why make this recipe
This Tortellini and Sausage Skillet cooks fast and tastes rich. It uses simple ingredients and one pan. You get creamy sauce, browned sausage, and tender tortellini in about 30 minutes. If you like quick skillet meals, try this like the Cheesy Sausage Rice Skillet for another easy dinner idea.
introduction
This dish uses cheese tortellini and Italian sausage in a creamy tomato sauce. You can add spinach for color and extra greens. The steps are easy and the food is filling. It works for weeknights or a quick weekend meal.
how to make Tortellini and Sausage Skillet
Ingredients :
- 1 package cheese tortellini
- 1 pound Italian sausage (casings removed)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup spinach (optional)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Directions :
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the sausage and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the diced tomatoes and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in the heavy cream and let it all combine.
- Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to package instructions until tender.
- If using, stir in the spinach until wilted.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve with grated Parmesan cheese on top.
how to serve Tortellini and Sausage Skillet
Serve hot from the skillet. Add grated Parmesan on top and a little black pepper. A simple side salad or crusty bread goes well. For another creamy pasta skillet idea, you can look at this Cheesy Ranch Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Skillet.
how to store Tortellini and Sausage Skillet
Let the skillet cool to room temp. Put leftovers in an airtight container. Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat and add a splash of cream or water if it feels thick. You can freeze for up to 2 months, but texture may change after thawing.
tips to make Tortellini and Sausage Skillet
- Use fresh tortellini for best texture, but frozen or refrigerated both work.
- Brown the sausage well for more flavor.
- Keep the heat medium so the cream does not boil and split.
- If sauce is too thin, simmer a few minutes. If too thick, add a little water or broth.
variation (if any)
- Swap the Italian sausage for turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter dish.
- Add mushrooms, bell pepper, or onion when cooking the sausage.
- Stir in a handful of basil or parsley at the end for fresh flavor.
- Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen tortellini?
A: Yes. Add a few extra minutes to cook and follow package directions.
Q: Can I make this vegetarian?
A: Yes. Use plant-based sausage or omit the sausage and add mushrooms or beans.
Q: How long does this take to make?
A: About 25–35 minutes from start to finish.
Q: Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
A: You can, but the sauce will be thinner and less rich. Add a little flour or cornstarch to thicken if needed.
Conclusion
For a similar one-skillet idea and a reference recipe, see this Cheese Tortellini And Sausage Skillet – Budget Bytes (https://www.budgetbytes.com/cheese-tortellini-and-sausage-skillet/).
Tortellini and Sausage Skillet
Ingredients
Method
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the sausage and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the diced tomatoes and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in the heavy cream and let it all combine.
- Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to package instructions until tender.
- If using, stir in the spinach until wilted.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve with grated Parmesan cheese on top.