Easy Italian Sausage Tortellini

Highlighted under: Global Taste Adventures

A quick and delicious recipe for Easy Italian Sausage Tortellini that brings the flavors of Italy to your table in just minutes!

Anna

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2025-12-06T19:05:54.935Z

This Easy Italian Sausage Tortellini is a family favorite that combines savory sausage with cheesy tortellini in a rich tomato sauce.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy preparation perfect for weeknight dinners
  • Rich and flavorful Italian taste in every bite
  • Comforting and satisfying dish that everyone will enjoy

A Taste of Italy at Home

Bringing the authentic flavors of Italy to your kitchen has never been easier. With this Easy Italian Sausage Tortellini recipe, you can create a mouthwatering dish that rivals what you'd find in a cozy Italian restaurant. The combination of savory sausage, rich marinara sauce, and tender cheese tortellini creates a harmonious blend of flavors that will transport you straight to the heart of Italy.

This recipe is not only about taste; it's also about convenience. Whether you're a busy parent, a student, or simply someone who appreciates a quick meal, this dish can be prepared in under 30 minutes. That's right! You can enjoy a taste of Italy without spending hours in the kitchen, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Easy Italian Sausage Tortellini is incredibly versatile, making it suitable for a variety of occasions. Whether you're hosting a dinner party, enjoying a family meal, or just treating yourself to a comforting dish, this recipe fits the bill. The rich flavors and satisfying ingredients will impress your guests and leave everyone asking for seconds.

You can also customize this dish to suit your preferences. Add some sautéed vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for a nutritious boost, or spice it up with crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. The possibilities are endless, and you can easily make this dish your own while still enjoying the traditional Italian essence.

Meal Prep and Storage Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers, you're in luck! This Easy Italian Sausage Tortellini stores beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep. Simply place the cooled dish in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.

For those who love to plan ahead, consider making a double batch and freezing half. To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container. It can be kept in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to eat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as desired. This way, a delicious Italian meal is always just a few minutes away!

Ingredients

For the Tortellini

  • 12 oz cheese tortellini
  • 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
  • 1 cup marinara sauce
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Tortellini

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the cheese tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Brown the Sausage

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.

Combine Ingredients

Once the sausage is cooked, stir in the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes.

Mix Tortellini and Serve

Add the drained tortellini to the skillet and toss to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Garnish and Enjoy

Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves.

Pairing Suggestions

To elevate your dining experience, consider pairing this Easy Italian Sausage Tortellini with a fresh garden salad. A simple mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette will complement the richness of the dish perfectly. The refreshing salad balances the hearty flavors, making for a satisfying meal.

A glass of red wine, such as Chianti or a robust Merlot, also pairs wonderfully with this dish. The wine's acidity can cut through the richness of the sausage and cheese, enhancing the overall dining experience. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon is a refreshing alternative.

Variations to Try

While this recipe features Italian sausage, feel free to experiment with different proteins. Ground turkey or chicken can be great substitutes for a lighter version of the dish, while keeping the same rich flavors. For a vegetarian option, try swapping the sausage for sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables, and add a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

You can also play with the sauce! While marinara is classic, experimenting with pesto or Alfredo sauce can yield delicious results. Each variation brings a unique twist to the dish, allowing you to enjoy it in new ways while still keeping it simple and quick.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen tortellini?

Yes, you can use frozen tortellini. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

→ What can I substitute for Italian sausage?

You can substitute with ground turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the sausage and add more vegetables or a plant-based protein.

Easy Italian Sausage Tortellini

A quick and delicious recipe for Easy Italian Sausage Tortellini that brings the flavors of Italy to your table in just minutes!

Prep Time10 minutes
Cooking Duration20 minutes
Overall Time30 minutes

Created by: Anna

Recipe Type: Global Taste Adventures

Skill Level: Beginner

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

For the Tortellini

  1. 12 oz cheese tortellini
  2. 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
  3. 1 cup marinara sauce
  4. 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  5. 1 tbsp olive oil
  6. 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  7. Salt and pepper to taste
  8. Fresh basil leaves for garnish

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the cheese tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 02

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.

Step 03

Once the sausage is cooked, stir in the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes.

Step 04

Add the drained tortellini to the skillet and toss to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 05

Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 380 kcal
  • Total Fat: 26g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 195mg
  • Sodium: 85mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 4g
  • Protein: 18g