Are you looking for a quick, delicious dinner that will satisfy the whole family? Look no further than Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli! This dish is a winning combination of creamy, cheesy, and flavorful goodness, topped with fresh broccoli that adds a pop of color and nutrition. The best part? You can whip this up in no time, making it the perfect choice for busy weeknights.
Did you know that tortellini is said to have originated in Italy? It was inspired by the shape of a woman’s navel, which is quite the fun fact for a pasta lover! No matter its history, one thing is certain: Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli is bound to become a staple in your kitchen. Not only is it simple to prepare, but it’s also comforting, making it a dish everyone will love. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let’s dive into why you need to try this delightful recipe!
What is Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli?
So, what exactly is this delightful dish called Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli? Imagine bite-sized pasta pockets filled with cheesy goodness, enveloped in a garlic-infused creamy sauce, and tossed together with fresh broccoli. Isn’t that mouthwatering? The name rolls off the tongue, doesn’t it? It’s almost as inviting as its taste. It’s a dish so good, it could make anyone swoon—after all, ‘the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.’
Ready to make dinner plans? Grab your ingredients and let’s bring this tasty dish to life!
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli
This dish is all about three main highlights that you’ll absolutely love. First, the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce is a flavor sensation! It clings to every bite of tortellini, offering satisfying richness that will leave you craving more. Second, making it at home saves you money compared to dining out. Plus, you get to control what goes into your meal, ensuring it’s pure goodness for you and your family.
Lastly, let’s talk about those toppings! Fresh broccoli adds a vibrant crunch and important nutrients, making this dish not only tasty but wholesome too. If you enjoy easy pasta recipes, check out our Lemon Butter Pasta that offers light and zesty flavors. So, why wait? Let’s jump right into the kitchen to make this incredible recipe!
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli
Quick Overview
Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli is an effortless and satisfying dish! It boasts a velvety sauce that complements the stuffed pasta and seasonal broccoli beautifully, all coming together in under 30 minutes. It’s everything you need for a quick weeknight dinner, leaving everyone at the table smacking their lips in delight!
Key Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli
- Cheese Tortellini: 12 ounces (fresh or frozen)
- Italian Sausage: 1 pound (choose chicken or turkey for lighter options)
- Fresh Broccoli: 2 cups, chopped
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
- Heavy Cream: 1 cup
- Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup, grated
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
- Red Pepper Flakes: Optional, for a kick
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Tortellini: Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the tortellini and cook according to package instructions until they are tender. Once done, drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the Italian sausage and cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it up into small pieces with a spoon. This should take about 6-8 minutes.
- Add the Broccoli and Garlic: Throw in the chopped broccoli and minced garlic. Sauté for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender and bright green.
- Make the Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, mixing it until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Combine Everything: Finally, add the cooked tortellini to the skillet, tossing everything together until the tortellini is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
- Serve: Plate your Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli and enjoy the delightful flavors!
Top Tips for Perfecting Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli
- Ingredient Substitutions: Feel free to substitute the Italian sausage with a vegetarian sausage alternative to create a meat-free version. You can also use a different type of cheese, like Asiago or Pecorino, for a flavor twist!
- Timing Adjustments: Be mindful when cooking the broccoli, as you don’t want it to become mushy. Aim for a vibrant green color while keeping its crunch.
- Common Mistakes: Avoid overcooking the tortellini; a couple of minutes before they are tender works best to prevent mushiness when mixed with the sauce.
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers, store your Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for about 3-4 days. When reheating, consider doing so on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream to revive the sauce’s creaminess. Microwave reheating works too, but be sure to stir halfway for even heating.
So, there you have it! A simple yet utterly delicious recipe that’s bound to become a favorite. Give Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli a try, and delight in the flavors of this comforting meal. Happy cooking!
Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 ounces Cheese Tortellini fresh or frozen
- 1 pound Italian Sausage choose chicken or turkey for lighter options
- 2 cups Fresh Broccoli, chopped
- 4 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 cup Heavy Cream
- 1 cup Parmesan Cheese, grated
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
- Salt and Pepper To taste
- Red Pepper Flakes Optional, for a kick
Instructions
Cooking the Tortellini
- Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the tortellini and cook according to package instructions until they are tender. Once done, drain and set aside.
Sautéing the Sausage
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the Italian sausage and cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it up into small pieces with a spoon. This should take about 6-8 minutes.
Adding Broccoli and Garlic
- Throw in the chopped broccoli and minced garlic. Sauté for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender and bright green.
Making the Sauce
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, mixing it until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Combining Everything
- Finally, add the cooked tortellini to the skillet, tossing everything together until the tortellini is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
Serving
- Plate your Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli and enjoy the delightful flavors!
Leave a Reply