Name: Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini for Cozy Weeknight Dinners
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil (provides fat for sautéing; substitute with vegetable oil if needed.); 1 tablespoon butter (helps form the base of the sauce; can replace with additional olive oil for a dairy-free option.); 3 cloves garlic (enhances the flavor of the sauce; substitute with ½ teaspoon garlic powder if fresh is unavailable.); 1 cup chicken broth (adds depth to the sauce; use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.); 1 cup heavy cream (contributes to the sauce's creaminess; replace with half-and-half for a lighter version.); 1 cup Parmesan cheese (provides a rich, cheesy flavor; nutritional yeast can be used as a vegan substitute.); to taste salt (essential for seasoning.); to taste pepper (essential for seasoning.); to taste red pepper flakes (adds heat; omit if desired.); 12 ounces fresh or chilled tortellini (quick cooking with a tender texture; frozen tortellini is acceptable; adjust cook time.); 1 pound Italian sausage (adds a savory, meaty flavor; use turkey sausage for a lighter option or skip for a vegetarian dish.); 2 cups broccoli (adds nutrition and color; other vegetables like spinach could also work well.); 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (optional but recommended for a pop of color and freshness.)

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As I stirred the pot, the aroma of garlic wafted through the kitchen, creating a cozy ambiance that instantly felt like home. This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for those nights when you need something hearty yet quick. In under 30 minutes, you can whip up a dish that combines cheesy tortellini, savory sausage, and vibrant broccoli, bringing warmth and satisfaction to your table. Plus, it’s highly customizable, allowing you to adapt it for any dietary preference—whether you want to lighten it up or go fully vegetarian. What’s your favorite twist on this delectable pasta dish?

Why Is This Tortellini Recipe So Special?

Simplicity at Its Best: This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a go-to for busy weeknights.

Customizable Delight: Feel free to swap ingredients—turkey sausage for a lighter option or any veggies you love, like spinach or bell peppers!

Decadent Flavor: The combination of creamy sauce, rich sausage, and the fresh crunch of broccoli creates a dish that feels indulgent yet homey.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for kids and adults alike, this dish is guaranteed to please everyone at your dinner table.

Meal Prep Friendly: Leftovers store beautifully and can be reheated, still tasting amazing. For a lighter meal, pair it with a refreshing side salad and garlic bread. Enjoy the cozy comfort of this pasta masterpiece High Protein Pasta

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini Ingredients

Indulge in this cozy dish with simple yet flavorful components.

For the Sauce

Olive Oil – Provides fat for sautéing; substitute with vegetable oil if needed.
Butter – Helps form the base of the sauce; can replace with additional olive oil for a dairy-free option.
Garlic – Enhances the flavor of the sauce; substitute with ½ teaspoon garlic powder if fresh is unavailable.
Chicken Broth – Adds depth to the sauce; use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
Heavy Cream – Contributes to the sauce’s creaminess; replace with half-and-half for a lighter version.
Parmesan Cheese – Provides a rich, cheesy flavor in this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini; nutritional yeast can be used as a vegan substitute.
Salt & Pepper – Essential for seasoning; use according to taste preferences.
Red Pepper Flakes – Adds heat; omit if desired.

For the Pasta and Veggies

Fresh/Chilled Tortellini – Quick cooking with a tender texture; frozen tortellini is acceptable; adjust cook time.
Italian Sausage – Adds a savory, meaty flavor; use turkey sausage for a lighter option or skip for a vegetarian dish.
Broccoli – Adds nutrition and color; other vegetables like spinach could also work well.

For Garnish

Fresh Parsley – Optional but recommended for a pop of color and freshness.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini

Step 1: Cook the Sausage
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook for about 5–7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it’s browned and cooked through. Once done, transfer the sausage to a plate, leaving the flavorful drippings in the skillet.

Step 2: Boil the Tortellini
Bring a pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Carefully add the fresh or chilled tortellini and cook according to the package directions, typically 3–5 minutes for fresh tortellini. Once they float to the surface and are tender, drain them, and set aside while you prepare the sauce.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic and Broccoli
In the same skillet used for the sausage, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Then, add chopped broccoli and cook for an additional 3–4 minutes until it’s tender yet bright green, stirring frequently.

Step 4: Create the Sauce
Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth and 1 cup of heavy cream to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer while whisking continuously. Gradually add 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts and creates a smooth sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes to taste.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Return the cooked sausage and draining tortellini to the skillet with the sauce. Gently toss everything together until the tortellini and sausage are well coated in the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. Let it simmer for about 2–3 minutes to meld the flavors, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Remove the skillet from the heat and serve your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini in bowls. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and additional grated Parmesan cheese for an extra touch. Enjoy your warm, comforting dish right away!

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini Variations

Feel free to unleash your culinary creativity and personalize this dish to suit your taste buds!

