Savory Cheese Tortellini with Sausage and Spinach

Indulge in the comforting flavors of Cheese Tortellini Sausage Spinach with this easy and flavorful recipe. The combination of savory Italian sausage, cheesy tortellini, and vibrant spinach in a creamy tomato sauce is a true crowd-pleaser that brings warmth to the table on busy weeknights.

This recipe is a lifesaver for those evenings when time is short but the desire for a delicious meal is high. The richness of the sauce paired with the hearty sausage and tender tortellini creates a dish that is both satisfying and special. Each forkful is a harmonious blend of flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Whether you’re looking to whip up a quick family dinner or impress guests at a potluck, Cheese Tortellini Sausage Spinach is a versatile dish that never fails to deliver on taste and comfort. With simple substitutions and the option to customize to your preferences, this recipe is a keeper that can be enjoyed time and time again.

Quick Benefits

• Ultimate comfort food: Provides a cozy and satisfying meal that feels special without spending hours at the stove.
• Family-friendly: Draws everyone to the table with its combination of savory sausage and cheesy pasta, making it a hit with both kids and adults.
• Versatile: Offers options for customization such as swapping ingredients like sausage for ground turkey or white beans, or using different greens like kale or arugula.
• Make-ahead friendly: Leftovers taste delicious the next day and can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for future meals.

Why You’ll Love This Savory Cheese Tortellini with Sausage and Spinach Recipe

• The combination of savory Italian sausage, cheesy tortellini, and creamy tomato sauce creates a comforting and satisfying meal that feels special enough for any occasion.
• It is a quick and easy recipe that is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a delicious meal on the table fast.
• This dish is a hit with the whole family – even picky eaters will love the flavors and textures in every bite.
• Leftovers taste just as delicious the next day, and the sauce thickens and becomes even richer, making it a great option for meal prep.
• The recipe is versatile and can be customized to suit your preferences – swap out ingredients like sausage for ground turkey or white beans, or use different greens like kale or arugula.
• It can be served as a cozy family meal straight from the skillet, making it a perfect dish for gatherings or potlucks.
• The recipe has a nostalgic feel, reminiscent of classic Italian-American comfort food, making it a comforting and familiar dish for many.
• You can make this recipe your own by experimenting with different cooking methods, such as slow cooking or finishing in the oven for a bubbly, cheesy finish.
• Whether you use fresh or frozen cheese tortellini, and opt for mild or spicy Italian sausage, this recipe is flexible and accommodating to your preferences and what you have on hand.

Ingredients for Savory Cheese Tortellini with Sausage and Spinach

Pasta

• 500 g fresh or frozen cheese tortellini

Meat

• 225 g Italian sausage, mild or spicy, casings removed

Vegetables

• 60 g baby spinach leaves

Sauce

• 240 ml marinara or tomato sauce
• 120 ml heavy cream

Cheese

• 60 g shredded mozzarella cheese
• 25 g grated Parmesan cheese

Oils and Seasonings

• 15 ml olive oil
• Salt, freshly ground black pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste

Pro Tips for Savory Cheese Tortellini with Sausage and Spinach

Pro Tip 1: For a time-saving hack, consider making a double batch of this cheese tortellini sausage spinach dish and freeze individual portions for quick and tasty meals later on. This is a great way to have a homemade meal ready to go on busy nights without sacrificing flavor or quality.

Pro Tip 2: Experiment with different types of cheese tortellini, such as ones filled with ricotta or spinach, to add variety to the dish. The filling can bring new flavors and textures to the meal, keeping it exciting for you and your family each time you make it.

Pro Tip 3: To enhance the flavors of the dish, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg to the creamy tomato sauce. Nutmeg pairs well with cheese and cream-based sauces, adding a warm and aromatic touch that elevates the overall taste of the dish.

How to Make Savory Cheese Tortellini with Sausage and Spinach

Step 1: Cook the Tortellini

1. Bring a large saucepan of salted water to a boil. Cook tortellini according to package instructions until al dente, typically 3–5 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Sausage

In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add Italian sausage, breaking into small pieces with a wooden spoon, and cook until browned.

