Sausage Tortellini Alfredo Recipe

If you’re searching for a comfort food classic that absolutely wows on busy weeknights or special occasions alike, this Sausage Tortellini Alfredo Recipe is about to become your new favorite. It’s rich, creamy, and loaded with savory Italian sausage, pillowy cheese tortellini, and a luscious, garlicky Alfredo sauce. Everything comes together in just 30 minutes, but the flavors taste like you’ve been simmering all day. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or treating yourself, this Sausage Tortellini Alfredo Recipe is pure pasta bliss in every bite.

Sausage Tortellini Alfredo Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredient list for this Sausage Tortellini Alfredo Recipe is refreshingly short, but every single item plays an important role. With just a handful of kitchen staples and a couple of bold extras, you’ll create a dish that’s creamy, hearty, and irresistibly satisfying.

  • Olive oil: A tablespoon to start everything off right by helping the sausage brown beautifully and adding a subtle fruity note.
  • Italian sausage: One pound, mild or spicy, gives the dish its hearty, robust flavor—feel free to pick your favorite variety.
  • Garlic: Two cloves, minced, transform the sauce with their aromatic, savory punch.
  • Refrigerated cheese tortellini: A 20-ounce package means extra-cheesy, soft bites in every forkful—fresh is best for speed and taste.
  • Heavy cream: One and a half cups for that signature Alfredo richness and silky texture.
  • Parmesan cheese: A half-cup, freshly grated, melts right in and adds nutty, salty depth.
  • Italian seasoning: Just half a teaspoon brings a blend of herbs to round out the sauce and echo the sausage’s spice.
  • Salt and black pepper: Season to your liking to balance out the creaminess and intensify the flavors.
  • Baby spinach (optional): Two cups fold in beautifully at the end, adding a pop of color and a healthy twist.
  • Chopped parsley or extra Parmesan: For garnish, these bring fresh color and extra cheesy appeal to the finished dish.

How to Make Sausage Tortellini Alfredo Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the Italian sausage—make sure to break it up with a spoon as it cooks. This step is all about building flavor: the sausage should be sizzling and browned after about 5 to 7 minutes, infusing the oil and your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. This is where your Sausage Tortellini Alfredo Recipe gets its savory backbone!

Step 2: Add the Garlic

Once the sausage is perfectly browned, stir in the minced garlic. Let it sauté for just a minute—enough for the garlic to get fragrant without burning. You’ll instantly notice the aroma deepen, lending the sauce a mouthwatering, savory edge that makes this dish so memorable.

Step 3: Cook the Tortellini

While the sausage and garlic are working their magic, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to the package instructions, usually just a few minutes for that perfect tender bite. Drain and set aside—don’t forget to give them a gentle toss so they don’t stick together.

Step 4: Make the Alfredo Sauce

Reduce the skillet heat to medium, then pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Stir everything together and let it simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes. The sauce will thicken just enough to coat the back of a spoon, turning golden and creamy. This is the luscious heart of your Sausage Tortellini Alfredo Recipe.

Step 5: Combine and Finish

Add the drained tortellini directly to the skillet, tossing to coat every piece in the Alfredo sauce. If you’re using baby spinach, stir it in now—it only takes a minute or two to wilt and turns the dish into something extra special. Season with salt and black pepper to taste, then get ready for the final flourish.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Transfer your Sausage Tortellini Alfredo Recipe to bowls or a serving platter and finish with a generous shower of chopped parsley or extra Parmesan cheese. Serve hot and enjoy the happy, hungry faces around your table!

How to Serve Sausage Tortellini Alfredo Recipe

Sausage Tortellini Alfredo Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or a handful of extra Parmesan goes a long way in adding a bright, fresh finish to this creamy dish. You can also try a dusting of cracked black pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. These little touches make the Sausage Tortellini Alfredo Recipe look restaurant-worthy every time.

Side Dishes

Pair your Sausage Tortellini Alfredo Recipe with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette to balance all that luscious creaminess. Garlic bread, focaccia, or even simple steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus make classic (and delicious) companions for mopping up every last drop of sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For an elevated touch, serve the pasta in shallow bowls with extra garnishes piled high. If you’re hosting, try spooning the Sausage Tortellini Alfredo Recipe into individual ramekins or over a bed of sautéed greens for a modern twist. You can also top with toasted pine nuts or a drizzle of truffle oil for an extra-special finish!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to meld, making each reheated bowl just as satisfying as the first time around—if you’re lucky enough to have any left!

Freezing

If you want to freeze your Sausage Tortellini Alfredo Recipe, let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. The cream sauce may separate a bit upon thawing, but a good stir while reheating usually brings it right back together. Freeze for up to two months for best quality.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce if needed. Avoid microwaving for too long, as it can dry out the pasta—just heat until everything is hot and creamy again.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Main Course

Absolutely! You can substitute with chicken, turkey, or even plant-based sausage for a lighter or vegetarian twist. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning if needed, as different sausages offer distinct flavors.

Is it okay to use frozen tortellini instead of refrigerated?

Yes, frozen tortellini works in this Sausage Tortellini Alfredo Recipe—just cook according to package instructions and proceed as usual. The key is not to overcook the pasta, so you maintain that lovely, tender bite.

How can I add more veggies?

Feel free to toss in mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or even roasted red peppers along with the spinach. These extras add color, texture, and even more flavor, making the dish heartier and even more nourishing.

Can I make the Alfredo sauce lighter?

You can swap heavy cream for half-and-half or a mixture of milk and a bit of cream cheese. The sauce will be a little less rich, but still creamy and satisfying—just keep an eye on the consistency as it simmers.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

For best results, reheat leftovers in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk or cream. This keeps the sauce silky and prevents the tortellini from drying out. Stir gently until everything is warmed through.

Final Thoughts

This Sausage Tortellini Alfredo Recipe is pure comfort in a bowl, and I promise it’s as easy to make as it is to love. Whether you whip it up for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, it’s sure to become a cherished favorite. Give it a try—you’ll be amazed how fast it disappears!

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Sausage Tortellini Alfredo Recipe

Sausage Tortellini Alfredo Recipe


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4.8 from 23 reviews

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

Description

This Sausage Tortellini Alfredo recipe features tender Italian sausage and cheese tortellini smothered in a rich and creamy homemade Alfredo sauce. Enhanced with garlic, Parmesan, and optional baby spinach, this dish is perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner that’s both flavorful and satisfying.


Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Protein

  • 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)

Produce

  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 2 cups baby spinach (optional)
  • Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

Dairy

  • 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Pantry

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 (20 oz) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
  • 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and black pepper to taste


Instructions

  1. Cook the sausage: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook for 5–7 minutes until fully browned and cooked through.
  2. Sauté garlic: Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  3. Cook tortellini: Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the refrigerated cheese tortellini according to package instructions, usually 3–5 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  4. Prepare Alfredo sauce: Reduce the heat under the skillet to medium. Stir in heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Simmer the sauce for 2–3 minutes, stirring often, until it thickens slightly.
  5. Combine tortellini and sauce: Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce and sausage. Toss gently to coat all the pasta evenly in the sauce.
  6. Add spinach: If using baby spinach, stir it into the skillet and cook for 1–2 minutes until wilted.
  7. Season and garnish: Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley or extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve the dish hot and enjoy!

Notes

  • You can substitute chicken sausage or turkey sausage for a leaner version.
  • Add mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce for extra flavor and texture.
  • Leftovers reheat well and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 640
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 780mg
  • Fat: 41g
  • Saturated Fat: 20g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 18g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 115mg

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