Vegetarian Option: Use a plant-based sausage alternative and vegetable broth for a delightful vegetarian version.
Cheese Lovers: Craving an extra cheesy bite? Mix in some ricotta or mozzarella for a melty twist that takes comfort food to the next level.
Heat It Up: Add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick that will excite your palate.
Texture Twist: Swap broccoli for roasted cauliflower or add sautéed mushrooms for an added earthy flavor and texture.
Creaminess Variations: For a lighter dish, substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt or a cashew cream; both will yield a creamy richness without packing on the calories.
Alternative Pastas: Experiment with different types of pasta like ravioli or penne to keep things interesting. Each shape brings a unique texture to your dish.
Herb Infusion: Spice things up with fresh herbs. Basil or rosemary can add a fragrant dimension, creating an irresistible aroma.
Flavor Boost: Stir in a tablespoon of Garlic Lemon Butter or Lemon Garlic Butter for a zesty upgrade to the sauce that brightens every bite!

How to Store and Freeze Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore creamiest texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, separate the sauce and tortellini. Freeze each in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: Reheat on low heat to avoid sauce separation, stirring occasionally. If the sauce thickens, add a touch of reserved pasta water or broth for a creamy consistency.

Meal Prep: Pre-cook ingredients like sausage and broccoli ahead of time for an effortless weeknight dinner. Simply combine with the sauce and tortellini when ready to serve.

What to Serve with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini

Elevate your dinner table with delightful pairings that complement the comforting flavors of this irresistible pasta dish.

Garlic Bread: Warm, crusty slices slathered in garlic butter provide a perfect tool for soaking up every drop of the creamy sauce.
Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with tangy dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the tortellini. A sprinkle of croutons adds crunch.
Steamed Asparagus: This tender green vegetable enhances your meal with its vibrant color and mild earthiness, balancing the heavier main dish beautifully.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy, caramelized Brussels sprouts bring a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the creamy garlic sauce.
Red Wine: A glass of dry red wine, like Chianti, adds depth and complements the savory notes of Italian sausage in the dish.
Lemon Sorbet: A light, tart sorbet serves as a refreshing palate cleanser after the rich and hearty tortellini, finishing your meal on a bright note.
Baked Zucchini Fries: Crunchy and flavorful, these oven-baked fries provide a healthy alternative to classic sides while still being deliciously indulgent.
Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous seasoned with fresh herbs adds a lovely texture and lightness, making it a delightful complement to the creamy pasta.

Make Ahead Options

These Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can pre-cook the sausage and broccoli up to 3 days in advance, storing them in the refrigerator to enhance the flavors. Additionally, cook the tortellini and toss them with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, simply reheat the sausage and broccoli in a skillet with the prepared sauce before adding the tortellini. This ensures that every bite is just as delicious as when freshly made, making your busy weeknights a breeze!

Expert Tips for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini

Balancing Richness: Adjust the cream and cheese amounts if making a lighter vegetarian version of the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini; this helps maintain flavor while reducing calories.

Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh garlic and freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture; pre-packaged versions can lose much of their profile.

Cooking Time Matters: Don’t overcook the tortellini; they should be tender yet firm to the bite. Overcooked tortellini can become mushy and lose their structure.

Proper Sautéing: When sautéing garlic, stay vigilant! It can burn quickly, turning bitter and impacting the entire sauce.

Vegetable Choices: Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies! Broccoli is a great choice, but spinach or zucchini could add lovely variety and nutrition.

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli Recipe FAQs

What type of tortellini should I use for this recipe?
I recommend using fresh or chilled tortellini for the best texture and quick cooking time. If you prefer, you can also use frozen tortellini; just remember to adjust the cooking time according to package instructions. Dried tortellini can work in a pinch but will require more liquid and longer cooking.

How should I store leftovers of my creamy garlic parmesan tortellini?
Absolutely! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, do so gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to bring back the creaminess and flavor.

Can I freeze the creamy garlic parmesan tortellini?
Yes, you can! For the best results, it’s important to freeze the sauce separately from the tortellini. Place each in airtight containers, and they’ll keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating to ensure even warming.

What if my sauce is too thick?
If your creamy sauce ends up too thick, don’t worry! Simply add a splash of reserved pasta water or chicken broth while gently stirring over low heat. This will help thin it out, restoring that velvety consistency we all love.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Very much so! To adapt this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini recipe for a vegetarian option, you can replace the Italian sausage with a plant-based sausage or simply omit it altogether. Additionally, using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth will keep the flavors rich without sacrificing deliciousness.

How can I enhance the flavors if I’m concerned about allergies?
If you or someone in your household has allergies or dietary restrictions, there are plenty of alternatives! You can use gluten-free tortellini or substitute the cream with dairy-free alternatives like coconut cream. When it comes to cheese, nutritional yeast is a fantastic option for a cheesy flavor without the dairy. Just tweak the seasonings to your preference.