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–+ servings
A close-up overhead view of a bowl filled with sausage spinach tortellini in a creamy sauce, sprinkled with red pepper flakes.

Sausage Spinach Tortellini

A quick and elegant pasta dish featuring sausage, spinach, and tortellini in a creamy sauce.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Dinner, Lunch
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 1 package refrigerated cheese tortellini 19-20 oz
For the Sauce
  • 1 lb Italian sausage casings removed
  • 1 medium onion chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 5 oz fresh spinach
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes optional
  • to taste salt and black pepper

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large skillet

Method
 

  1. Cook tortellini according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
  2. While tortellini cooks, brown the Italian sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Break up the meat as it cooks. Drain off excess grease.
  3. Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the sausage and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  4. Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Add the fresh spinach to the skillet, a handful at a time, stirring until it wilts.
  6. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce begins to thicken.
  7. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  8. Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat evenly.
  9. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

Notes

For a lighter sauce, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, but the sauce may not be as rich.

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