Creamy Sausage Tortellini (Easy One-Pan Dinner)

This Creamy Sausage Tortellini is a rich, comforting dinner that comes together fast in just one pan. Juicy sausage, tender cheese tortellini, and a creamy garlic sauce make this an easy weeknight meal the whole family will love.

🧄 Ingredients

• 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)

• 1 (20 oz) package refrigerated cheese tortellini

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 cups heavy cream

• 1 cup chicken broth

• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• Salt & black pepper, to taste

• Optional: fresh parsley for garnish

🍳 Instructions

1. Brown the sausage
   In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned and fully cooked. Break it into crumbles as it cooks. Drain excess grease if needed.

2. Add butter and garlic
   Reduce heat slightly and add butter to the skillet. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

3. Create the sauce
   Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer.

4. Add tortellini
   Stir in the tortellini and Italian seasoning. Cover and simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tortellini is tender.

5. Finish with cheese
   Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese and stir until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Serve
   Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve warm.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

• Serve with garlic bread or a side salad

• Add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for variation

• Great leftover reheated the next day

⭐ Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pan dinner

• Ready in under 30 minutes

• Creamy, filling, and family-friendly

• Perfect for busy weeknights

🧰 Tools You’ll Need

• Large skillet or sauté pan (12-inch works best)

• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula (for stirring sausage and sauce)

• Chef’s knife (to slice sausage and prep ingredients)

• Cutting board

• Measuring cups

• Measuring spoons

• Cheese grater (for fresh Parmesan — converts well)

FAQs

Can I use spicy sausage?

Yes, spicy sausage adds a nice kick to the dish.

Can I freeze leftovers?

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

How do I prevent tortellini from sticking?

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.

You can use half-and-half or whole milk with a tablespoon of flour to thicken the sauce.

Stir gently and often while cooking to keep tortellini separate.

Yes, spinach or mushrooms work well added near the end.