One Pan Tortellini with Sausage

Name: One Pan Tortellini with Sausage
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4.0
Ingredients: 12 oz cheese tortellini; 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup spinach, fresh; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

This One Pan Tortellini with Sausage is a hearty and flavorful dish that brings together succulent sausage, tender tortellini, and vibrant vegetables all cooked in one easy pan. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe combines creamy and savory elements that will delight the entire family, making it a go-to for quick dinners. Enjoy a comforting meal with minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.

Created by

Poppy Walsh

Last updated on 2025-12-09T15:26:48.929Z

This dish is perfect for those evenings when you want something comforting and filling but don't have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen.

The Perfect Weeknight Meal

Searching for a dinner that pleases everyone while being simple to prepare? Look no further than this One Pan Tortellini with Sausage. This dish brings together savory Italian sausage with delicious tortellini and vibrant veggies, all cooked in one pan. It's the ideal recipe to whip up after a long day, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying dinner with your loved ones.

Not only is this meal quick to prepare, but it's also packed with nutrition. The addition of fresh spinach and cherry tomatoes lends a healthy dose of vitamins and minerals, while the creamy sauce provides a comforting element. This dish is perfect for health-conscious families who still want to enjoy rich, flavorful meals.

Variations and Customizations

One of the best things about this One Pan Tortellini with Sausage recipe is its versatility. You can easily swap out the sausage for turkey or chicken sausage to make it lighter, or even go vegetarian by replacing the sausage with some hearty mushrooms or a plant-based protein. This flexibility allows you to tailor the dish to your personal preferences or dietary restrictions.

Feel free to experiment with different vegetables as well. Zucchini, bell peppers, or even kale can add a delicious twist to this classic recipe. Seasonings and spices can also be adjusted based on your taste. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can bring some heat, while fresh herbs like thyme or oregano can enhance the dish's aroma and flavor.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This One Pan Tortellini with Sausage is perfect for meal prep, as it stores well for leftovers. Simply transfer any uneaten portions to an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to three days. The flavors continue to meld together, making the leftovers surprisingly delicious and even more comforting the next day.

When you're ready to reheat, simply place the dish on the stovetop over medium heat or microwave it in individual portions. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of broth or cream to loosen it up. This ensures that your meal retains its creamy texture while ensuring each bite is just as delightful as when it was first cooked.

Ingredients

For the Main Dish

12 oz cheese tortellini
1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup spinach, fresh
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking for a smoother experience.

Instructions

Cook the Sausage

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

Add the Vegetables

Add the cherry tomatoes and spinach to the skillet, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach is wilted.

Combine with Tortellini

Stir in the tortellini and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer and let cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the tortellini is cooked through.

Finish with Cheese

Remove from heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Garnish with fresh basil and serve immediately.

This one-pan meal makes for easy cleanup!

Why Tortellini?

Tortellini provides a delightful texture and flavor to any dish, making it a popular choice in Italian cuisine. These small pasta pockets are often filled with a mixture of cheese, meats, or vegetables, adding depth to your meal. In this recipe, cheese tortellini complements the savory sausage beautifully, creating a satisfying bite that everyone will love.

Furthermore, tortellini cooks quickly, making it ideal for weeknight dinners. Whether you opt for fresh or frozen, you'll find that it pairs wonderfully with a creamy sauce, absorbing flavors that enhance the overall dish.

The Benefits of One-Pan Meals

One-pan meals have gained popularity for good reason. They simplify the cooking process and significantly reduce cleanup time. With everything cooked in a single skillet, you can create a delicious dinner without the hassle of multiple pots and pans cluttering your kitchen. This means more time to relax and enjoy your meal.

Additionally, one-pan meals allow for the mingling of flavors, resulting in dishes that feel more cohesive. As the ingredients cook together, they create a harmonious blend that's both delicious and appealing. This One Pan Tortellini with Sausage is a prime example of how effective this cooking method can be.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen tortellini?

Yes, frozen tortellini works great! Just follow the cooking instructions on the package.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

You can use gluten-free tortellini if you need a gluten-free option.