Creamy Italian Sausage Tortellini Recipe
If you are craving a comforting, rich, and satisfying pasta dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, this Creamy Italian Sausage Tortellini Recipe is exactly what you need. Featuring tender cheese tortellini enveloped in a luscious blend of Alfredo and marinara sauces with perfectly seasoned Italian sausage, this dish brings together bold flavors and creamy textures in the most delightful way. It’s a go-to recipe that’s fast, easy, and absolutely crowd-pleasing, ideal for busy weeknights or casual weekend dinners with friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is key to making this dish as delicious and authentic as it can be. Each item is thoughtfully chosen to build layers of flavor, from the hearty sausage to the creamy sauces that give this recipe its signature richness.
- Italian sausage: Use sweet or spicy sausage depending on your preference for a juicy, flavorful protein base.
- Chopped onion: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth when sautéed with the sausage.
- Minced garlic: Brings aromatics that enhance every bite with a classic Italian presence.
- Rao’s Alfredo sauce (15 oz): This creamy sauce gives the dish its silky texture and indulgent flavor.
- Rao’s Marinara sauce (15 oz): Offers a bright and tangy contrast that balances the creaminess beautifully.
- Italian seasoning (1 tsp): A fragrant herb blend that ties the flavors together effortlessly.
- Red pepper flakes (1/4 tsp): Just enough to give a gentle kick without overpowering the dish.
- Frozen cheese tortellini (19 oz): The star ingredient that holds all the goodness inside a tender pasta pocket.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 cup): Melts to a gooey, golden topping that makes this recipe irresistible.
- Parsley flakes: For a fresh, vibrant sprinkle of color and flavor to finish off the dish.
How to Make Creamy Italian Sausage Tortellini Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Sausage and Onion
Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat and add your Italian sausage along with the chopped onion. Cook this mixture, breaking the sausage apart as it browns and the onion softens. This step is crucial because it develops a savory, meaty base while the onions add their sweetness. Once browned, drain any excess grease to keep the dish from becoming too oily.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
Lower the heat to medium-low and add minced garlic to the skillet, stirring it gently until fragrant. Next, pour in both the Alfredo and marinara sauces, combining them with Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes. This blend of creamy and tangy sauces creates a luscious, flavorful coating for the tortellini that makes this Creamy Italian Sausage Tortellini Recipe so special.
Step 3: Add Tortellini
Now stir in the frozen cheese tortellini, making sure each piece is thoroughly coated with the rich sauce. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the dish simmer for 8 to 10 minutes. This allows the tortellini to cook through and absorb those satisfying flavors, becoming tender and irresistibly juicy.
Step 4: Melt the Cheese
Sprinkle a generous cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of your skillet creation. Then, transfer the pan to a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 3 to 5 minutes until the cheese melts into a bubbling, golden blanket. If you prefer not to use the oven, simply keep the skillet covered on low heat until the mozzarella becomes perfectly melted.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Finish your dish by removing it from heat and sprinkling dried parsley flakes over the top for a pop of color and fresh herbal notes. Serve it piping hot in large bowls to delight everyone at your table with this creamy, cheesy, and comforting masterpiece.
How to Serve Creamy Italian Sausage Tortellini Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes can elevate your Creamy Italian Sausage Tortellini Recipe to restaurant-quality presentation. Freshly chopped basil or more parsley flakes provide a lovely green contrast. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan will introduce additional layers of flavor and richness.
Side Dishes
To complement the richness of the tortellini, consider pairing it with a crisp green salad featuring lemon vinaigrette. Garlic bread or a simple focaccia can also be fantastic companions, perfect for soaking up every last bit of that creamy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a family-style dinner, serve the entire skillet at the table, allowing everyone to scoop out their portions. Alternatively, plate individual servings with a twist of freshly cracked black pepper and a small cluster of cherry tomatoes roasted with garlic and herbs for a colorful appearance. It also makes a great filling for a cozy potluck dish that wows without stress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer your leftovers to an airtight container and keep them refrigerated for up to three days. The flavors meld even more beautifully after resting, making your next meal just as delightful.
Freezing
This Creamy Italian Sausage Tortellini Recipe freezes well. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags, making sure to remove as much air as possible. Freeze for up to two months, so you always have a comforting meal ready to reheat.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm your pasta on the stovetop over medium-low heat with a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. Cover the pan and stir occasionally until heated through. You can also use the microwave in short increments, stirring between cycles to evenly warm the dish.
FAQs
Can I use turkey or chicken sausage instead of Italian sausage?
Absolutely! Using turkey or chicken sausage is a great way to lighten the dish while still keeping it flavorful. Just ensure the seasoning matches well with Italian herbs to maintain the classic taste.
Is there a vegetarian version of this Creamy Italian Sausage Tortellini Recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the Italian sausage with plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms for a similar texture and depth of flavor, keeping the creamy sauce intact for richness.
Can I make this recipe without an oven?
Definitely. After melting the cheese on top, simply cover the skillet and keep it on low heat until the cheese is melted and bubbly. It’s a convenient option for those without easy oven access.
What type of tortellini works best for this recipe?
Cheese tortellini is traditional and blends deliciously with the creamy sauce, but you can experiment with meat or spinach-filled tortellini to change things up a bit.
How spicy is this dish?
The red pepper flakes provide a gentle warmth that enhances flavor without overwhelming heat. You can adjust the amount to suit your personal taste or omit them for a milder meal.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Creamy Italian Sausage Tortellini Recipe enough if you’re looking for a quick, comforting dinner that feels indulgent without fuss. It’s a fantastic balance of creamy sauce, savory sausage, and tender pasta that’s destined to become a cherished favorite in your recipe rotation. Grab your skillet and dive into a bowl of pure Italian-inspired comfort — you won’t regret it!
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Creamy Italian Sausage Tortellini Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Creamy Italian Sausage Tortellini recipe combines savory Italian sausage, tender cheese tortellini, and a rich blend of Alfredo and marinara sauces. Finished with melted mozzarella and a sprinkle of parsley, it’s a quick and comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Sausage and Vegetables
- 1 lb Italian sausage
- 1 chopped onion
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
Sauces and Seasonings
- 15 oz jar Rao’s Alfredo sauce
- 15 oz Rao’s Marinara sauce
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
Main Pasta
- 19 oz frozen cheese tortellini
Toppings
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Parsley flakes, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the sausage and onion: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage and chopped onion, cooking until the sausage is browned and the onion is softened. Drain any excess grease from the skillet to prevent the dish from being too oily.
- Prepare the sauce: Lower the heat to medium-low. Stir in the minced garlic, Alfredo sauce, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Mix thoroughly to combine all flavors evenly.
- Add tortellini: Add the frozen cheese tortellini to the skillet, stirring to coat them evenly with the sauce. Cover with a lid and let simmer for 8-10 minutes, or until the tortellini are tender and fully heated through.
- Melt the cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the tortellini and sauce. Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) and bake for 3-5 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Alternatively, keep the skillet covered on the stove over low heat until the cheese melts fully.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the skillet from heat, sprinkle with dried parsley flakes, and serve the dish hot for a cozy, flavorful meal.
Notes
- Using Rao’s Alfredo and Marinara sauces enhances the rich, authentic flavor, but feel free to use your favorite brands.
- Draining excess grease after cooking the sausage is important to maintain the richness without greasiness.
- If you don’t have oven safe skillet, melt the cheese on the stove top over low heat carefully.
- For a spicier dish, increase the red pepper flakes to taste.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stove or microwave.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop and Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
