One Pan Tortellini with Sausage is a hearty and flavorful meal that combines the comfort of homemade tortellini with the savory flavor of Italian sausage. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner, as it's quick to prepare and cooks in just one pan, making cleanup a breeze. The combination of cheese-filled tortellini, spicy Italian sausage, and fragrant aromatics creates a rich and satisfying dish that's sure to become a family favorite. With its easy-to-follow instructions and customizable ingredients, this recipe is a great starting point for creating multiple variations to suit your taste preferences.
Here is the complete recipe for One Pan Tortellini with Sausage:
Ingredients:
* 1 pound sweet or hot Italian sausage, casings removed
* 1 onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 red bell pepper, chopped
* 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 teaspoon dried basil
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* Salt and pepper, to taste
* 1 pound fresh cheese-filled tortellini
* 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
* Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
* Optional: 1 cup sliced mushrooms, 1 cup sliced zucchini, 1/4 cup chopped fresh spinach
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and red bell pepper to the skillet and cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the crushed tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce the heat to medium-low and add the tortellini to the skillet. Cook, covered, for 10-12 minutes or until the pasta is al dente.
6. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the mozzarella cheese until melted. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, topped with chopped parsley if desired. If using, stir in the sliced mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 40-45 minutes
Variations:
* Add the sliced mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach to the skillet with the vegetables for added flavor and nutrition.
* Substitute sweet Italian sausage with hot Italian sausage for an extra spicy kick.
* Add the diced ham or cooked bacon to the skillet with the sausage for added protein.
* Use different types of cheese, such as ricotta or parmesan, for a unique flavor profile.
* Serve with crusty bread or garlic bread for a satisfying side dish.