One Pan Tortellini with Sausage – The Easy Comfort Food You’ll Keep Making Again and Again
I’ll be honest with you—I didn’t plan on this recipe. It just sort of happened one night when I wanted something quick, cheesy, and comforting without piling up dishes in the sink. I had a pack of tortellini, some sausage, and a little cream in the fridge.
I threw it all into one pan, and what came out was so good I had to make it again the next night. And trust me, if you try this, you’ll want it on repeat too.
This dish is rich, creamy, cheesy, and hearty—but the best part? It’s all cooked in one pan, which means less work and more time to actually enjoy dinner. Let me break it all down for you.
Why You’ll Love This One Pan Tortellini with Sausage
This recipe hits every craving at once. The sausage adds a bold, savory flavor that balances perfectly with the creamy sauce. The tortellini soaks up all the flavor and turns soft, cheesy, and filling. Plus, it’s done in under 30 minutes—so it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
If you like comfort food that doesn’t make you stand in the kitchen for hours, this will be your new go-to meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You don’t need a long shopping list for this. Everything is simple and easy to find:
- Tortellini – Cheese-filled is best, but any filling works.
- Italian Sausage – Sweet or spicy, depending on your taste.
- Garlic & Onion – For that flavor base.
- Tomatoes or Tomato Sauce – Gives the dish a tangy, rich base.
- Heavy Cream – To make it smooth and creamy.
- Spinach (optional) – Adds color and freshness.
- Parmesan Cheese – Because cheese makes everything better.
- Olive Oil + Seasonings – Salt, pepper, red pepper flakes if you like heat.
How to Make It (Step-by-Step)
This recipe is all about keeping things simple. One pan, a few steps, and you’re done:
- Cook the Sausage – Start by browning your sausage in olive oil until it’s golden and a little crispy. This builds the main flavor.
- Add Garlic and Onion – Toss them in and let them soften. The smell will already be amazing.
- Stir in Tomatoes or Sauce – This creates the base of your creamy sauce. Let it simmer for a few minutes.
- Add the Tortellini – No need to boil them separately! They’ll cook right in the sauce and soak up all the flavor.
- Pour in Cream – Stir until the sauce turns rich and velvety.
- Add Spinach (if using) – Let it wilt gently in the hot sauce.
- Finish with Parmesan – Sprinkle a big handful on top and stir until melted.
That’s it—you’re ready to dig in.
Tips to Make It Even Better
- Use spicy sausage if you like a little kick—it balances so well with the creamy sauce.
- Don’t overcook the tortellini—they cook fast and taste best when soft but not mushy.
- Add more veggies—zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers all work well.
- Make it cheesy—if you love cheese, add mozzarella on top and let it melt before serving.
Why This Recipe Works for Everyone
I love this recipe because it doesn’t matter if you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or even guests—it always feels like something special. It’s cozy, hearty, and full of flavor, but still super easy to make. Kids love it, adults love it, and honestly, it’s the kind of dish you want to eat straight from the pan.
Serving Ideas
You can serve this one pan tortellini on its own, but if you want to make it a full dinner, try adding:
- A side of garlic bread (to scoop up that sauce).
- A simple green salad with vinaigrette.
- A glass of red wine if you’re feeling fancy.
Storing and Reheating
This dish stores well, so don’t worry about leftovers:
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm on the stove with a splash of cream or milk to bring back the sauce.
- Freezer: Not the best because tortellini can get mushy, but you can freeze the sauce and add fresh pasta later.
FAQs about One Pan Tortellini with Sausage
Q: Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes! Just add a couple extra minutes of cooking time.
Q: What kind of sausage works best?
Italian sausage is perfect, but chicken sausage or even ground beef can work too.
Q: Can I make this without cream?
You can swap cream for half-and-half or even milk, but the sauce won’t be as rich.
Q: How do I make it spicier?
Use hot Italian sausage and add red pepper flakes while cooking.
Q: Can I make it vegetarian?
Absolutely. Skip the sausage and use mushrooms or zucchini for a meaty texture.
Q: Can I double this recipe?
Yes, just make sure your pan is big enough. Everything else stays the same.
This recipe is the kind you’ll come back to again and again. It’s quick, easy, and so satisfying—basically, everything you want on a weeknight.
