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–+ servings
A close-up of sausage spinach tortellini in a creamy sauce, garnished with red pepper flakes.

Sausage Spinach Tortellini

A quick and elegant pasta dish featuring savory sausage, fresh spinach, and tender tortellini in a creamy sauce.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 1 package Refrigerated cheese tortellini 19-20 oz
For the Sauce
  • 1 lb Italian sausage casings removed
  • 1 medium Onion chopped
  • 3 cloves Garlic minced
  • 5 oz Fresh spinach
  • 1.5 cup Heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese grated
  • 1/4 cup Reserved pasta water
  • 1/2 tsp Salt or to taste
  • 1/4 tsp Black pepper or to taste

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large skillet

Method
 

  1. Cook tortellini according to package directions. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining. Drain tortellini and set aside.
  2. While the tortellini cooks, brown the Italian sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain off excess grease.
  3. Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the sausage and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  4. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
  5. Add the fresh spinach to the skillet, a handful at a time, stirring until it wilts.
  6. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce slightly thickens.
  7. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, reserved pasta water, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
  8. Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently to coat.
  9. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

Notes

For a spicier dish, use hot Italian sausage. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic.

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