Creamy Tortellini with Smoked Sausage Recipe

Oh, I absolutely love sharing this Creamy Tortellini with Smoked Sausage Recipe with you because it s one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug after a long day. The rich, velvety sauce combined with the smoky sausage and tender tortellini creates a flavor combo that s both comforting and a little bit fancy-perfect for weeknight dinners or casual weekend meals. You ll find that it comes together surprisingly fast too, which is a huge win when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

What really makes this Creamy Tortellini with Smoked Sausage Recipe stand out for me is how every bite feels indulgent but still homey. I remember the first time I tried it, and my family went crazy for the way the creamy sauce clings to the pasta with just the right hint of garlic and herbs. Plus, the addition of smoked sausage adds an irresistible depth of flavor that makes this dish more than just another pasta dinner. You ve got to try it-you ll see why it quickly became a go-to in my household.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients in this Creamy Tortellini with Smoked Sausage Recipe work together like a dream, combining savory, creamy, and fresh elements that balance perfectly. When shopping, look for quality smoked sausage and fresh veggies to make the flavors pop even more.

• Olive Oil: A good base for sautéing; adds a subtle fruitiness to the dish.
• Smoked Sausage: Look for one with a nice smoky flavor but not too spicy; it s the star protein here.
• Yellow Onion: Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce.
• Green Bell Pepper: Brings freshness and a slight crunch.
• Red Bell Pepper: Adds a touch of sweetness and vibrant color.
• Veggie Seasoning Blend: Use your favorite mix or simply salt and pepper to keep it simple.
• Garlic Cloves: Essential for that punch of aroma and flavor.
• Chicken Broth: Adds moisture and savory notes without overpowering the creaminess.
• Heavy Cream: The secret to that luscious, silky sauce.
• Boursin Garlic and Fine Herbs Cheese: This cheese melts beautifully and infuses the sauce with herbs and garlic-really elevates the dish.
• Frozen Cheese Tortellini: Convenient and keeps that cheesy filling front and center.
• Parmesan Cheese: For mixing in at the end – sharp but creamy, it rounds out the sauce perfectly.
• Red Pepper Flakes (optional): Adds a little heat if you like a bit of a kick.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste; seasoning makes all the difference here.

Variations

I love how adaptable this Creamy Tortellini with Smoked Sausage Recipe is-feel free to make it your own by swapping or adding ingredients that you love. It s fun to experiment with different veggies or proteins, so don t hesitate to personalize it!

• Vegetarian Version: I once swapped smoked sausage for sautéed mushrooms and added extra herbs-still creamy and satisfying.
• Spice it Up: Adding extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce gives the dish a lively kick that my friends adore.
• Use Different Cheese: If you can t find Boursin, cream cheese mixed with fresh garlic and herbs works well too.
• Add Greens: Toss in some baby spinach or kale near the end of cooking for a nutritional boost and extra color.

How to Make Creamy Tortellini with Smoked Sausage Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Sausage to Perfection

Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook it until it s beautifully browned and slightly crisp on the edges-this step unlocks all those smoky, caramelized flavors. Once done, remove the sausage from the pan and set it aside. Don t rush this part; getting a nice sear really makes a difference.

Step 2: Cook the Veggies Until Tender

In the same skillet (no need to clean out those tasty bits!), add the diced onion and both green and red bell peppers. Sprinkle in your veggie seasoning blend or just a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook everything for about 5 minutes until the veggies soften and release their lovely aromas. This makes the sauce base rich and flavorful-plus, who doesn t love tender peppers in a creamy dish?

Step 3: Add Garlic and Build the Sauce

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for just about 1 minute-enough to get it fragrant but not burnt! Then pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring everything to combine. Next up, add in the Boursin cheese and stir until it melts into a smooth, creamy sauce. This is the magic step where everything comes together and gets that luxurious texture.

Step 4: Cook the Tortellini in the Creamy Sauce

Carefully add the frozen cheese tortellini straight into the skillet-no need to thaw them first! Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then cover the pan and reduce the heat to a simmer. Let everything cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tortellini are tender and soak up that creamy sauce without getting mushy.

