There’s something incredibly comforting about pasta dishes that combine rich flavors and creamy textures, and this Creamy Italian Sausage Tortellini Recipe hits all those notes perfectly. Imagine tender cheese-filled tortellini enveloped in a luscious blend of Alfredo and marinara sauces, perfectly seasoned Italian sausage for a savory punch, and a melty mozzarella topping that brings it all together. This dish is a breeze to make but feels like a special occasion on a plate, ready to become one of your go-to favorites for dinner any night of the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity and balance, where each ingredient plays an important role in building flavor, texture, and even a pop of color. From the hearty Italian sausage to the creamy Alfredo and bright marinara sauces, every component works together to create a dish that’s vibrant, comforting, and so satisfying.
- 1 lb Italian sausage: Brings a rich, savory depth that’s the heart of the dish.
- 1 chopped onion: Adds sweetness and texture when softened with the sausage.
- 1 tbsp minced garlic: A small but crucial flavor booster for that classic Italian aroma.
- 15 oz jar Rao’s Alfredo sauce: Creamy and smooth, it forms the luscious base of the sauce.
- 15 oz Rao’s Marinara sauce: Provides a tangy, herby counterbalance to the Alfredo’s richness.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: Blends oregano, basil, and thyme to elevate the sauce’s flavor profile.
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes: Adds just the right gentle kick without overpowering the dish.
- 19 oz frozen cheese tortellini: Perfectly cheesy centers that soak up all the delicious sauce.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully on top for a golden, bubbly finish.
- Parsley flakes: A fresh hint of color and mild herbaceous flavor to garnish.
How to Make Creamy Italian Sausage Tortellini Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Sausage and Onion
Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add your Italian sausage alongside the chopped onion. Cooking them together lets the sausage release its flavorful fat that gently softens the onion. Keep stirring until the sausage is nicely browned and the onion turns translucent. This step builds the savory foundation of your dish. For an even cleaner finish, drain off any excess grease before moving on.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
Turn the heat down to medium-low, and stir in the minced garlic. Garlic quickly becomes aromatic in the warm pan, setting you up for flavor success. Add both the Alfredo sauce and marinara sauce into the skillet. The creaminess of Alfredo perfectly balances the tang and herbs of the marinara to create a harmonious sauce. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes for that classic Italian flavor with a subtle touch of heat. Stir everything thoroughly to blend these tasty ingredients.
Step 3: Add the Tortellini
Next up, it’s time to introduce the frozen cheese tortellini. Gently stir them into the sauce so they’re completely coated and cozy inside that creamy, savory bath. Cover the skillet with a lid to trap steam and simmer the mixture for about 8 to 10 minutes. During this time, the tortellini will cook perfectly tender while soaking up the flavors around them — such a simple but magic step!
Step 4: Melt the Cheese
Once the tortellini are ready, sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly over the top. If you’re oven-friendly, transfer your skillet to a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 3 to 5 minutes until the cheese melts into a bubbly, golden blanket. No oven? No problem! Just cover the skillet again and keep it over low heat on the stove until the mozzarella achieves that perfect gooey melt.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Finally, take your skillet off the heat and sprinkle a generous pinch of dried parsley flakes across the top. This not only adds a touch of inviting green color but also a subtle herbaceous note that complements every bite. Serve your Creamy Italian Sausage Tortellini Recipe hot and watch it disappear fast!
How to Serve Creamy Italian Sausage Tortellini Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes can elevate this dish beautifully. A sprinkle of fresh or dried parsley adds a lovely contrast that’s both colorful and fresh-tasting. You might even try a few shavings of Parmesan or a drizzle of good olive oil for an extra rich finish. These little touches make serving feel special without complicating your prep.
