Name: Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini: Quick Comfort in Every Bite
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 pack Tortellini (Use fresh for quick cook time; frozen can also work.); 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (Can swap for canola or vegetable oil.); 2 tablespoons Butter (Margarine is a dairy-free alternative.); 3 cloves Garlic (Use fresh cloves; substitute with ½ teaspoon garlic powder if needed.); 1 cup Heavy Cream (Half-and-half is a lighter option.); 1 cup Chicken Broth (For a vegetarian option, use vegetable broth.); 1 cup Parmesan Cheese (Opt for grated for easier melting; nutritional yeast for vegan.); to taste Salt; to taste Pepper; to taste teaspoons Red Pepper Flakes (Optional for spice.); 1 pound Italian Sausage (Turkey sausage or a vegetarian substitute can be used.); 2 cups Fresh Broccoli (Frozen can work but adjust cooking time.); to taste Fresh Parsley (Dried parsley can be used in a pinch.)

As I stirred a pot of bubbling water, the aroma of rich garlic and parmesan filled my kitchen, instantly transporting me to a cozy Italian bistro. This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli recipe brings a touch of indulgence to any weeknight meal, and the best part? It’s ready in under 30 minutes! With its velvety sauce, savory sausage, and vibrant broccoli, it's not just a dish—it's a warm hug on a plate. Plus, the beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility; whether you're feeding a meat-loving crowd or looking for a vegetarian option, you can easily customize it to fit your palate. Curious how to whip up this comforting classic? Let’s dive in!

Why is this tortellini recipe a must-try?

Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something delicious.

Creamy Indulgence: The velvety garlic parmesan sauce is so rich and satisfying, you'll want to savor every bite.

Customizable Delight: Feel free to substitute ingredients like the sausage or pasta type; this versatility caters to everyone at your table.

Wholesome Goodness: Fresh broccoli adds a pop of color and nutrition, balancing the dish while keeping it hearty.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether cooking for family or hosting friends, this is a guaranteed hit that will quickly become a favorite. Consider pairing it with Garlic Parmesan Zucchini for a complete meal!

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini Ingredients

• Dive into the delicious details!

For the Pasta

Tortellini – Use fresh for a quick cook time; frozen can also work but may require longer.

For the Sauce

Olive Oil – Essential for sautéing; can swap for canola or vegetable oil if necessary.
Butter – Adds richness; margarine is a dairy-free alternative.
Garlic – Fresh cloves elevate flavor; substitute with garlic powder (½ teaspoon) if in a pinch.
Heavy Cream – Creates the beloved creamy texture; half-and-half is a lighter option.
Chicken Broth – The base of the sauce; for a vegetarian twist, use vegetable broth.
Parmesan Cheese – The star for flavor; opt for grated for easier melting, or nutritional yeast for a vegan version.
Salt and Pepper – Season to taste; essential for balancing the flavors.
Red Pepper Flakes – Add a kick! Omit if you prefer no spice.

For the Add-Ins

Italian Sausage – Offers savory flavor; turkey sausage or a vegetarian substitute can be used.
Fresh Broccoli – Brings nutrition and color; frozen can work but adjust cooking time.

For Garnish

Fresh Parsley – Complements the dish beautifully; dried parsley can serve in a pinch.

With these ingredients on hand, you'll be well on your way to creating your own delicious Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini

Step 1: Sauté the Sausage
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add crumbled Italian sausage, cooking for 5–7 minutes until browned and no longer pink. Use a spatula to break the sausage into bite-sized pieces for even cooking. Once browned, remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside, leaving the flavorful drippings in the pan.

Step 2: Cook the Tortellini
In a separate pot, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the tortellini and cook according to package directions, typically for 3–5 minutes if using fresh pasta. Drain the tortellini when it’s al dente, then set aside. The pasta should be tender but firm to the bite, perfect for soaking up the creamy garlic sauce later.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Broccoli
In the same skillet where you cooked the sausage, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring frequently to avoid burning. Then, toss in 2 cups of fresh broccoli florets, cooking for about 3–4 minutes until the broccoli becomes tender and vibrant green, absorbing all those savory flavors.

Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Sauce
Next, stir in 1 cup of chicken broth and 1 cup of heavy cream into the skillet with the broccoli. Increase the heat slightly and let the mixture simmer for 2–3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken gently. Gradually whisk in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until it melts smoothly into the sauce, creating a rich, creamy coating. Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes to elevate the flavor.

Step 5: Combine and Simmer
Add the sautéed sausage and cooked tortellini back into the skillet, gently tossing everything together to coat in the creamy garlic parmesan sauce. Let the mixture simmer for an additional 2–3 minutes, allowing all the ingredients to meld beautifully. If the sauce appears too thick, you can add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Plate your delicious Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini, topping it with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately with extra grated Parmesan on the side for those who love an extra cheesy finish. Enjoy the comforting warmth of this satisfying dish, perfect for any family gathering or cozy weeknight meal.

