One Pan Tortellini with Sausage
One Pan Tortellini with Sausage is a quick and tasty meal that brings together cheesy tortellini, savory sausage, and a medley of colorful vegetables all cooked in a single pan.…
Tip: save now, cook later.One Pan Tortellini with Sausage is a quick and tasty meal that brings together cheesy tortellini, savory sausage, and a medley of colorful vegetables all cooked in a single pan. It’s super convenient without skimping on flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying but don’t want to spend forever in the kitchen.
I love making this dish when I need comfort food that’s ready fast. The best part is how everything cooks together, letting the tortellini soak up all those delicious spices and juices from the sausage and veggies. I usually toss in a little garlic and some Italian seasoning to give it that cozy homemade vibe.
Serving it straight from the pan feels casual and fun—no extra dishes to wash and everyone can just dig in. I often sprinkle some fresh Parmesan on top and maybe a handful of chopped basil or parsley to brighten it up. It’s the kind of meal that always gets a thumbs up from family and friends, and I keep coming back to it when I want something simple but full of flavor.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: This adds great flavor and a nice spice level. You can swap it for turkey sausage or ground chicken for a lighter option. If you’re vegetarian, try using plant-based sausage or mushrooms for a meaty texture.
Cheese Tortellini: Fresh or refrigerated tortellini works best here because it cooks quickly. If you can’t find tortellini, use ravioli or even small stuffed pasta shapes as a good substitute.
Marinara Sauce: A good-quality marinara makes a big difference in flavor. Use homemade if you like, or grab a jar that you enjoy. For a twist, try a spicy arrabbiata sauce or add red pepper flakes for extra heat.
Mozzarella Cheese: Fresh mozzarella melts beautifully here, but shredded mozzarella is convenient. You could mix in some Parmesan or provolone for a different cheesy punch.
How Can I Cook the Tortellini Perfectly Without Overcooking or Sticking?
Cooking the tortellini right is key to this dish. Here are some tips to keep it tender and not mushy:
- Use enough liquid (water or broth) to cover the tortellini almost fully – this helps them cook evenly.
- After adding the tortellini, keep the skillet covered to trap steam and cook them gently.
- Stir occasionally but gently—the pasta can stick if left untouched or be torn if you stir too hard.
- Test for doneness a minute before the package’s suggested time to avoid overcooking since the pasta will keep cooking slightly after removing from heat.
Following these simple steps means your tortellini will come out tender, saucy, and perfectly cooked in that one-pan meal.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large nonstick or cast-iron skillet – perfect for cooking the sausage and simmering the tortellini all in one pan without sticking.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – great for breaking up sausage and stirring gently to avoid tearing the pasta.
- Lid for the skillet – essential to trap steam and cook the tortellini evenly.
- Measuring cups – handy for adding the right amount of water or broth and keeping the sauce balanced.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap Italian sausage for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter taste that still provides great protein.
- Add chopped spinach or kale toward the end for a fresh, healthy green boost that wilts nicely in the sauce.
- Mix in sun-dried tomatoes for a sweet, tangy twist that pairs well with the sausage and marinara.
- Use different cheeses like provolone or fontina instead of mozzarella for a richer, creamier melt.
One Pan Tortellini with Sausage
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
- 1 (20 oz) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1 cup sliced pepperoni
- 2 cups marinara sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 1 1/2 cups water or chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 20 minutes to cook, so you’ll have a delicious, comforting dinner ready in about 30 minutes total. Perfect for a busy weeknight when you want something hearty but quick!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Sausage:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and use a spoon to break it into small pieces. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes or until browned and fully cooked.
2. Add Garlic and Sauce:
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until you can smell the aroma. Then pour in the marinara sauce, water (or chicken broth), and sprinkle the Italian seasoning. Mix everything together and add salt and pepper to your taste. Bring it all to a gentle simmer.
3. Cook the Tortellini:
Add the tortellini to the skillet and spread them out so they’re mostly covered by sauce. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes. Check and stir gently now and then to make sure nothing sticks. The tortellini should be tender and most of the liquid absorbed.
4. Add Pepperoni and Cheese:
Stir in half of the pepperoni slices into the mixture. Then sprinkle the shredded mozzarella all over the top and arrange the remaining pepperoni slices on top of the cheese.
5. Melt the Cheese and Serve:
Cover again and cook for another 3-5 minutes until the cheese melts. If you want a bubbly, golden cheese topping, carefully put the pan under the broiler for 1-2 minutes—watch it closely so it doesn’t burn. Finally, sprinkle some fresh parsley or basil on top before serving.
Enjoy your warm, chewy, cheesy one pan tortellini with sausage—comfort food made easy!
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini Instead of Refrigerated?
Yes, you can! Just add a couple extra minutes to the cooking time and keep the pan covered so the frozen tortellini cooks thoroughly. Make sure it’s separated before adding to avoid clumping.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Simply swap out the Italian sausage for a plant-based sausage or use sautéed mushrooms and your favorite veggies. You can also add extra cheese or beans for protein.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
You can cook the sausage and sauce mixture a day ahead and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce, add the tortellini, and cook as directed for a quick meal.
