The first time I made this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli, my kitchen transformed into an aromatic haven. As the garlic sizzled in the pan and the rich scent of melting Parmesan wafted through the air, I knew I had struck culinary gold. This delightful dish not only comes together in just about 30 minutes, but it also balances the creamy heaven of tortellini with the hearty goodness of sausage and vibrant broccoli. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or when you want to impress without the fuss, you’ll find that this recipe is a fantastic way to swap out fast food for something heartfelt and satisfying. Curious to see how easy it is to whip up this creamy masterpiece? Let’s dive in!
Why is this tortellini recipe a must-try?
Creamy Comfort: This dish wraps you in a warm embrace with its indulgent sauce and tender tortellini.
Savory Delight: The combination of Italian sausage and garlic infuses every bite with robust flavor, making it hard to resist.
Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, it's perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave a home-cooked meal.
Nutrient-Packed: With fresh broccoli added, you get a dose of greens that brightens up the dish and keeps it balanced.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or a casual gathering, this creamy garlic Parmesan tortellini is sure to impress everyone at the table. Plus, you can pair it with a simple side like Raspberry Frosting for dessert and make it a complete meal.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini Ingredients
• Get ready to indulge in a simple yet flavorful dish!
For the Tortellini
- 9 ounces cheese tortellini – use fresh or refrigerated for the best texture.
For the Sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – adds richness and depth to the dish.
- 2 tablespoons butter – enhances the creaminess of the sauce.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – gives the recipe that aromatic kick.
- 1 cup heavy cream – creates the luxuriously creamy base.
- 1 cup chicken broth – adds a savory layer to the flavor profile.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese – the star ingredient that makes this creamy garlic Parmesan tortellini shine.
For the Vegetables
- 2 cups broccoli florets – adds nutrition and vibrant color.
For the Sausage
- 8 ounces Italian sausage – provides a savory, meaty texture that complements the creamy sauce.
Seasoning and Garnish
- Salt to taste – essential for bringing all flavors together.
- Pepper to taste – adds a subtle heat to the sauce.
- Red pepper flakes (optional) – for those who enjoy a little spice.
- Fresh parsley (for garnish) – adds a pop of color and freshness.
- Extra Parmesan (for garnish) – because who doesn’t love more cheese?
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini
Step 1: Cook the Sausage
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Remove the casing from the Italian sausage and break it into small pieces. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is browned and cooked through. Once ready, transfer the sausage to a plate and set aside, allowing the flavorful drippings to remain in the skillet.
Step 2: Prepare the Tortellini
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add 9 ounces of fresh or refrigerated cheese tortellini. Cook according to package directions for 3–5 minutes, until tender. Drain the tortellini and set aside, making sure they're ready to rejoin the creamy garlic Parmesan tortellini dish soon.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
Using the same skillet where you cooked the sausage, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add 3 minced cloves of garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. You'll know it's ready when the aroma of garlic fills the air—this will be the base for the rich sauce.
Step 4: Add the Broccoli
Toss in 2 cups of broccoli florets into the skillet with the garlic. Sauté for 3–4 minutes, stirring regularly, until the broccoli is tender yet still bright green. This step adds nutritional value and a lovely crunch to your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini.
Step 5: Make the Sauce
Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth and 1 cup of heavy cream into the skillet with the broccoli and garlic. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Gradually whisk in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until it's melted and smooth. Season generously with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired for an extra kick.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Return the cooked sausage and the tortellini to the skillet, tossing gently to coat them evenly with the creamy sauce. Allow the mixture to simmer for 2–3 minutes, letting the flavors meld together beautifully. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water or broth until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once everything is thoroughly heated and well combined, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and a little extra Parmesan on top. Serve the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini immediately while hot, allowing everyone to savor the rich goodness of this delightful dish.
How to Store and Freeze Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to restore creaminess.
Freezer: To freeze, allow the tortellini to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove, adding a bit of chicken broth or cream to regain that luscious texture.
Reheating: For best results, reheat in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently until heated through. Enjoy every creamy bite!
What to Serve with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini
Indulging in a comforting bowl of creamy goodness invites the perfect symphony of flavors to your dining table.
- Garlic Bread: Provides a crunchy, toasted texture that’s perfect for soaking up that irresistible sauce.
- Caesar Salad: Fresh romaine, crispy croutons, and Caesar dressing add a refreshing crunch to balance the creamy dish.
- Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears drizzled with olive oil bring a vibrant green and earthy flavor complementing your meal.
- Grilled Chicken: Juicy chicken adds protein and a lightly charred flavor that pairs beautifully with the richness of the tortellini.
- Red Wine: A glass of medium-bodied red wine enhances the savory notes, making each bite rich and satisfying.
- Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, a citrusy, refreshing sorbet cleanses the palate and provides a sweet contrast to the creamy dish.
- Sautéed Spinach: Lightly cooked spinach sprinkled with lemon juice adds a touch of brightness and a pop of green.
