Cheesy Sausage Tortellini Skillet is the perfect comfort food, combining rich, savory sausage with tender tortellini and a creamy, cheesy sauce. This dish is ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, offering a hearty, satisfying option that’s sure to please the whole family.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or hot, depending on preference)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 package (20 ounces) refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Chop and Mince: Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic cloves.
- Cook Tortellini: Cook the tortellini according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
- Heat Olive Oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Cook Sausage: Add the sausage, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic
- Sauté Onion: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion. Sauté until softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Garlic: Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
- Add Tomatoes and Cream: Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Season: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it cook for a few minutes until the sauce starts to thicken.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
- Return Sausage: Add the cooked sausage back to the skillet.
- Add Tortellini: Gently fold in the cooked tortellini, ensuring it is well coated with the sauce.
Step 6: Add Cheese
- Sprinkle Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
- Melt Cheese: Cover the skillet and let it cook over low heat until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 3-5 minutes.
Step 7: Serve
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy the cheesy, creamy goodness.
Cooking Tips:
- Variety of Sausage: Feel free to use your favorite type of sausage, such as spicy Italian, chicken sausage, or turkey sausage, to customize the flavor.
- Vegetables: Add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses such as cheddar, fontina, or gouda for a unique twist.
Variations:
- Spicy Tortellini Skillet: Use hot Italian sausage and add red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
- Vegetarian Version: Omit the sausage and add more vegetables like zucchini, spinach, and mushrooms. Use vegetable broth instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
- Herbed Tortellini: Add fresh or dried herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme to the sauce for an aromatic touch.
FAQs:
Can I use frozen tortellini? Yes, you can use frozen tortellini. Just cook it according to the package instructions before adding it to the skillet.
Can I make this dish ahead of time? While this dish is best served fresh, you can make it ahead and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
Can I freeze leftovers? You can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.
What can I serve with this dish? Cheesy Sausage Tortellini Skillet pairs well with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables.
Is there a dairy-free option? For a dairy-free version, use a plant-based cream and dairy-free cheese substitutes. Adjust the seasoning as needed to achieve the desired flavor.
Nutritional Information:
This dish is rich and hearty, making it a great option for indulgent comfort food. Here’s a rough nutritional breakdown per serving (assuming four servings per recipe):
- Calories: 650
- Fat: 45g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 1200mg
Cheesy Sausage Tortellini Skillet is a quick and easy meal that delivers big on flavor and comfort. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can have a delicious dinner on the table in no time. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this dish is sure to impress. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness of this comforting meal, and don’t hesitate to experiment with different variations to make it your own!
