Indulge in Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage Today!

Pasta dishes have a special way of bringing people together, and when you combine the rich, creamy flavors of garlic, Parmesan, and tortellini with the heartiness of Italian sausage and the freshness of broccoli, you’ve got a winning recipe that’s sure to become a new family favorite. This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli is the ultimate comfort food that’s easy to prepare and packed with irresistible taste.

Table of Contents

Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini

• 1 (9-12 oz) package cheese tortellini
• 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Salt to taste
• Red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Cooking Instructions for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini

Let’s get started on creating this delightful pasta dish!

Cook the Tortellini

Begin by cooking the tortellini according to the package directions in salted boiling water. Once cooked, drain and set aside.

Brown the Sausage

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. Cook until the sausage is browned, about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.

Cook the Broccoli

In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and the broccoli florets. Sauté the broccoli for 4 to 5 minutes, or until it’s tender-crisp. Remove the broccoli from the skillet and set it aside with the cooked sausage.

Make the Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter in the skillet. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1 to 2 minutes.

Add Liquids

Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring constantly until the sauce is smooth. Season the sauce with garlic powder, black pepper, and salt to taste.

Thicken and Add Cheese

Allow the sauce to simmer for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese until it’s melted and the sauce is creamy.

Combine Everything

Add the cooked tortellini, sausage, and broccoli back to the skillet. Gently toss everything together to ensure the pasta, sausage, and broccoli are evenly coated in the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce.

Serve and Enjoy

Garnish the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, if desired. Serve this comforting pasta dish immediately for maximum enjoyment.

Flavor Enhancements and Variations

While this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli is already packed with flavor, there are plenty of ways to customize it to suit your taste preferences. Consider adding a teaspoon of Italian seasoning or a pinch of lemon zest to the sauce for an extra layer of flavor. You could also swap out the broccoli for other vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes. For a vegetarian option, simply omit the sausage and add more vegetables or plant-based protein sources.

Serving Suggestions for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini

This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad and a slice of garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal. For a more indulgent pairing, consider serving it with a full-bodied red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or a bold Merlot. This dish is perfect for family dinners, date nights, or any occasion when you’re craving a comforting and delicious pasta dish.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

Leftover Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the pasta in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. For meal prep, you can cook the tortellini, sausage, and broccoli in advance, then quickly assemble the dish and make the sauce when you’re ready to serve. This makes for a convenient and delicious weeknight dinner option.

FAQs About Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini

What type of sausage works best for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini?

Italian sausage is a popular choice for this dish due to its flavorful spices and seasonings. You can opt for mild or spicy varieties based on your heat preference. Other options include chicken sausage for a lighter version or even plant-based sausages for a vegetarian alternative. Always be sure to brown the sausage well to enhance its flavor before adding it to the sauce.

Can I use other types of pasta instead of tortellini?

Yes, you can substitute tortellini with other pasta shapes if preferred. Options like penne, fusilli, or farfalle can work well. Just keep in mind that cooking times will vary depending on the pasta you choose, so be sure to follow the package instructions. You may also want to add additional seasonings or cheese to maintain a rich flavor profile that complements the creamy sauce.

How can I make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini healthier?

To make this dish healthier, consider using whole grain tortellini or a vegetable-based alternative to increase fiber content. You can also reduce the amount of heavy cream by substituting it with a mixture of Greek yogurt and chicken broth, which will lower the fat content while still providing creaminess. Additionally, incorporating more vegetables, such as spinach or zucchini, can enhance the nutritional profile of the dish without sacrificing flavor.

What can I serve with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini to make it a complete meal?

To create a well-rounded meal, consider serving Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with a side salad, such as a classic Caesar or a mixed greens salad with vinaigrette. Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread can also complement the dish beautifully. For a protein boost, grilled chicken or shrimp can be paired alongside the tortellini, making the meal more filling and satisfying.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne
• Garlic Parmesan Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Beef
• Creamy One-Pot Broccoli Cheddar Orzo
• Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli is a dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends. The combination of tender tortellini, savory sausage, and fresh broccoli, all coated in a rich and creamy garlic Parmesan sauce, is simply irresistible. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this pasta dish is guaranteed to satisfy your comfort food cravings. So what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients and get ready to indulge in the deliciousness of Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli!

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