If you’re searching for the ultimate comfort food with bold flavor and irresistible creaminess, this Creamy Italian Sausage Tortellini Recipe instantly delivers. Tender cheese-filled tortellini soak up a rich, velvety sauce mingled with savory sausage, aromatic garlic, juicy tomatoes, and a hint of spinach. This one-pan wonder is perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers, promising a hearty meal that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat.

Creamy Italian Sausage Tortellini Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This dish is a beautiful marriage of simple pantry staples and fresh ingredients. Each item plays a crucial role—whether it’s for infusing deep flavor, adding creamy texture, or lending a vibrant pop of color.

Olive oil: Adds a fragrant, savory base for browning the sausage and infusing flavor from the start.
Italian sausage: The star of the dish—choose mild or spicy depending on your preference; it brings heartiness and rich flavor.
Garlic: Freshly minced for that signature Italian aroma and a subtle depth to the sauce.
Cheese tortellini: Use refrigerated for convenience—each bite bursts with creamy, cheesy goodness.
Low-sodium chicken broth: Balances out the richness and provides just the right amount of savory liquid for the sauce.
Heavy cream: For that luxurious, silky texture that makes every forkful feel special.
Diced tomatoes: Brightens up the whole dish with juicy sweetness; draining keeps the sauce nice and thick.
Italian seasoning: A harmonious blend of herbs that ties all the classic flavors together.
Salt: Brings out the best in every ingredient—taste as you go!
Black pepper: A touch for gentle heat and aroma; go freshly cracked for a flavor boost.
Fresh spinach: Wilts beautifully into the sauce, bringing color and some leafy green goodness.
Grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce for nutty, salty depth—plus extra on top is always a good idea.
Red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like just a hint of spicy warmth at the end.

How to Make Creamy Italian Sausage Tortellini Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add your Italian sausage (with casings removed) and cook it, breaking it up with a spoon, for 6 to 8 minutes until it’s beautifully browned and cooked through. The browning brings fantastic flavor, so don’t rush this stage—it sets the tone for the rest of your Creamy Italian Sausage Tortellini Recipe.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

Add the minced garlic directly to the sausage and let it sizzle for about 30 seconds. You’ll know it’s ready once the kitchen smells absolutely heavenly—just be careful not to let the garlic burn.

Step 3: Simmer Everything Together

Next, stir in the cheese tortellini, chicken broth, heavy cream, drained diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Gently mix to combine all the ingredients, then bring everything to a simmer. Cover the skillet and let it cook for 7 to 9 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tortellini are tender and the sauce has thickened slightly. Watching it all come together is always such a satisfying moment!

Step 4: Finish with Spinach and Parmesan

Uncover the pan and stir in the fresh spinach and grated Parmesan cheese. The spinach will wilt in just a minute or two, and the Parmesan will melt perfectly into the sauce, making your Creamy Italian Sausage Tortellini Recipe extra luscious. Give it a final taste and season as needed.

Step 5: Serve and Savor

Dish up the tortellini while it’s hot, with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you’re in the mood for a little heat. This is one of those meals that will have everyone gathering at the table in record time.

How to Serve Creamy Italian Sausage Tortellini Recipe

Garnishes

A generous dusting of grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley take the Creamy Italian Sausage Tortellini Recipe over the top. For those who love a touch of spice, a pinch of red pepper flakes adds just the right kick. You can even add a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil for a glossy, decadent finish.

Side Dishes

This dish is pretty complete on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a crisp, simple green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette. A basket of warm, crusty bread or garlic knots is perfect for mopping up any extra sauce—trust me, you won’t want to leave a drop behind! Roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus can round out the meal and add a pop of color.

Creative Ways to Present

For an extra special touch, try serving the Creamy Italian Sausage Tortellini Recipe in individual gratin dishes or shallow pasta bowls. You can top with a broiled layer of mozzarella for a “baked tortellini” effect, or toss in some roasted mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for a twist. It’s also delightful spooned over a bed of wilted baby greens for a lighter presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Creamy Italian Sausage Tortellini Recipe will keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The tortellini may soak up a bit more sauce as it sits, but the flavor only gets richer overnight—just give it a good stir before serving.

Freezing

If you want to freeze any extra, let the dish cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. Note that the cream sauce may separate slightly upon thawing, but the taste will still be delicious. For best results, freeze just the sauce and sausage mixture, then add freshly cooked tortellini and spinach after reheating.

Reheating

Gently reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth as needed to loosen the sauce. Stir frequently and heat until everything is steaming hot. In a pinch, the microwave works too—cover and heat in short intervals, stirring between bursts.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Main Course

Absolutely! Feel free to swap in chicken, turkey, or even a spicy chorizo for a fun variation. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning based on your sausage’s flavor profile.

Will frozen tortellini work?

Yes, frozen tortellini works great in this recipe. You may need to extend the simmering time slightly and add a splash more broth to keep everything perfectly saucy.

Can I make this Creamy Italian Sausage Tortellini Recipe ahead of time?

You can cook the sausage and sauce a day ahead, and just add the tortellini and spinach when you’re ready to serve for the best texture. As with most creamy pasta dishes, freshly cooked is best, but it’s very forgiving!

What vegetables can I substitute for spinach?

Kale and arugula are both fantastic replacements for spinach, bringing their own unique flavor and heartiness. If you love a little sweetness, try stirring in some roasted bell peppers.

Is this Creamy Italian Sausage Tortellini Recipe spicy?

It’s wonderfully savory without being overly spicy. If you like heat, just add extra red pepper flakes or opt for a spicy Italian sausage for a bolder kick.

Final Thoughts

Once you try this Creamy Italian Sausage Tortellini Recipe, it’s bound to become a favorite for its ease, warmth, and guaranteed crowd-pleasing flavor. I hope you enjoy every creamy, cheesy, savory bite—don’t be surprised if it finds its way into your regular dinner rotation!

Creamy Italian Sausage Tortellini Recipe

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4.7 from 16 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the rich and comforting flavors of this Creamy Italian Sausage Tortellini recipe. Perfect for a cozy night in, this dish combines savory Italian sausage, tender cheese tortellini, and a creamy tomato sauce for a satisfying meal that’s sure to please.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound Italian sausage (casings removed)
3 cloves garlic (minced)
1 (20-ounce) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
1 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes (drained)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper

Additional Ingredients:

2 cups fresh spinach
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Optional red pepper flakes for heat

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Instructions

Prepare the Sausage: Heat olive oil in a large skillet. Cook Italian sausage until browned.
Add Ingredients: Stir in garlic, tortellini, broth, cream, tomatoes, seasonings. Simmer until tortellini is tender.
Finish the Dish: Add spinach and Parmesan cheese. Cook until spinach wilts and cheese melts.
Serve: Garnish with more Parmesan and red pepper flakes, if desired.