This creamy tortellini dish is a cozy hug in a bowl! With tasty sausage, fresh spinach, and juicy tomatoes, it’s both hearty and comforting.
I love how quickly it comes together—just boil the tortellini, toss in the other ingredients, and you’re set! Perfect for those busy nights when you want something yummy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fresh Cheese Tortellini: This is the star of the dish! You could use frozen tortellini if fresh isn’t available. Just adjust the cooking time as per the package directions.
Italian Sausage: I love using mild sausage, but if you prefer a kick, feel free to choose spicy sausage! Ground turkey or chicken sausage makes for a leaner option.
Cherry or Grape Tomatoes: These add sweetness and juiciness. If you can’t find them, diced canned tomatoes work too! Just drain them before adding to avoid excess moisture.
Fresh Spinach: Baby spinach is tender and cooks quickly. Kale or Swiss chard can also be used, but will take a bit longer to soften.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, substitute with half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free option. Just remember it may alter the flavor slightly.
What’s the Best Way to Cook the Sausage Without Drying It Out?
Cooking sausage properly enhances its flavor and keeps it juicy. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a preheated skillet on medium heat; it helps brown the meat without drying it out.
- Break the sausage into smaller pieces as it cooks to ensure even cooking and browning.
- Stir frequently to prevent it from sticking and burning. Cooking it around 6-8 minutes should be enough until it’s fully browned.
Keep an eye on the color; you want a nice golden brown. A little bit of caramelization adds extra flavor!
How to Make Creamy Tortellini with Sausage, Spinach & Tomatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450 g) fresh cheese tortellini
- 1 lb (450 g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pint (about 2 cups) cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 4 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or white wine (optional, for thinning sauce)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy, delicious dish will take about 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook, for a total of about 30 minutes from start to finish. That’s pretty quick for a comforting meal that packs so much flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Tortellini:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the fresh cheese tortellini and cook according to the package instructions until they are al dente (firm to the bite). Once done, drain the tortellini and set them aside for later.
2. Brown the Sausage:
While the tortellini is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage, using a spoon to break it into smaller pieces. Cook until the sausage is browned and cooked through, which should take about 6-8 minutes. This adds a lovely deep flavor!
3. Add Garlic and Tomatoes:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be sure to stir often so the garlic doesn’t burn. Then, add the halved tomatoes and sauté them for 3-4 minutes, or until they start to soften and release some juice.
4. Incorporate Spinach:
Now, add the fresh baby spinach to your skillet and cook for about 2 minutes, or until just wilted. This will bring that lovely green color and extra nutrition to your dish!
5. Make It Creamy:
Pour in the heavy cream and give it a good stir. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for about 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly. If you find the sauce is too thick, feel free to add chicken broth or white wine gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
6. Add Cheese:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and continue to stir until it has melted completely into the sauce. Season to your preference with salt, black pepper, and add red pepper flakes for a bit of kick if you like!
7. Combine with Tortellini:
Finally, gently fold the cooked tortellini into the creamy sauce, tossing everything together until the tortellini is well coated and mixed throughout.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from heat. Serve your creamy tortellini warm, garnished with freshly chopped basil or parsley for a pop of color and flavor!
Enjoy your creamy, comforting tortellini with sausage, spinach, and tomatoes! It’s sure to be a hit at the dinner table!
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! If using frozen tortellini, simply cook it according to the package instructions. Keep in mind that frozen varieties may take a little longer to cook, so just adjust your timing accordingly.
How Can I Make This Dish Lighter?
If you’re looking to make this dish lighter, consider using half-and-half or a lower-fat cream substitute instead of heavy cream. You could also opt for turkey or chicken sausage instead of pork sausage to reduce the fat content.
What Can I Use Instead of Italian Sausage?
If you don’t have Italian sausage, ground beef, turkey, or chicken are great alternatives! Just season them with Italian herbs like oregano and basil to mimic the flavors. Veggie sausage is also an excellent choice for a meat-free version!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure it heats evenly.