Step 5: Finish with Cheese, Spice, and Sausage

Uncover the skillet and stir in the shaved Parmesan cheese for a sharp, nutty boost. If you like a little heat, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes now-trust me, a pinch goes a long way. Return the browned sausage to the pan and simmer everything together for a few more minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Then, serve it up immediately while it s warm and indulgent!

How to Serve Creamy Tortellini with Smoked Sausage Recipe

Garnishes

I always top this dish with a little extra shaved Parmesan and some fresh chopped parsley for color and brightness. Sometimes I add a few freshly cracked black peppercorns on top-those little bursts of pepper flavor really lift the creaminess.

Side Dishes

My favorite sides to pair with this creamy tortellini include a simple mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness, or some roasted asparagus for an easy veggie side. Garlic bread is a no-brainer here, too-perfect for sopping up every last drop of that sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I like to serve the tortellini in individual shallow bowls, drizzling a little extra olive oil and sprinkling crushed red pepper flakes on top. Adding edible flowers or microgreens can make a fun, elegant touch if you re entertaining guests and want it to look extra fancy without extra fuss.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, and they keep nicely for up to 3 days. Since the tortellini soaks up the sauce, it thickens overnight, so be ready to loosen it when reheating.

Freezing

Freezing this dish is totally doable-I freeze leftover portions in freezer-safe containers. Just be aware the texture softens a bit after freezing, but the flavor holds up beautifully. Let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating

When reheating, I like to warm it gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce and prevent it from drying out. You can microwave it too, but stir halfway through so it heats evenly and stays creamy.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Tortellini with Smoked Sausage Recipe holds a special place in my heart because it s quick, delicious, and never fails to bring smiles around the table. It s the kind of meal I reach for when I want comfort without the fuss, and I know you ll enjoy making it just as much as eating it. So give it a try soon-your taste buds (and maybe your family!) will thank you for it.

Creamy Tortellini with Smoked Sausage Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.9 from 59 reviews

• Author: Lucy
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian-American

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Description

This Creamy Tortellini with Smoked Sausage is a comforting and flavorful skillet meal featuring tender cheese tortellini simmered in a rich garlic and herb cream sauce with sautéed smoked sausage and colorful bell peppers. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner, the combination of melted Boursin cheese and Parmesan adds a luscious texture and vibrant taste that the whole family will love.

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Ingredients

Units USM Scale 1x2x3x

Meat and Vegetables

• 14 oz Smoked Sausage, sliced
• 1 Yellow Onion, diced
• 1 Green Bell Pepper, diced
• 1 Red Bell Pepper, diced
• 6-7 Garlic Cloves, minced

Dairy & Cheese

• 1 cup Heavy Cream
• 5.3 oz Boursin Garlic and Fine Herbs Cheese
• 3 oz Shaved or Grated Parmesan Cheese

Pantry & Seasoning

• 1 tbsp Olive Oil
• 1 tbsp Veggie Seasoning Blend
• 1 cup Chicken Broth
• 1/2-1 tsp Red Pepper Flakes (optional)
• Salt and Pepper to taste

Pasta

• 19 oz Frozen Cheese Tortellini

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Instructions

1. Brown the Sausage: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage and sauté until browned and slightly crispy on the edges. Remove the sausage from the pan and set aside.
2. Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add diced yellow onion, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper. Sprinkle with 1 tablespoon of veggie seasoning blend, and cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables have softened and released their aromas.
3. Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic cloves and cook for an additional 1 minute, allowing the garlic to become fragrant but not burn.
4. Create Cream Sauce: Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth and 1 cup of heavy cream. Add the 5.3 ounces of Boursin Garlic and Fine Herbs cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese fully melts and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth.
5. Cook Tortellini: Add the 19 ounces of frozen cheese tortellini to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover the skillet, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 8 to 10 minutes until the tortellini is cooked through and tender.
6. Finish the Dish: Uncover the skillet, stir in 3 ounces of shaved or grated Parmesan cheese and 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes if using. Return the browned smoked sausage to the pan and simmer uncovered until the sauce thickens slightly. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy!

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Notes

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce, stirring occasionally. Microwave reheating is also suitable – stir halfway through to ensure even heating.
• Note: Freshly cooked tortellini remains al dente, but will soften slightly when reheated as leftovers.