If you’re craving a rich, creamy pasta dish that’s both easy to make and full of flavor, this Creamy Tortellini with Tomatoes & Sausage is exactly what you need. With plump cheese tortellini, savory Italian sausage, and a luscious tomato cream sauce, this recipe delivers a restaurant-quality meal in under 30 minutes.
Perfect for busy weeknights, special dinners, or cozy comfort food cravings, this dish is hearty, satisfying, and completely irresistible.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔️ One-Pot Wonder – Everything cooks in one pan for easy cleanup.
✔️ Rich & Creamy – A silky tomato cream sauce coats every bite.
✔️ Quick & Simple – Ready in just 30 minutes.
✔️ Versatile & Customizable – Easily switch up proteins, veggies, and seasonings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Tortellini:
- 10 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
For the Sauce:
- 1 lb Italian sausage, browned and drained
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Optional Add-Ins:
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (for spice)
- 1 cup baby spinach (for extra greens)
- Fresh basil (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Sausage & Aromatics
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add Italian sausage and cook until browned. Drain excess grease.
- Stir in onion and cook for 3 minutes until soft.
- Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Simmer the Sauce
- Add cherry tomatoes and cook until they soften, about 5 minutes.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 3: Cook the Tortellini
- Add tortellini directly into the sauce.
- Cover and let simmer for 5–7 minutes, or until tortellini is tender.
- Stir in red pepper flakes or spinach if using.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy
- Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan cheese.
- Serve warm with crusty bread or a side salad.
Why This Recipe Works So Well
This one-pot meal lets the flavors develop beautifully while keeping prep and cleanup minimal. The cream sauce is rich yet balanced by the acidity of the tomatoes, and the Italian sausage adds the perfect savory depth.
Variations & Customizations
✔️ Make It Spicy – Add extra red pepper flakes or spicy Italian sausage.
✔️ Go Vegetarian – Skip the sausage and add mushrooms or zucchini.
✔️ Try a Different Protein – Swap sausage for chicken, shrimp, or bacon.
✔️ Lighten It Up – Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
Tips for the Best Creamy Tortellini
🔹 Use Fresh Tortellini – They cook faster and absorb flavors better.
🔹 Don’t Overcook the Pasta – Tortellini should be tender but firm.
🔹 Adjust the Sauce Consistency – If too thick, add a splash of broth.
🔹 Taste & Adjust – Balance the flavors with extra Parmesan or seasoning.
Serving Suggestions
🍞 With Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
🥗 With a Fresh Salad – A light Caesar or arugula salad complements the richness.
🍷 With Wine or Lemonade – Pair with white wine, sparkling water, or lemonade.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Tortellini with Tomatoes & Sausage is everything you want in a comfort meal—quick, rich, and packed with bold flavors. Whether you’re cooking for family, guests, or just yourself, this one-pan wonder is guaranteed to impress.
👉 Try it tonight and let us know how it turned out!