Make Ahead Options

These Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the sausage and sauté the broccoli up to 3 days in advance and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The sauce can also be made ahead; just let it cool before sealing it tightly and refrigerating for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat the sausage and broccoli in a skillet, add the sauce, and incorporate the freshly cooked tortellini. This way, you’ll have a satisfying meal with minimal effort—just as delicious as when made fresh!

What to Serve with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini

There’s nothing like a comforting meal to make your weeknight bright, and pairing options can elevate your dinner experience.

Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce, its crunch and warmth make it irresistible.
Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine with tangy dressing and crunchy croutons adds a refreshing balance to the richness of the tortellini.
Roasted Vegetables: Choose seasonal veggies for a color pop and a satisfying crunch, enhancing both flavor and nutrition.
Steamed Green Beans: Tender green beans bring vibrancy and complement the dish's creamy texture, creating a harmonious plate.
Sangria: A chilled glass of fruity sangria beautifully offsets the dish’s richness, refreshing your palate.
Tiramisu: For dessert, this classic Italian treat creates a sweet finish to your meal, echoing the dish’s comforting tone.

Imagine the comforting aroma of garlic bread mingling with the rich scent of your creamy garlic parmesan tortellini, as you gather around the table with loved ones, ready for a delightful evening.

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini Variations

Feel free to get creative and personalize this creamy dish to suit your tastes and dietary needs!

Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan for rich flavor without the dairy.
Vegetarian: Omit the sausage or swap it for sautéed mushrooms or lentils to maintain that satisfying texture and protein.
Hearty Twist: Incorporate spinach or kale for added nutrients and a vibrant pop of color alongside your broccoli.
Spicy Kick: Add more red pepper flakes or toss in some diced jalapeños for a delightful heat that elevates the dish.
Flavored Pasta: Switch tortellini for spinach or tomato-flavored varieties for a fun take that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
Gourmet Touch: Finish with a sprinkle of truffle oil or shaved black truffles for an upscale twist that’ll impress guests.
Short on Time?: Use store-bought rotisserie chicken instead of sausage for a quick protein boost that requires no additional cooking.
Load Up on Veggies: Feel free to add bell peppers, zucchini, or snap peas to sneak in even more colorful, crunchy veggies!

With these variations, you can enjoy a different take on your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini every time, ensuring it never gets boring. For a complementary side, consider pairing it with Garlic Parmesan Roasted or Cheesy Garlic Chicken for an extraordinary feast!

How to Store and Freeze Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Let the pasta cool completely to preserve its creamy texture.

Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze individual components separately (sausage, broccoli, and sauce) for optimal quality, lasting up to 2 months.

Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to revive the sauce. Avoid microwaving to prevent separation.

Make-Ahead: You can prepare the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini components in advance and keep them refrigerated; simply combine and heat when ready to serve!

Expert Tips for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini

Prep Ahead: Cook the sausage and broccoli beforehand to streamline your cooking process. This will help you serve dinner in record time!
Watch the Heat: When reheating leftovers, avoid the microwave to prevent the sauce from separating. Gently warm on the stove with a little added liquid for best results.
Perfect Tortellini: Don’t overcook the tortellini; it should be tender yet firm. Follow package instructions carefully for a delightful texture with your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini.
Customize to Taste: Feel free to switch up any ingredients, whether it's the sausage type or using different pasta shapes, to cater to your family’s preferences.
Elevate Flavor: Enhance the dish with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving for an added layer of brightness.

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe broccoli for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for fresh broccoli crowns with tight, firm florets and vibrant green color. Avoid any with yellowing or dark spots, as these indicate age. Fresh broccoli adds both nutrition and visual appeal to your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini!

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store any leftover Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let the pasta cool completely before sealing to maintain its creamy texture.

Can I freeze the tortellini for later use?
Certainly! To freeze, separate the components: sausage, broccoli, and sauce. Place them in airtight containers or freezer bags. They can be safely stored for up to 2 months. When you're ready to enjoy, simply reheat on the stovetop with a splash of liquid!

My sauce turned out too thick; how can I fix it?
No worries! If you've found your sauce is too thick, simply add a splash of the reserved pasta water while gently stirring it over low heat. This will help loosen the sauce back to a delightful creamy consistency, ensuring every bite of your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini is perfect!

Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, it is! To make this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini vegetarian, simply omit the sausage or replace it with a plant-based alternative. You can also adjust the broth to vegetable broth for a fully vegetarian-friendly dish that still packs great flavor!

Can I use frozen tortellini instead of fresh?
Definitely! Frozen tortellini can be used, but keep in mind the cooking time may vary. Look for package instructions and adjust your boiling time accordingly—it generally takes a little longer than fresh. Enjoy your comforting pasta dish, no matter the tortellini type!