Name: Sausage Tortellini Pasta Made Easy in 30 Minutes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen); 1 lb Italian sausage (sweet or spicy), casings removed; 1 tbsp olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved; ½ cup tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt & black pepper to taste; 1 cup fresh basil leaves; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; Optional: red pepper flakes for extra kick

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If your evenings are anything like mine—chaotic, hungry, and short on time—this Sausage Tortellini Pasta is about to become your new weeknight hero.

With just one skillet, a handful of simple ingredients, and 30 minutes on the clock, you can serve up a cheesy, hearty dinner that feels like a big comforting hug.

Whether you’re feeding picky kids, a hungry spouse, or just yourself after a long day, this flavorful dish checks all the boxes: fast, satisfying, and easy to clean up.

It’s comfort food without the fuss—and trust me, it’s love at first bite.

Why You’ll Love This Sausage Tortellini Pasta

There’s something magical about a meal that’s quick, cozy, and bursting with flavor—and this sausage tortellini pasta delivers it all.

In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a cheesy tortellini dinner that tastes like it simmered all day.

It’s a one-pan Italian pasta dream: no extra dishes, no fancy steps—just hearty comfort food your whole family will devour (even your pickiest eater).

Ingredients Sausage Tortellini Pasta

Let’s talk about what makes this sausage tortellini pasta so crave-worthy. These pantry-friendly ingredients come together like old friends at a cozy dinner party—each one playing a delicious role.

Here’s what you’ll need (and don’t worry, exact measurements are down below and printable for easy reference):

Cheese tortellini – The heart of the dish. Use fresh for a quicker cook or frozen if that’s what you have.
Italian sausage – Sweet or spicy, your choice! I love spicy for extra flavor, but both are delicious.
Olive oil – For browning and bringing everything together with a silky finish.
Garlic – Fresh cloves are best. They add that aromatic kick that makes your kitchen smell irresistible.
Cherry tomatoes – Sweet and juicy. They burst into the sauce and bring a fresh pop to every bite.
Tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes – Either works beautifully to create a rich, savory base.
Italian seasoning – A classic mix of basil, oregano, and more. It’s the shortcut to big Italian flavor.
Salt and black pepper – Basic, but essential. Season to taste as you go.
Fresh basil leaves – Torn and tossed in at the end for a fragrant, garden-fresh finish.
Parmesan cheese – Grated and sprinkled over top. It melts into everything like a savory snowstorm.
Optional: Red pepper flakes – If you like a little heat, this’ll do the trick. Just a pinch goes a long way.

Feel free to toss in extras like spinach or mushrooms if you have them. I often sneak in veggies without the kids even noticing—mom trick #47!

How to Make Sausage Tortellini Pasta

Making this sausage tortellini pasta is as easy as tossing everything into one skillet and letting the magic happen. This is your go-to Italian sausage skillet meal—quick, hearty, and full of flavor. Here’s how I whip it up on even my busiest nights:

Step 1: Brown the Italian Sausage

Heat a splash of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add your Italian sausage—sweet or spicy—and break it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks.

You’re aiming for golden brown, slightly crispy edges. That’s where all the flavor lives! It should smell savory and mouthwatering by the time it’s done.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Tomatoes

Once the sausage is browned, toss in the minced garlic and halved cherry tomatoes. Stir them around so everything gets coated in those flavorful sausage drippings.

The tomatoes will start to soften and burst, releasing their sweet juices into the pan. The garlic? Oh, it’ll make your kitchen smell like a little Italian bistro.

Step 3: Simmer the Sauce

Pour in your tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes, then sprinkle in the Italian seasoning. Stir everything together until it looks like a cozy, bubbling tomato bath.

Let it simmer for about five minutes. This step lets the flavors meld into a rich, savory base for your cheesy tortellini dinner.

Step 4: Cook the Cheese Tortellini

While the sauce simmers, cook the tortellini according to package instructions. I usually use fresh tortellini since it cooks in just a few minutes.

Drain well, but don’t rinse—it helps the sauce stick beautifully. This is the soul of your hearty tortellini comfort food.

Step 5: Combine and Finish the Dish

Gently fold the cooked tortellini into the skillet with the sausage and tomato mixture. Stir it all together until the pasta is coated in that flavorful sauce.