- Pine Nut Salad: A salad mixed with toasted pine nuts and dried cranberries offers a delightful crunch and a hint of sweetness.
- Italian Meatballs: Savory meatballs add an extra layer of flavor, making the meal heartier and even more enjoyable.
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli are fantastic for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a comforting dish with minimal effort on busy weeknights. You can prepare the sausage and broccoli sauté up to 3 days in advance. Simply cook everything according to the recipe, then let it cool before transferring it to an airtight container and refrigerating. For the tortellini, cook them only when you're ready to serve to prevent them from becoming too soft. When it’s mealtime, reheat the sausage and broccoli mixture in a skillet, add the chicken broth and heavy cream, then incorporate freshly cooked tortellini and Parmesan cheese just before serving. This way, you’ll savor a delicious, creamy dish that feels just as fresh!
Expert Tips for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini
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Choose Quality Sausage: Use high-quality Italian sausage for the best flavor. Avoid using overly processed versions, which can dilute the dish's robust taste.
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Cooking Timing: Make sure to cook the tortellini just until al dente; it’ll continue to cook with the sauce. Overcooked pasta can turn mushy in your creamy garlic Parmesan tortellini.
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Creaminess Control: If the sauce gets too thick, don’t hesitate to add a splash of the reserved pasta water or additional broth. This keeps your dish perfectly creamy and luscious.
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Garlic Watch: Keep an eye on the garlic while sautéing to prevent it from burning, as burnt garlic can introduce a bitter flavor to your sauce.
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Season to Taste: Always taste and adjust the seasoning before serving. Adding a pinch more salt or a dash of red pepper flakes can elevate the whole dish!
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini Variations
Feel free to make this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini your own with these delightful twists!
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Dairy-Free: Swap heavy cream with coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a creamy, dairy-free version.
This will add a rich texture while keeping the flavors satiating and delicious. -
Veggie Boost: Add mushrooms or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.
Sauté these vegetables along with the garlic to allow their flavors to meld beautifully. -
Spicy Kick: Toss in diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for an extra layer of heat.
This adds a thrilling twist to the creamy sauce that those who love spice will truly enjoy. -
Protein Swap: Use ground turkey or chicken sausage instead of Italian sausage for a leaner option.
The dish remains satisfying and flavorful, while lightening it up for those watching their diet. -
Gluten-Free: Choose gluten-free tortellini made from rice or chickpea flour for a gluten-sensitive alternative.
You'll still savor the rich sauce while accommodating dietary needs without compromise. -
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or thyme to elevate the flavor profile of the dish.
Adding herbs gives it a fresh and vibrant twist that perfectly complements the creamy texture. -
Pasta Alternative: Try using gnocchi instead of tortellini for a delightful change in texture and chew.
This will provide a soft, pillow-like experience that’s both comforting and satisfying at the same time. -
Cheese Lover’s Delight: Mix in a blend of cheeses like ricotta or mozzarella for a multi-dimensional cheese experience.
This not only intensifies the creaminess but also allows for a unique flavor combination to savor.
With these variations, you can turn your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini into a unique dish every time — perfect for keeping those fast food cravings at bay!
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli Recipe FAQs
What type of tortellini should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely, I recommend using fresh or refrigerated cheese tortellini! They give the dish the best texture and flavor. If you can’t find fresh tortellini, dry tortellini can work but may require a longer cooking time.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, do so gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to help restore that creamy consistency.
Can I freeze Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini?
Yes! Let the tortellini cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove, adding a bit of chicken broth or cream to keep it luscious.
What should I do if the sauce is too thick?
No worries! If you find the sauce has thickened too much, simply add a splash of reserved pasta water or chicken broth. Stir it in gradually until you reach the desired creaminess. Sometimes, a little extra liquid can make all the difference!
Are there any dietary considerations for this dish?
Absolutely! This recipe contains dairy elements (heavy cream and Parmesan cheese), so it’s not suitable for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies. You can substitute with lactose-free cream and cheese or explore plant-based cheese alternatives for a dairy-free version.
How can I make this dish spicier?
For those who love a kick, adding red pepper flakes is a fantastic option! Start with a pinch and taste before adding more, as it can escalate quickly. You can also consider tossing in a bit of diced jalapeño or hot sausage if you want to elevate the heat level.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini: A Cozy Comfort Dish
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Remove the casing from the Italian sausage and break it into small pieces. Cook for 5–7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 9 ounces of tortellini and cook according to package directions for 3–5 minutes until tender. Drain and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add 3 minced cloves of garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add 2 cups of broccoli florets to the skillet. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until tender yet bright green.
- Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth and 1 cup of heavy cream. Stir and bring to a gentle simmer. Gradually whisk in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes as desired.
- Return the cooked sausage and tortellini to the skillet, tossing gently to coat. Allow to simmer for 2–3 minutes, adding reserved pasta water or broth if the sauce is too thick.
- Serve immediately, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan on top.
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