Step 3: Simmer with Tomato Sauce

Mix the marinara or tomato sauce into the cooked sausage. Simmer on low heat for 5 minutes to blend flavors.

Step 4: Incorporate Cream

Stir in the heavy cream with the sausage and tomato mixture, then gently heat until the sauce is warmed through.

Step 5: Add Spinach

Gently mix in the baby spinach and cook for 1–2 minutes until wilted.

Step 6: Combine and Add Cheeses

Add the drained tortellini to the sauce and gently toss to coat. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top, then carefully fold to combine.

Step 7: Melt the Cheese

Cover the pan and cook for 2–3 minutes until the cheeses melt and the dish turns creamy.

Step 8: Season and Serve

Adjust seasoning with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste. Serve immediately, optionally garnished with extra Parmesan or chili flakes.

Storage Tips

Once you have prepared the Cheese Tortellini Sausage Spinach dish, any leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Cover the dish well to maintain freshness. The creamy sauce in the dish tends to thicken and develop a richer taste as it sits, making it a delicious option for the next day’s meal. Before reheating, consider adding a splash of cream or milk to help the sauce return to its original silky texture.

If you plan to freeze the dish, allow it to cool completely before transferring it into airtight containers. Freezing the dish is a convenient option for preserving it for a longer period. When you’re ready to reheat the frozen dish, ensure you add a bit of cream or milk during the reheating process to help restore the sauce’s creamy consistency. This Cheese Tortellini Sausage Spinach recipe is versatile, allowing for ingredient swaps like using ground turkey or white beans for a meatless option, or incorporating kale or arugula instead of spinach for a different flavor profile.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have cheese tortellini on hand, you can easily substitute it with other types of filled pasta like ravioli or tortelloni. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the package instructions.

For a vegetarian version, you can omit the Italian sausage and instead use a plant-based sausage or simply increase the amount of spinach for a flavorful meat-free alternative.

If you want to lighten up the dish, you can swap the heavy cream for half and half or even milk to reduce the calorie content while still achieving a creamy texture. Additionally, using part-skim mozzarella cheese can help cut down on the fat without sacrificing the cheesy goodness.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try baking the cheese tortellini sausage spinach mixture in individual ramekins topped with extra mozzarella until bubbly and golden brown. This not only adds a fun twist to the presentation but also creates a deliciously cheesy crust on top that everyone will love.

Another idea is to serve the cheese tortellini sausage spinach in a bread bowl. Simply hollow out a round loaf of crusty bread, toast it slightly in the oven, and then fill it with the creamy pasta mixture. This not only makes for a stunning presentation but also allows guests to enjoy the dish and the bread together, soaking up all the delicious flavors. Garnish with fresh herbs or shaved Parmesan for an extra touch of elegance.

FAQs for Savory Cheese Tortellini with Sausage and Spinach

Can I use fresh or frozen cheese tortellini for this recipe?

Yes, both fresh and frozen cheese tortellini work well. Just follow package cook times and drain before adding.

Should I use mild or spicy Italian sausage for this dish?

Both mild or spicy Italian sausage are suitable. Choose spicy for more heat or mild for a balanced flavor.

What can I use instead of baby spinach?

Baby kale or arugula are good alternatives if spinach is not available or to change up the greens.

How do I make the sauce creamy?

Add heavy cream to the marinara and let it simmer gently to combine into a smooth, rich sauce.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this Cheese Tortellini Sausage Spinach recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that offers a perfect blend of flavors and textures. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner for your family or looking for a dish to impress at a potluck, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your rotation. The creamy tomato sauce, savory sausage, and tender spinach all come together beautifully to create a comforting and satisfying meal.

Remember, don’t be afraid to get creative and make this recipe your own by experimenting with different ingredients and cooking methods. Whether you prefer fresh or frozen tortellini, spicy or mild sausage, or a variation of greens, this versatile dish will always deliver a delicious outcome. So go ahead, gather your loved ones around the table, and enjoy a bowl of this delectable Cheese Tortellini Sausage Spinach – a dish that embodies the heartwarming essence of Italian comfort food.