Side Dishes
Since the tortellini is wonderfully rich and filling, lighter sides work best. A crisp green salad with tangy vinaigrette or some roasted seasonal vegetables bring brightness. Garlic bread or warm focaccia is perfect if you want something to soak up every last drop of that heavenly sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy family dinner, serve the Creamy Italian Sausage Tortellini Recipe right in the skillet for a rustic, communal feel everyone will love. Hosting a dinner party? Plate the tortellini individually in shallow bowls and garnish each serving with fresh herbs and a twist of cracked black pepper. You can even add a few cherry tomatoes or a basil leaf on top for a vibrant pop that makes your dish look as good as it tastes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, allow the dish to cool slightly, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days while maintaining all those delicious flavors. The tortellini may absorb some sauce upon sitting, so give it a gentle stir before reheating.
Freezing
This recipe freezes brilliantly. Just pack it in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible. It can be stored frozen for up to 2 months. To enjoy later, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove or in the oven to preserve the creamy texture.
Reheating
Reheat your Creamy Italian Sausage Tortellini Recipe slowly over medium-low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally to keep the sauce smooth and prevent sticking. Adding a splash of milk or cream can revive the silky texture if it thickened too much during storage. Alternatively, use the oven to warm it through uncovered at 350°F (175°C) until bubbling hot.
FAQs
Can I use turkey sausage instead of Italian sausage?
Absolutely! Turkey sausage is a great leaner alternative that still provides plenty of flavor. Just be sure to season it well or choose a pre-seasoned Italian-style turkey sausage for the closest taste match.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Simply swap the Italian sausage for a plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms and bell peppers to replicate that hearty texture. The creamy sauces will keep the dish rich and satisfying.
Can I use fresh tortellini instead of frozen?
Fresh tortellini works beautifully and will cook much faster, usually just 2–4 minutes in the sauce. Adjust your simmering time accordingly to avoid overcooking.
What’s the best way to avoid the dish becoming too salty?
Since both Alfredo and marinara sauces can have salt, opt for low-sodium versions if possible. Taste the sauce after mixing and adjust seasonings gradually to keep it balanced without overwhelming saltiness.
How spicy is this recipe?
The red pepper flakes add just a mild kick that enhances the overall flavor without making the dish too spicy. You can easily adjust the amount to suit your palate by adding less or more depending on your heat preference.
Final Thoughts
If you want a dish that feels indulgent but comes together quickly and easily, this Creamy Italian Sausage Tortellini Recipe is pure magic. It hits that perfect balance of creamy, savory, and cheesy, making every bite irresistible. Give it a try soon and watch how it becomes a fast favorite in your dinner rotation—you’ll find yourself craving it again and again!
Print
Creamy Italian Sausage Tortellini Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Creamy Italian Sausage Tortellini recipe features savory Italian sausage cooked with onions and a blend of Alfredo and marinara sauces, tossed with tender cheese tortellini and topped with melted mozzarella cheese. Quick and comforting, it’s perfect for an easy weeknight meal with rich Italian flavors.
Ingredients
Meat and Aromatics
- 1 lb Italian sausage
- 1 chopped onion
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
Sauces and Seasoning
- 15 oz jar Rao’s Alfredo sauce
- 15 oz Rao’s Marinara sauce
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
Pasta and Cheese
- 19 oz frozen cheese tortellini
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Garnish
- Parsley flakes
Instructions
- Cook the sausage and onion: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage and chopped onion. Cook until the sausage is browned and the onion is softened. Drain any excess grease from the skillet to keep the dish from being too oily.
- Prepare the sauce: Lower heat to medium-low. Add the minced garlic, Alfredo sauce, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Stir well to combine all ingredients into a smooth and flavorful sauce.
- Add tortellini: Stir in the frozen cheese tortellini, making sure the pasta is fully coated in the sauce. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer for 8-10 minutes, or until the tortellini are tender and cooked through.
- Melt the cheese: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the tortellini and sauce. Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) and bake for 3-5 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. As an alternative, you can keep the skillet covered on the stove over low heat until the cheese melts completely.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle dried parsley flakes over the top for a pop of color and freshness, then serve hot and enjoy this creamy, cheesy dish.
Notes
- You can substitute fresh tortellini for frozen; just adjust cooking time accordingly.
- If you want a spicier dish, increase the red pepper flakes to taste.
- This dish can be made vegetarian by replacing the sausage with plant-based Italian sausage or mushrooms.
- Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat nicely on the stovetop or microwave.
