Sausage Tortellini Alfredo is a creamy, comforting dish that brings together tender cheese-filled tortellini and flavorful Italian sausage in a rich Alfredo sauce. The sauce, made with garlic, butter, and plenty of Parmesan cheese, coats every bite perfectly, making it a favorite for pasta lovers who want something satisfying but simple.
I really love making this dish on nights when I want something quick but special. The sausage adds a nice, savory kick to the creamy sauce, and the tortellini cooks in just minutes, so everything comes together fast. I like to brown the sausage a little extra to bring out its flavor before mixing it all with the sauce—it’s a little trick that makes the whole dish taste even better.
One of my favorite ways to enjoy Sausage Tortellini Alfredo is with a side of garlic bread and a crisp green salad. It feels like a restaurant meal but is so easy to make at home. Plus, it’s a great dish to share with family or friends because everyone always asks for seconds! It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with comfort, making it a go-to for cozy dinners.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cheese Tortellini: Fresh tortellini cooks fast and tastes great, but frozen works just as well. For a lighter option, try whole wheat or spinach tortellini.
Italian Sausage: I like using mild sausage, but spicy adds a nice kick. You can swap with ground chicken or turkey for a leaner meal. Removing casings helps break the sausage into bite-size pieces.
Heavy Cream & Milk: These create the creamy Alfredo sauce. For a lighter sauce, use half-and-half or substitute milk with a splash of half-and-half. Avoid low-fat milk, as the sauce won’t be as rich.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts smoother and tastes better than pre-grated. If you can’t find Parmesan, Pecorino Romano is a good sharper swap.
How Do You Make a Creamy, Smooth Alfredo Sauce Without It Breaking?
Alfredo sauce can separate if overheated or mixed too fast. Here’s how to get it creamy every time:
- Cook the sauce on medium to low heat, avoiding rapid boiling.
- Add the heavy cream and milk together, and gently simmer to thicken.
- Stir in the cheese slowly off the heat or on very low, so it melts evenly without clumping.
- Keep stirring gently and constantly once cheese is added to maintain a smooth texture.
Also, don’t rush the process. Taking your time with the sauce makes it silky and perfect for coating the tortellini and sausage.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – to boil the tortellini quickly and evenly.
- Large skillet or sauté pan – perfect for browning sausage and making the creamy Alfredo sauce in one pan.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – great for stirring without scratching your cookware.
- Grater – for fresh Parmesan cheese, it melts smoothly and tastes much better than pre-grated.
- Colander – to drain the cooked tortellini easily and quickly.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap Italian sausage for grilled chicken to keep it lighter but still hearty and tasty.
- Add sautéed spinach or kale near the end for a fresh, healthy boost of color and nutrients.
- Mix in sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy twist that pairs well with creamy Alfredo.
- Use smoked mozzarella or provolone instead of Parmesan for a milder, creamier cheese flavor.
How to Make Sausage Tortellini Alfredo?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Pasta and Sausage:
- 1 lb (450g) cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed and sliced or crumbled
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For The Sauce:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Additional Parmesan cheese (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 25 minutes in total: around 10 minutes for boiling the tortellini and about 15 minutes for preparing the sausage and creamy Alfredo sauce. It’s a perfect quick and cozy meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Tortellini:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook following the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Brown the Sausage:
While the tortellini cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sausage and cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and fully cooked. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Make the Alfredo Sauce:
In the same skillet, turn the heat to medium. Add the butter and chopped onion. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, if using, and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring to combine. Let the mixture simmer gently for 3–5 minutes to thicken slightly. Then stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and freshly ground pepper to taste.
4. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked sausage and drained tortellini to the skillet. Gently toss everything together so the tortellini and sausage are well coated in the creamy Alfredo sauce. Let it cook for another 1–2 minutes to warm through and let the flavors blend.
5. Serve:
Turn off the heat, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top, and add extra Parmesan if you like. Serve the Sausage Tortellini Alfredo hot. It goes wonderfully with garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to cook the frozen tortellini according to the package instructions, usually adding a minute or two to the cooking time. No need to thaw beforehand—just cook straight from frozen and drain well before adding to the sauce.
What Can I Substitute for Italian Sausage?
You can swap Italian sausage for ground chicken, turkey, or even plant-based sausage to make it lighter or vegetarian-friendly. Adjust cooking time accordingly until fully cooked and browned.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. You might want to add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.
Can I Make Sausage Tortellini Alfredo Ahead of Time?
Yes! Prepare everything except combining the tortellini with the sauce and sausage. Store components separately in the fridge for up to 2 days, then warm the sauce and sausage gently and toss with freshly cooked tortellini just before serving for the best texture.
