Creamy Sausage and Tortellini Skillet

 

Introduction:

If you’re looking for a comforting, flavorful, and easy-to-make dinner, look no further than this Creamy Sausage and Tortellini Skillet.

This dish combines tender tortellini, savory sausage, and a rich, creamy sauce all in one pan, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

The blend of Italian spices, melted cheese, and hearty ingredients will have everyone coming back for seconds.

This recipe is versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite vegetables or herbs.

It’s also a great option for meal prep, as it reheats beautifully and tastes just as good the next day. Let’s dive into how you can make this mouthwatering dish at home.

Creamy Sausage and Tortellini Skillet: A Delicious One-Pan Meal

Ingredients:

• 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, depending on your preference)
• 1 package (about 18 oz) refrigerated or frozen cheese tortellini
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

Cook the Sausage:

• Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the sausage to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
• Cook the sausage until it is browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside on a plate, leaving some of the rendered fat in the skillet.

Sauté the Vegetables:

• In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent.
• Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.

Create the Sauce:

• Pour the heavy cream and chicken broth into the skillet, stirring to combine with the onion and garlic. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
• Stir in the drained diced tomatoes, dried basil, oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Season the sauce with salt and black pepper to taste.
• Allow the sauce to simmer for about 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.

Add the Tortellini and Sausage:

• Add the tortellini and cooked sausage back into the skillet, stirring to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
• If you’re using refrigerated tortellini, cook them directly in the sauce according to the package instructions, typically about 5-7 minutes. If you’re using frozen tortellini, you may need to cook them for a few minutes longer.

Finish with Cheese:

• Once the tortellini are cooked and tender, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the skillet.
• Reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet, allowing the cheese to melt into the sauce, creating a gooey, cheesy topping.

Serve and Enjoy:

• Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired.
• Serve the Creamy Sausage and Tortellini Skillet hot, with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad to round out the meal.

Storage:

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.

Conclusion:

This Creamy Sausage and Tortellini Skillet is a one-pan wonder that delivers big on flavor with minimal effort.

The combination of savory sausage, tender tortellini, and a rich, creamy sauce makes this dish incredibly satisfying and perfect for a comforting meal at home.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables, such as spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers, to make it even heartier.

The melty cheese on top adds a decadent finish that’s sure to please both kids and adults alike.

Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or preparing a dish to impress guests, this recipe is sure to become a go-to in your kitchen.

Enjoy the delicious, comforting flavors of this Creamy Sausage and Tortellini Skillet, and savor every bite!