Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli

why make this recipe

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini Sausage is a delightful dish that brings together rich flavors and comforting textures. The combination of creamy sauce, flavorful sausage, and tender tortellini creates a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Plus, it’s quick and easy to make, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

how to make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini Sausage

Ingredients:

• 1 (20-ounce) package cheese tortellini
• 1 pound Italian sausage, mild or spicy
• 3 cups broccoli florets
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Directions:

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. Continue to cook until the sausage is thoroughly browned and cooked through. Transfer the cooked sausage to a plate and set aside.

2. Reduce the heat to medium in the same skillet. Add the minced garlic and sauté for approximately 1 minute, until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until it is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Season the sauce with 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and the optional 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes.

3. While the sauce is simmering, cook the cheese tortellini in a large pot of salted boiling water according to the package instructions. During the final 2 to 3 minutes of the tortellini’s cooking time, add the broccoli florets to the pot. Once cooked, drain the tortellini and broccoli together.

4. Return the cooked sausage, drained tortellini, and broccoli to the skillet with the prepared cream sauce. Toss all ingredients gently to ensure everything is thoroughly coated in the creamy sauce. Serve immediately, optionally garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and freshly cracked black pepper.

how to serve Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini Sausage

This dish can be served hot right after cooking. It pairs well with a side salad or some crusty garlic bread. For an extra touch, sprinkle more Parmesan cheese or add some fresh herbs like parsley on top before serving.

how to store Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini Sausage

You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to keep the sauce creamy.

tips to make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini Sausage

• Use fresh tortellini for the best flavor and texture.
• If you like more spice, try adding more red pepper flakes or using spicy Italian sausage.
• For a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative.

variation

You can customize this dish by adding other vegetables such as spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms. Additionally, for a vegetarian option, try swapping the sausage for a plant-based or veggie sausage.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the tortellini and broccoli ahead of time. Just combine everything right before serving to ensure the best texture.

Can I use frozen tortellini?

Absolutely! Just follow the package instructions for cooking frozen tortellini, and then continue with the recipe as usual.

What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?

You can use other hard cheeses such as Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano if you don’t have Parmesan cheese on hand.

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini Sausage

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A rich and comforting dish featuring creamy sauce, flavorful sausage, and tender tortellini, perfect for busy weeknights.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 (20-ounce) package cheese tortellini
• 1 pound Italian sausage, mild or spicy
• 3 cups broccoli florets
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks until browned and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
2. Reduce heat to medium, add minced garlic, and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
3. Cook the cheese tortellini in salted boiling water according to package instructions. During the last 2-3 minutes, add the broccoli florets to the pot. Drain tortellini and broccoli.
4. Return the sausage, drained tortellini, and broccoli to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat everything in the creamy sauce. Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan and black pepper if desired.

Notes

This dish pairs well with side salad or garlic bread. For leftovers, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: creamy tortellini, sausage recipe, garlic Parmesan, Italian dinner, quick meal