Description
This One Pan Tortellini with Sausage is a quick and flavorful Italian-inspired meal perfect for busy weeknights. Sausage is browned and simmered with garlic, diced tomatoes, and cream to create a rich sauce that perfectly coats tender refrigerated cheese tortellini. Wilted baby spinach adds a fresh touch, and an optional sprinkle of parmesan cheese adds a savory finish. Ready in just 25 minutes, this comforting skillet meal is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
Scale
Sausage and Aromatics
- 11 ounces Italian sausages, casings removed and crumbled
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids and Sauce
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 (14 ounce) can diced tomatoes with juices
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
Pasta and Greens
- 1 (9 ounce) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 2 cups loosely packed fresh baby spinach
Seasoning and Garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Freshly grated parmesan cheese, optional, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the sausage: Remove the sausage meat from the casings and crumble it into a large skillet. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat if necessary, then leave the sausage in the pan.
- Add aromatics and liquids: Stir the minced garlic into the browned sausage and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes with their juices, and heavy cream, stirring to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Add tortellini: Add the refrigerated cheese tortellini to the skillet, ensuring they are fully submerged in the sauce. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook uncovered for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tortellini is tender and the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Finish with spinach and season: Stir in the fresh baby spinach and cook for another 1-2 minutes until wilted. Season the dish with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the flavors as needed.
- Serve: Plate the prepared tortellini and sausage mixture. Garnish with freshly grated parmesan cheese if desired, and serve hot for a comforting meal.
Notes
- Use sweet or spicy Italian sausage depending on your flavor preference.
- Make sure tortellini is fully submerged in the liquid to ensure even cooking.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or omit it and increase chicken broth slightly.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
- Add crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
