This One Pan Tortellini with Sausage is a quick and tasty meal that comes together in one handy dish. With cheesy tortellini and savory sausage, it’s perfect for a busy night!
You’ll love how easy it is to clean up after because there’s only one pan to wash! I like adding a sprinkle of cheese on top for that extra yum factor. Enjoy while it’s warm!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: You can choose either mild or spicy sausage for this dish, depending on your taste. If you want a lighter option, try using chicken or turkey sausage. They work great without sacrificing flavor!
Tortellini: Fresh cheese tortellini is lovely, but frozen works just as well and is often more convenient. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, there are various gluten-free pasta alternatives available in stores.
Spinach: Fresh spinach gives this dish a bright color and nutrients. If you don’t have spinach, try using kale or Swiss chard, or even frozen spinach if that’s what you have on hand.
Heavy Cream: This adds creaminess to the sauce. If you want a lighter version, consider using half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free option. Just taste to adjust for sweetness with coconut milk.
How Can I Make Sure My Tortellini Is Cooked Just Right?
Cooking the tortellini properly is vital to the dish. They should be tender but not mushy. Here’s how to ensure the perfect texture:
- Start with enough broth to cover the tortellini and avoid sticking. Stir well after adding them to the pot.
- Simmer gently; a rapid boil can overcook the pasta quickly. Aim for a gentle simmer.
- Taste a piece after about 5 minutes. Fresh tortellini cooks fast, while frozen may need a few extra minutes.
Keep an eye on them and take them off the heat as soon as they’re al dente!
One Pan Tortellini with Sausage
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Dish:
- 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy), sliced or crumbled
- 1 lb (450g) fresh cheese tortellini (or frozen)
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 ½ cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- ½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes from start to finish. It includes around 10 minutes for preparation and about 20 minutes for cooking. This quick dish makes for a perfect weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Sausage:
In a large skillet or deep sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage, breaking it up if using ground sausage, or cooking the slices until browned and cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, remove the sausage from the pan and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
In the same pan, add the chopped onion. Cook until softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. This will fill your kitchen with a delicious aroma!
3. Add the Tomatoes:
Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices and stir everything together. Let simmer for about 2 minutes to blend the flavors.
4. Add Tortellini and Broth:
Next, add the uncooked tortellini to the pan, followed by the chicken broth. Make sure to stir well to prevent the tortellini from sticking together.
5. Simmer The Mixture:
Bring the mixture to a simmer, cover the pan, and cook for about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally until the tortellini are tender and have absorbed most of the liquid. Keep an eye on it to make sure it doesn’t boil over!
6. Combine Everything:
Stir the cooked sausage back into the pan, then add in the fresh spinach leaves. Stir until the spinach has wilted down, which will take just a minute or two.
7. Make It Creamy:
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the sauce is creamy and well combined. Season with salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes, if you like a little heat.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from heat and garnish your dish with extra Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley. Serve immediately, hot from the pan!
Enjoy this hearty, comforting one-pan meal that combines cheesy tortellini, savory sausage, and a creamy tomato sauce—all in one pot for easy cleanup!
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini?
Absolutely! Frozen tortellini works great in this recipe—just add them directly to the pan without thawing. They may need an extra minute or two to ensure they’re fully cooked.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even whole milk. For a dairy-free alternative, try coconut milk or cashew cream for a similar creaminess while keeping it plant-based.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or cream to help maintain the sauce’s consistency.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to incorporate other veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini. Just make sure to sauté them along with the onions for the best flavor and texture.
