Easy Italian Sausage Tortellini
Highlighted under: Cozy Hearth Meals | Soul-Warming
This Easy Italian Sausage Tortellini is a delicious and hearty dish that's perfect for busy weeknight dinners.
This recipe brings the rich flavors of Italy right to your dining table. With tender tortellini and savory sausage, it's a dish that will impress your family and friends.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Savory Italian sausage adds a burst of flavor
- Tender tortellini cooked to perfection
- Quick and easy to make for busy nights
A Hearty Meal in Minutes
In today's fast-paced world, finding time to prepare a wholesome meal can be challenging. This Easy Italian Sausage Tortellini recipe is designed for busy weeknight dinners without sacrificing flavor or nutrition. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready on the table in under 30 minutes. It's perfect for families or anyone looking for a quick yet satisfying dish.
The combination of savory Italian sausage and creamy marinara sauce creates a rich flavor profile that pairs perfectly with tender tortellini. This dish not only fills you up but also warms your soul, making it a go-to recipe for cooler evenings. With its comforting textures and delicious taste, everyone at the dinner table is sure to enjoy it.
Customize Your Tortellini Dish
One of the best aspects of this Easy Italian Sausage Tortellini is its versatility. Feel free to customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand or your family's preferences. Want to add more veggies? Incorporate bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition. You can also switch up the type of cheese; try mozzarella for a gooey texture or add a dash of red pepper flakes for some heat.
If you prefer a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with a lighter option like half-and-half or even a dairy-free alternative. The dish can also easily be made gluten-free by using gluten-free tortellini. These adjustments allow you to make this recipe fit your dietary needs while still delivering a delicious meal.
Perfect Pairings
To complement your Easy Italian Sausage Tortellini, consider serving it with a fresh side salad. A simple mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette can brighten up the meal and add a refreshing crunch. Garlic bread is another fantastic pairing, perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce and adding that extra touch of comfort to your dinner.
For drinks, a glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Sangiovese, pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of the dish. If you're looking for a non-alcoholic option, try sparkling water with a splash of lemon to cleanse your palate between bites. These pairings will elevate your meal and create a delightful dining experience.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
- 2 cups tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup spinach
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Gather all these ingredients to create a delicious meal.
Instructions
Cook the Sausage
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
Add Marinara and Cream
Stir in the marinara sauce and heavy cream. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes.
Cook the Tortellini
Meanwhile, cook the tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and add to the skillet.
Add Spinach and Cheese
Add the spinach and Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir until the spinach wilts and the cheese melts, about 2-3 minutes.
Season and Serve
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy!
Enjoy your delicious meal!
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers from your Easy Italian Sausage Tortellini, you're in luck! This dish stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply place it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. When you're ready to enjoy it again, reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce if needed.
For longer storage, consider freezing the dish. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat thoroughly before serving.
Nutritional Benefits
This Easy Italian Sausage Tortellini is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. Italian sausage provides a good source of protein, essential for muscle growth and repair. The addition of spinach contributes vital vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and iron, making this dish a well-rounded meal.
Tortellini, particularly when made from whole wheat, can offer additional fiber, which is beneficial for digestive health. By incorporating a variety of ingredients, this recipe ensures that you and your family are getting a range of nutrients, making it a healthy choice for your dinner table.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes, feel free to substitute with turkey sausage or any other type you prefer.
→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and tortellini separately and combine them when ready to serve.
→ Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Absolutely! You can replace the sausage with a plant-based alternative and use vegetable broth instead of cream.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Easy Italian Sausage Tortellini
This Easy Italian Sausage Tortellini is a delicious and hearty dish that's perfect for busy weeknight dinners.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Cozy Hearth Meals | Soul-Warming
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
- 2 cups tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup spinach
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
Stir in the marinara sauce and heavy cream. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes.
Meanwhile, cook the tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and add to the skillet.
Add the spinach and Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir until the spinach wilts and the cheese melts, about 2-3 minutes.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Total Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 18g