Name: Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 oz cheese tortellini; 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy), crumbled; 2 cups broccoli florets; 2 tbsp butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 1/2 cups heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil or parsley, chopped, for garnish

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Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli is a delicious dish that brings comfort and flavor to your table. This meal combines the richness of a creamy sauce with the savory taste of Italian sausage and the nutritious crunch of broccoli.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests with a homemade meal. It is quick to prepare and is packed with flavors that everyone will love. Plus, it’s a one-pan dish, making for easy cooking and cleanup.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli

Making this dish is simple and straightforward. Just follow the steps below, and you’ll have a tasty meal ready in no time!

Ingredients

12 oz cheese tortellini
1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy), crumbled
2 cups broccoli florets
2 tbsp butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 1/2 cups heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil or parsley, chopped, for garnish

Directions

Cook the tortellini according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, cook the crumbled Italian sausage over medium heat until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer, scraping up any bits from the bottom of the skillet.
Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens slightly.
Add the broccoli florets to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until tender.
Return the sausage and tortellini to the skillet, tossing everything together until well coated in the creamy sauce.
Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli

Serve this dish hot straight from the skillet. It pairs wonderfully with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad. Don’t forget to sprinkle extra Parmesan on top for added flavor!

How to Store Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Tips to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli

For more flavor, consider adding some Italian herbs like oregano or basil to the sauce.
If you like your dish to be a bit spicier, increase the amount of red pepper flakes.
Make sure to not overcook the broccoli; it should be tender but still bright green.

Variation

You can customize this recipe by using different vegetables such as spinach, peas, or red bell peppers. For a lighter version, you might substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy milk, adjusting the cooking time as necessary.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes, you can use frozen tortellini. Just cook them according to the package directions before adding them to the sauce.

2. What can I use instead of Italian sausage?
You can substitute Italian sausage with ground turkey, chicken, or a meat alternative for a lighter or vegetarian version.

3. How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free tortellini and check that your chicken broth and Parmesan are gluten-free as well.