One Pan Tortellini with Sausage is a simple and satisfying dish that brings together tender cheese-filled tortellini, flavorful sausage, and a tasty tomato-based sauce, all cooked in one pan. It’s the perfect meal when you want something comforting without a lot of fuss or cleanup.
I love making this recipe on busy weeknights because it’s quick to throw together and everything cooks right in the same pan, which saves me so much time. The sausage adds a nice spicy kick and depth of flavor that pairs perfectly with the soft, cheesy tortellini. Plus, the sauce gets nice and thick as it cooks, coating each bite so it’s really tasty from start to finish.
My favorite way to enjoy this meal is with a sprinkle of fresh Parmesan cheese and a little crusty bread on the side to soak up all the sauce. It’s always a crowd-pleaser when friends or family come over, and I like that it feels like a cozy, homemade dinner without needing a lot of complicated ingredients or steps.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: This is the flavor star of the dish. I like mild sausage for a gentle spice, but spicy ones work well if you want more heat. For a lighter option, try turkey or chicken sausage—they still add great flavor.
Cheese Tortellini: Fresh refrigerated tortellini cooks quickly and stays tender. If you can’t find it, frozen tortellini is a good substitute—just add a couple extra minutes to cooking time.
Tomatoes and Broth: The canned diced tomatoes give a nice texture and acidity, while the chicken broth helps create a flavorful sauce. For a vegetarian version, swap the broth for veggie broth and use plant-based sausage.
Parmesan and Cream: These make the sauce creamy and rich. If you want a dairy-free version, try a splash of coconut milk and a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
How Do You Cook Everything in One Pan Without Overcooking the Tortellini?
Cooking tortellini right in the sauce with the sausage and tomatoes means timing matters. Here’s how to get tender tortellini without it becoming mushy:
- First, brown the sausage fully to build flavor and remove excess fat.
- Then add onions and garlic for depth before adding liquids.
- Pour in the tomatoes and broth, bring to a simmer before adding tortellini so it cooks evenly.
- Cover the pan to trap steam which helps cook tortellini gently; stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Keep an eye on the tortellini’s texture—check a piece early to avoid overcooking.
- Finish with cream and Parmesan off the heat or on low to avoid curdling and to thicken the sauce.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large deep skillet or sauté pan – perfect for cooking the sausage, sauce, and tortellini all in one place without overflow.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – ideal for breaking up the sausage and stirring everything without scratching your pan.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get your broth and seasonings just right.
- Knife and cutting board – for chopping onions, garlic, and fresh basil easily.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap Italian sausage for ground chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter meal.
- Add fresh spinach or kale in the last few minutes for extra greens and nutrition.
- Mix in sliced mushrooms with onions for an earthier taste and texture.
- Toss in crushed red pepper flakes if you like a bit more heat in your sauce.
How to Make One Pan Tortellini with Sausage
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz / 400g) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 package (about 9 oz / 250g) refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook, so you’ll have a comforting, delicious meal ready in about 25 minutes total. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Sausage:
Heat the olive oil in a large deep skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes.
2. Sauté Onion and Garlic:
Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until soft. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add Tomatoes, Broth, and Seasoning:
Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices, chicken broth, and Italian seasoning. Stir everything to combine, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
4. Cook the Tortellini:
Add the refrigerated cheese tortellini directly into the skillet, stirring gently to submerge the pasta in the liquid. Cover the pan and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tortellini are tender and cooked through.
5. Finish the Sauce:
Remove the lid and stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Cook for another 2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and becomes creamy.
6. Season and Serve:
Taste the dish and add salt and pepper if needed. Sprinkle with chopped fresh basil and extra Parmesan cheese before serving. Enjoy your tasty one-pan tortellini with sausage!
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini Instead of Refrigerated?
Yes! Just add a couple extra minutes to the cooking time and keep an eye on the texture to avoid overcooking. Make sure to gently stir occasionally so the tortellini cooks evenly.
Can I Substitute Sausage with Another Protein?
Absolutely. Ground turkey, chicken sausage, or even plant-based sausage alternatives work well. Adjust cooking time as needed to ensure it’s fully cooked before adding other ingredients.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Yes! Swap the heavy cream for coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative, and use a dairy-free Parmesan substitute or nutritional yeast for the cheesy flavor.
