Creamy Sausage Tortellini Skillet
a comforting and flavorful Creamy Sausage Tortellini Skillet recipe — a one-pan dinner that’s quick, cheesy, and satisfying!
Ingredients:
1 tbsp olive oil
1 lb (450g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, diced
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
1 cup heavy cream or half & half
1/2 cup chicken broth (or water)
1 package (9 oz / 250g) refrigerated cheese tortellini
1 ½ cups fresh spinach (optional)
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt & black pepper, to taste
½ cup shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Cook sausage:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sausage and cook until browned and crumbled. Drain excess fat if needed.
2. Add aromatics:
Stir in garlic and onion; cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.
3. Add liquids:
Pour in diced tomatoes (with juice), heavy cream, and chicken broth. Stir to combine.
4. Add tortellini:
Add the tortellini straight from the package. Stir gently.
5. Simmer:
Bring to a simmer, then cover and cook for 6–8 minutes, or until tortellini is tender.
6. Finish:
Stir in spinach (if using) and let it wilt for 1–2 minutes. Add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.
7. Add cheese:
Sprinkle with mozzarella or Parmesan, cover for 2 minutes until melted and gooey.
8. Serve:
hot and garnish with fresh parsley or extra cheese if you like!
Tips:
For extra richness, add 1 tbsp cream cheese.
Make it spicy with crushed red pepper or spicy Italian sausage.
Use frozen tortellini? Just cook 2–3 minutes longer.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I use frozen tortellini?
A: Yes! Just add 2–3 extra minutes of simmer time and ensure it’s fully cooked and tender.
Q2: Can I make it lighter?
A: Use half & half instead of heavy cream, and try turkey sausage. It still stays creamy with less fat.
Q3: Is it freezer-friendly?
A: It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze leftovers. Reheat gently with a splash of broth or cream.
Q4: Can I make it without tomatoes?
A: Absolutely — just skip the canned Tomatoes.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 580–650 kcal
Protein: 22–25 grams
Carbohydrates: 30–35 grams
Fat: 40–45 grams
Saturated Fat: 18–20 grams
Fiber: 2–4 grams
Sodium: 950–1100 mg