If you're on the hunt for a quick and indulgent dinner that will impress your taste buds, look no further than this Creamy Smoked Sausage Tortellini! In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a delightful Italian-inspired dish that combines the savory flavors of smoked sausage with the rich creaminess of a luscious sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner party, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Get ready to dive into a bowl of comfort that’s as satisfying as it is simple to make!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 package (9 oz) cheese tortellini
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 1 lb of smoked sausage, 1 package (9 oz) of cheese tortellini, 1 cup of heavy cream, 1 cup of chopped spinach, 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 tsp of garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat over medium heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the sausage is browned and heated through. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- While the sausage is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the cheese tortellini and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 3-5 minutes, until they float to the top and are tender.
- Once the tortellini is cooked, reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the rest and set aside.
- Return to the skillet with the smoked sausage. Lower the heat to medium-low and add the heavy cream to the skillet. Stir well to combine, allowing the cream to heat through for about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the chopped spinach to the skillet, stirring until it wilts down, which should take about 2 minutes.
- Sprinkle in the garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed throughout the creamy mixture.
- Next, add the cooked tortellini to the skillet, gently folding it into the creamy sausage and spinach mixture. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
- Finally, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and combines with the sauce, creating a rich and creamy texture.
- Once everything is well mixed and heated through, taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve the creamy smoked sausage tortellini hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your delicious Italian-inspired meal!
Tips
- Sauté the Sausage Properly: Make sure to brown the smoked sausage well for extra flavor. This step adds a delicious depth to your dish, so don’t rush it!
- Don’t Overcook the Tortellini: Follow the package instructions carefully. Overcooked tortellini can become mushy, so keep an eye on them as they float to the top of the boiling water.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Always save a bit of the pasta cooking water before draining. This starchy liquid is a great way to adjust the sauce's consistency without losing flavor.
- Experiment with Greens: While spinach is a fantastic choice, feel free to substitute or add other greens like kale or arugula for a different twist.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste your sauce before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. A pinch of red pepper flakes can also add a nice kick if you enjoy some heat!
- Garnish for Presentation: For an extra touch, garnish your dish with freshly grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of chopped parsley or basil to enhance both the flavor and the visual appeal.
- Leftovers: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to revive the sauce.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 650kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 45g
Saturated Fat: 22g
Cholesterol: 120mg