Add fresh basil leaves and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Want some heat? A pinch of red pepper flakes gives it a little zip. Serve hot and savor every bite of this weeknight pasta with sausage masterpiece.

Tips for Success

Use fresh tortellini for faster cook time—perfect when you’re racing the dinner clock.
Brown the sausage well; those crispy bits pack serious flavor.
Don’t overcook the tortellini—it should be tender, not mushy.
Reserve a splash of pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.
Add basil and Parmesan at the end for the freshest flavor punch.

Equipment Needed

Large skillet – A deep, wide pan is key for this one-pan Italian pasta. Non-stick or cast iron both work great.
Wooden spoon or spatula – For breaking up sausage and stirring everything together.
Medium saucepan – To cook the tortellini separately. Or use the skillet first, then reuse it for the sauce.
Colander – For draining the tortellini without losing a single cheesy bite.
Grater – Fresh Parmesan takes this dish over the top, and grating it yourself makes a big difference.

Sausage Tortellini Pasta Variations

Swap the sausage: Try ground turkey or chicken sausage for a leaner twist. Even plant-based sausage works beautifully for a meatless option.
Add extra veggies: Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to boost the nutrition and color. I sneak in spinach often—it wilts down quickly and blends right in.
Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of ricotta before serving for an ultra-rich, velvety sauce.
Spice it up: Use hot Italian sausage or add more red pepper flakes for a bolder, spicier kick that warms you from the inside out.
Try different tortellini: Use spinach and cheese or even mushroom-stuffed tortellini for a fun flavor twist. There’s no wrong way to tortellini!
Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free tortellini if needed—just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the package directions.
Make it baked: Transfer everything to a baking dish, top with mozzarella, and broil for a few minutes until bubbly and golden. Instant pasta bake magic!

What to Serve with Sausage Tortellini Pasta

Garlic bread: Crispy, buttery slices are perfect for soaking up every bit of that savory sauce.
Simple green salad: A fresh mix with balsamic vinaigrette balances the richness of this cheesy tortellini dinner.
Roasted veggies: Try asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers for a colorful, nutrient-packed side.
Red wine or sparkling water: A glass of Chianti or lemon-infused sparkling water pairs beautifully.
Family-style serving: Pile it high in a big bowl, sprinkle with extra cheese, and garnish with fresh basil.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this a one-pan Italian pasta dish?

A: Yes, absolutely! If you’re using fresh tortellini that cooks quickly, you can boil it right in the same skillet by adding a bit of water or broth to the sauce. It makes cleanup even easier and turns this into a true one-pan Italian pasta meal. I do this when I’m short on time—and dishes!

Q: What’s the best type of tortellini to use?

A: I usually go for cheese tortellini because it pairs so well with the sausage and tomato flavors. But honestly, any kind works! Spinach and cheese, mushroom, even meat-stuffed tortellini will all shine in this weeknight pasta with sausage. Use fresh for speed or frozen if that’s what’s in your freezer.

Q: Can I substitute the sausage for another protein?

A: Definitely. While I love the bold flavor of Italian sausage in this dish, you can swap it for ground turkey, chicken, or even a vegetarian sausage to fit your family’s needs. I’ve even made it with lentils once for a meatless Monday spin—still delicious and just as hearty!

Q: How do I store leftovers of this cheesy tortellini dinner?

A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This cheesy tortellini dinner reheats beautifully in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. It makes a cozy next-day lunch, too!

Q: Is this tomato basil tortellini recipe spicy?

A: It’s as spicy as you want it to be. Using sweet Italian sausage keeps it mild, while spicy sausage or a pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick. I usually serve the flakes on the side so everyone can adjust the heat to their liking in this tomato basil tortellini recipe.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so soul-soothing about a skillet full of sausage tortellini pasta—it’s like wrapping your taste buds in a cozy blanket. This dish brings together bold flavors, creamy comfort, and weeknight ease in the best way possible. Whether you’re cooking for your family or just need a quick dinner that feels like a treat, this one’s a keeper. I’ve made it on rushed Mondays and lazy Sundays, and it never disappoints. So grab that skillet, pour yourself a glass of something lovely, and let this cheesy, savory pasta work its magic on your evening.

Sausage Tortellini Pasta Made Easy in 30 Minutes