Creamy Italian Sausage Tortellini – A Comfort Food Favorite

If you’re looking for a quick and satisfying dinner that feels like restaurant-quality comfort food, this Creamy Italian Sausage Tortellini is a winner. Tender cheese-filled tortellini is simmered in a luscious cream sauce with savory Italian sausage, garlic, and herbs. It’s rich, hearty, and full of flavor — perfect for a cozy night in.

The best part? It all comes together in one pan in about 25 minutes, making it a great weeknight meal that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.

🥘 Creamy Italian Sausage Tortellini Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casing removed)

• 1 tbsp olive oil (if needed)

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juices)

• 1 cup chicken broth

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

• 1 (20 oz) package cheese tortellini (fresh or refrigerated)

• 2 cups fresh spinach (or kale)

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• Salt & black pepper, to taste

• Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Sausage

   • Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking into crumbles. Remove excess grease if necessary.

2. Build the Sauce Base

   • Add onion and garlic to the skillet, cooking until softened and fragrant.

   • Stir in diced tomatoes, chicken broth, heavy cream, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a gentle simmer.

3. Add the Tortellini

   • Stir in tortellini and simmer uncovered for 6–8 minutes, until pasta is tender and sauce thickens.

4. Finish with Greens & Cheese

   • Add spinach and cook until wilted.

   • Stir in Parmesan, then season with salt and black pepper to taste.

5. Serve & Enjoy

   • Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve hot with crusty bread.

Tips for Success

• Use refrigerated tortellini for the best texture and quick cooking.

• For a lighter option, swap half the cream for milk or half-and-half.

• Adjust spice level by choosing mild or hot Italian sausage.

• Leftovers reheat beautifully — just add a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.

Variations

• Tomato Cream Style: Add extra tomato paste for a bolder tomato flavor.

• Mushroom Twist: Sauté mushrooms with the sausage for added depth.

• Cajun Version: Swap Italian seasoning for Cajun spice blend.

• Three-Cheese Dream: Stir in ricotta and mozzarella for extra cheesiness.