Sausage Tortellini Skillet Recipe

Why We Love This Recipe

• Simplicity and Speed: This recipe is incredibly straightforward and quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy evenings. It delivers a delicious, hearty meal without the need for extensive cooking time or complex techniques.
• One-Pan Wonder: Everything cooks in one skillet, which not only enhances the flavors as they meld together but also simplifies cleanup.
• Flavorful Combination: The mix of Italian sausage, garlic, Italian seasoning, and marinara sauce creates a depth of flavor that is both rich and satisfying.
• Versatile and Adaptable: You can easily modify this recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. It works well with different types of sausage, various cheese fillings in the tortellini, or even with a switch to a creamier or lighter sauce.
• Family-Friendly: This dish is a hit with adults and children alike, thanks to its familiar and comforting flavors.
• Ideal for Leftovers: The dish reheats well, making it perfect for next-day lunches or a quick dinner option.
• Nutritious Elements: With protein-packed sausage and cheese, along with the option to add vegetables, this dish can be a balanced part of a meal.
• Perfect for Entertaining: Its appealing presentation and universally loved flavors make it a great choice for casual entertaining.

Overall, this Sausage Tortellini Skillet recipe is cherished for its combination of ease, flavor, and versatility, making it a go-to choice for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

• 1 pound bulk Italian Sausage
• 1 small onion, diced (about 1 cup)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons Italian Seasoning
• 24 oz marinara sauce
• 13 oz fresh cheese tortellini
• 1/3 cup half and half
• 1/2 cup shredded Mozzarella cheese
• 1 Tablespoon chopped fresh basil, optional

How to Make This Recipe

1. Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet, brown the Italian sausage over medium heat. Break it into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add Aromatics: Once the sausage is cooked, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Season: Stir in the Italian seasoning.
4. Add Marinara Sauce: Pour in the marinara sauce and bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Cook Tortellini: Add the fresh cheese tortellini to the skillet. Cover and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 5-7 minutes.
6. Final Touches: Stir in the half and half and simmer for a couple more minutes. Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese and let it melt.
7. Garnish: Optionally, garnish with chopped fresh basil before serving.

 

Success Tips for Sausage Tortellini Skillet

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality Italian sausage and a good marinara sauce, as these are the backbone of your dish’s flavor.
• Don’t Overcook the Tortellini: Aim for al dente tortellini to avoid them becoming too mushy. They should be just tender when bitten.
• Sauté Sausage Thoroughly: Ensure the sausage is well-browned before adding other ingredients. This step enhances the flavor of the entire dish.
• Drain Excess Fat: After browning the sausage, drain any excess fat for a less greasy, more balanced dish.
• Use Fresh Basil: If available, use fresh basil for garnishing. It adds a burst of freshness and color.
• Adjust the Creaminess: Feel free to adjust the amount of half and half to your preference for creaminess.
• Shred Your Own Cheese: Shredding mozzarella cheese from a block rather than using pre-shredded cheese can result in a meltier, more delicious top layer.
• Stir Gently: When combining ingredients, stir gently to prevent breaking the tortellini.
• Season to Taste: Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed before serving.
• Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed hot and fresh from the skillet for maximum flavor and texture.

By following these tips, you’ll enhance both the flavor and the enjoyment of your Sausage Tortellini Skillet meal.

Storage

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Gently reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened.

Notes for Sausage Tortellini Skillet

• Spice Level Adjustment: For those who prefer a spicier dish, consider using hot Italian sausage or adding a pinch of red pepper flakes. Conversely, for less heat, choose mild Italian sausage.
• Cheese Variations: While mozzarella is recommended for its melting qualities, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Parmesan or provolone for different flavors and textures.
• Vegetarian Options: To make this dish vegetarian, substitute the Italian sausage with a plant-based alternative and use vegetarian cheese tortellini.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation: If you require a gluten-free meal, opt for gluten-free tortellini and ensure that the marinara sauce and sausage are gluten-free.
• Adding Vegetables: For an extra nutritional boost, consider adding vegetables such as spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the skillet.
• Cream Substitutes: If you don’t have half and half, you can use heavy cream for a richer sauce or whole milk for a lighter option.
• Fresh vs. Dried Herbs: While fresh basil is recommended for garnish, dried basil can be used in a pinch. Remember that dried herbs are more potent, so use them sparingly.
• Leftovers: This dish reheats well, making it great for meal prep or next-day lunches. Be cautious not to overheat and dry out the tortellini.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve this dish with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
• Alcohol Addition: For an enhanced flavor, consider deglazing the skillet with a splash of white wine before adding the marinara sauce.

These notes aim to provide additional insights and options for personalizing the Sausage Tortellini Skillet to your taste and dietary needs.

Nutrition Information for Sausage Tortellini Skillet

Please note that the following nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on the specific ingredients and quantities used.

Per Serving (Assuming the recipe serves 4):

• Calories: Approximately 600-700 calories. The bulk of these come from the Italian sausage, cheese tortellini, and cheeses.
• Protein: Roughly 25-30 grams, primarily from the Italian sausage and cheese in the tortellini.
• Carbohydrates: Around 50-60 grams, with a significant portion coming from the tortellini.
• Fat: Approximately 35-45 grams, with a mix of saturated and unsaturated fats from the sausage, cheese, and half and half.
• Fiber: About 4-5 grams, largely from the marinara sauce and the onions.
• Sodium: This can be quite high, especially if store-bought marinara sauce and processed sausage are used. It’s important to check the labels of these ingredients if sodium intake is a concern.
• Sugars: Generally low, but this depends on the sugar content of the marinara sauce used.
• Cholesterol: Present in significant amounts due to the cheese, sausage, and dairy ingredients.

Micronutrients:

• The dish provides calcium from the cheese and dairy products.
• Depending on the marinara sauce and sausage used, it can also offer some iron and potassium.

Dietary Considerations:

• This dish is high in protein but also high in fats and sodium.
• It is not suitable for vegan or gluten-free diets unless specifically modified.
• It can be part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation and paired with vegetables or a salad.

For a more accurate assessment, especially if you’re tracking specific dietary needs, consider using a nutritional calculator with the exact brands and quantities of ingredients you use.

FAQs

• Can I use frozen tortellini? Yes, but adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
• Is this recipe gluten-free? No, but it can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free tortellini.
• Can I make this vegetarian? Yes, use vegetarian sausage and cheese tortellini.

Conclusion

The Sausage Tortellini Skillet is a delightful fusion of robust Italian flavors and comforting, homestyle cooking. This recipe stands out for its simplicity, versatility, and the heartwarming satisfaction it brings to the dinner table. It’s a testament to how a few quality ingredients can come together to create a meal that’s both easy to prepare and delicious to eat.

Ideal for busy weeknights, this one-pan dish minimizes kitchen fuss and maximizes flavor, making it a favorite for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike. With the flexibility to adapt to different tastes and dietary needs, it’s a versatile recipe that can be enjoyed in many forms, be it spicier, vegetarian, or even gluten-free.

In conclusion, the Sausage Tortellini Skillet is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary experience that brings a slice of Italian comfort food into your home. Whether you’re gathering around the table with family or enjoying a quiet, cozy dinner, this dish is sure to delight and satisfy.