Creating a comforting dish that brings together creamy textures and bold flavors is like wrapping yourself in a warm, cozy blanket after a long day. Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli is a harmonious blend of savory sausage, tender broccoli, and cheesy tortellini, all enveloped in a luscious cream sauce. This recipe has quickly become a family favorite, perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests on special occasions.
Why you’ll love this dish
You might wonder what makes this recipe stand out in a sea of pasta dishes. First off, it’s incredibly quick to prepare—ideal for those busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending ages in the kitchen. It’s also budget-friendly, utilizing staple ingredients that you likely already have on hand. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser! The balance of flavors and textures appeals to both kids and adults alike.
"This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini dish was a hit at our family dinner! The combination of sausage and broccoli took it to the next level, and my kids couldn’t get enough!" – Happy Home Cook
The cooking process explained
Making Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli is a straightforward process that anyone can tackle. You’ll start by browning the sausage for flavor, followed by sautéing garlic to bring out its aromatic qualities. The cream and Parmesan cheese create a velvety sauce that binds everything together. Finally, you’ll throw in the tortellini and broccoli for a complete meal. It’s all about layering flavors while keeping the steps simple!
What you’ll need
Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! Here’s a quick list of what you’ll need:
- 1 package cheese tortellini (about 20 oz)
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Feel free to experiment! For instance, you can swap the sausage for chicken or use a plant-based alternative if you’re looking for a lighter or vegetarian dish.
Directions to follow
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it into crumbles, until browned and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted. Season with salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
- Meanwhile, cook the tortellini in a large pot of salted boiling water according to the package instructions. Add broccoli florets during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, then drain.
- Add the cooked sausage, drained tortellini, and broccoli to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat everything well.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan and cracked black pepper.
Best ways to enjoy it
To elevate your dining experience, consider serving this wonderful pasta dish with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top not only enhances the flavor but also makes for a beautiful presentation. Pair it with a light white wine, and you’ve got yourself a perfect meal for entertaining or simply indulging on a weeknight.
Storage and reheating tips
Leftovers? No problem! Store any remaining tortellini in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave it in a bowl, covered with a damp paper towel, for about 2 minutes or until heated through. If you want even more longevity, this dish can be frozen—just be sure to cool it completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container. It’ll keep well for up to 2 months.
Pro chef tips
- Cooking the sausage until it’s nicely browned brings out deeper flavors, so don’t rush this step!
- Always reserve a bit of pasta water before draining the tortellini; the starchy water can help adjust the sauce’s consistency if it turns out to be too thick.
- Experiment with different types of cheese! Adding a bit of mozzarella can create a wonderfully gooey texture.
Creative twists
Feel free to get creative! You can add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra nutrition and flavor. For a lighter version, swap the heavy cream for coconut milk or a cashew cream alternative. Changing up the seasonings can also offer a new take; consider adding fresh basil or Italian seasoning for an herbaceous twist.
Your questions answered
How long does it take to make this recipe?
From start to finish, you can have this creamy delight on the table in about 30 minutes!
Can I use frozen tortellini?
Absolutely! Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
How do I keep leftovers fresh?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They should stay fresh for up to 3 days.
Is this recipe easily adjustable for dietary needs?
Yes! You can easily swap the sausage for turkey or plant-based options, and choose gluten-free tortellini to accommodate various dietary preferences.
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings everyone together around the table, creating memories that last. Dive in and enjoy every bite!
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 20 oz 1 package cheese tortellini
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it into crumbles, until browned and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted. Season with salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
- Meanwhile, cook the tortellini in a large pot of salted boiling water according to the package instructions. Add broccoli florets during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, then drain.
- Add the cooked sausage, drained tortellini, and broccoli to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat everything well.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan and cracked black pepper.
