This One Pan Tortellini with Sausage is a cozy meal that comes together effortlessly! Juicy sausage, tasty tortellini, and colorful veggies make it a winner in my book.
You’ll love how everything cooks in one pan, making cleanup a breeze. Perfect for busy nights when you want something quick and yummy! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: You can choose mild or spicy sausage based on your taste. If you prefer a lighter option, swap it for turkey or chicken sausage. Both options are great and still pack a good flavor!
Tortellini: Fresh cheese tortellini gives the best taste, but frozen works just as well for convenience. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, use gluten-free tortellini or even gnocchi, which cooks nicely in the sauce.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds a nice touch, but you can also use kale or another leafy green. If you’re out of spinach, frozen spinach is a good alternative; just thaw and drain it before adding.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds richness, but if you’re out, Pecorino Romano is a great substitute. Vegan cheese can also fit if you want a dairy-free option!
How Do I Make Sure My Tortellini Is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking tortellini just right is crucial for this dish. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Make sure to simmer the tortellini in the broth until they float to the top. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
- If you’re using fresh tortellini, check them a bit sooner since they cook faster than frozen.
- Stir gently to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
For the best texture, avoid overcooking, as they can become mushy. Once they pop up, give them a little taste test to ensure they’re done!
One Pan Tortellini with Sausage
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy), sliced into rounds or crumbled
- 1 cup onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cheese tortellini
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Time Needed:
This delicious One Pan Tortellini with Sausage can be made in about 30 minutes! You’ll spend around 10 minutes on prep and another 20 minutes cooking everything together. It’s a quick meal perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Sausage:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the sliced or crumbled sausage, cooking until it’s nicely browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. If you’re using sausage links, cook them whole and slice them into rounds once done. If you prefer less meat, feel free to set aside half of it for later!
2. Sauté the Veggies:
Add the chopped onion to the pan and sauté it with the sausage until it becomes soft, which should take around 3 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic, cooking for just 1 minute, until fragrant. This will bring out all those lovely flavors!
3. Combine the Base Ingredients:
Pour in the can of diced tomatoes (don’t forget the juices!) and the chicken broth. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, and add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together as it starts to heat up.
4. Add the Tortellini:
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, add in the tortellini. Give it a good stir to make sure the tortellini is mixed in nicely. Cover the pan, reduce the heat to medium-low, and let it simmer until the tortellini are cooked through—about 5-7 minutes for fresh tortellini; they tend to cook a bit faster than frozen!
5. Finish with Spinach and Parmesan:
Once the tortellini are tender, stir in the chopped spinach and cook until it’s just wilted, about 2 minutes. Then, take the pan off the heat and mix in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s melted and creamy.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, sprinkled with extra Parmesan and topped with chopped fresh parsley for a nice finishing touch. Enjoy your hearty and comforting One Pan Tortellini with Sausage!
Can I Use Different Types of Sausage?
Absolutely! You can use turkey sausage for a lighter option or even chicken sausage for a milder flavor. Feel free to experiment with different varieties to find your favorite!
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! You can easily make this vegetarian by omitting the sausage and adding more vegetables instead, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. You could also use a plant-based sausage for added texture and flavor.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, just warm it up gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if it seems a bit dry.
Can I Freeze This Dish?
Yes! This dish freezes well. Just be sure to let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be kept frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm on the stove or microwave.
