This creamy Sausage Tortellini with Spinach is a quick, hearty meal perfect for busy weeknights.
Packed with protein from Italian sausage and fiber-rich spinach, it balances indulgent flavors with nourishing ingredients.
The addition of tortellini makes it satisfying and easy to prepare, while a touch of cream provides healthy fats for a rich, comforting sauce.
Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s ideal for everyday cooking or meal prep.
Sausage Tortellini with Spinach
Equipment
- 1 large skillet or sauté pan
- 1 wooden spoon or spatula
- 1 Knife
- 1 Cutting board
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Ingredients
- 1 pound Italian sausage hot or mild
- 1/2 medium onion finely chopped (about 2/3 cup)
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 3 14-ounce cans crushed tomatoes
- 20 ounces refrigerated cheese or spinach tortellini
- 4 ounces baby spinach roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese shredded (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Sausage Base: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart gently with a wooden spoon. Allow it to cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is fully browned and slightly crispy around the edges. This step develops a rich, savory base that will flavor the entire dish.
- Sauté Aromatics: Once the sausage is nearly cooked through, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Stir frequently and cook for about 2–3 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent, and the garlic releases its fragrant aroma. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this can create a bitter taste.
- Add Tomato Sauce: Pour in the crushed tomatoes directly into the skillet with the sausage and aromatics. Stir well to combine, ensuring that the sausage and onions are evenly coated with the tomato sauce. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer over medium heat. This allows the flavors to meld and intensify.
- Incorporate Tortellini: Gently add the refrigerated tortellini into the simmering sauce, spreading them evenly across the skillet. Stir carefully so that each piece is coated with sauce but not broken apart. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet with a lid, and allow the tortellini to cook for 8–10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and test one piece to ensure it is tender and cooked through.
- Wilt the Spinach: Once the tortellini is perfectly cooked, add the roughly chopped baby spinach on top. Stir the spinach gently into the hot sauce for 1–2 minutes until it wilts but still retains its bright green color and fresh texture. This adds a nutritious boost and vibrant color to the dish.
- Creamy Finish: Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream, stirring slowly to combine it evenly with the sauce. Let it warm for 1–2 minutes, creating a smooth, luscious, creamy tomato sauce that clings to each tortellini. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
- Add Cheese (Optional): For extra richness and depth of flavor, sprinkle shredded Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese over the tortellini just before serving. Stir gently to let the cheese melt slightly, creating a savory, cheesy layer that enhances every bite.
- Serve and Enjoy: Spoon the creamy sausage and tortellini mixture into bowls or onto plates, making sure each serving includes plenty of sausage, tender pasta, and vibrant spinach. Serve immediately while warm, and enjoy a comforting, satisfying meal that’s both quick and wholesome.
Notes
- Use your preferred type of tortellini—cheese, spinach, or mushroom-filled varieties all work beautifully.
- Both mild and hot Italian sausage are suitable; hot sausage adds a gentle spice, while mild keeps the dish creamy and comforting.
- If fresh spinach isn’t available, frozen chopped spinach works well—just squeeze out excess water before adding.
- For a lighter version, swap heavy cream for half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative.
- This dish can be prepared entirely in one skillet, making cleanup fast and easy—perfect for weeknight meals.
Chef’s Secrets for Perfect Flavor
The key to a rich, flavorful sauce lies in building layers of taste.
Brown the sausage thoroughly before adding aromatics—this caramelization adds depth and complexity.
Cooking the onions and garlic until translucent and fragrant ensures the sauce has a subtle sweetness and rounded flavor.
Gently folding in the cream at the end rather than at the start prevents curdling and creates a silky, luxurious texture.
Finally, always taste and adjust seasoning at the end to balance acidity and saltiness, especially if using store-bought tortellini, which can sometimes be lightly salted.
Serving Suggestions for Maximum Enjoyment
This dish shines when served hot and fresh from the skillet.
Pair it with a crisp green salad, such as arugula with lemon vinaigrette, to balance the creamy sauce.
Crusty bread or garlic bread makes a perfect accompaniment for soaking up the sauce.
For a heartier meal, serve alongside roasted vegetables or a side of sautéed mushrooms.
Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan or a sprinkle of chili flakes to add an extra layer of flavor and visual appeal.
Storage Tips to Maintain Freshness
Allow any leftovers to cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
The dish will remain fresh for up to 3–4 days.
To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short intervals to avoid overcooking the pasta.
If the sauce thickens too much after refrigeration, add a splash of milk or cream to restore its creamy consistency.
This recipe also freezes well: store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months, then thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, while tortellini is ideal for its stuffed, tender texture, you can substitute with ravioli, gnocchi, or even penne.
Adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type to ensure it doesn’t overcook.
2. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace Italian sausage with plant-based sausage or a medley of roasted vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms.
The creamy tomato sauce still provides richness and flavor.
3. How can I make it spicier?
Use hot Italian sausage or add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes during the simmering step.
You can also finish with a drizzle of chili oil for extra heat.
4. Can I prepare this in advance for meal prep?
Yes, this recipe is excellent for meal prep. Store individual portions in airtight containers for up to 3–4 days.
Reheat gently and add a splash of cream or water to refresh the sauce.
5. Can I lighten the dish without losing flavor?
To reduce calories or fat, use half-and-half or unsweetened plant-based cream instead of heavy cream.
You can also increase the ratio of spinach or other vegetables to boost fiber and nutrients while maintaining the dish’s creamy texture.
