sure they are well coated with the sauce. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for about 8-10 minutes until tortellini are tender and heated through.
- Melting Cheese: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Place the skillet in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes until cheese has melted. Alternatively, keep on stove covered until cheese melts.
- Serve: Garnish with dried parsley flakes and serve hot directly from the skillet for a comforting, cheesy meal.
Notes
- Use fresh or frozen tortellini for best texture; do not thaw before adding.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to taste for more or less heat.
- If not using oven, simply cover the skillet and let the cheese melt naturally on the stove.
- Adding grated Parmesan cheese on top adds extra flavor.
- This dish pairs well with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 1300 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 50 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 24 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg
