Sausage Tortellini Alfredo is a creamy, comforting dish that brings together tender cheese-filled tortellini and savory browned sausage in a rich, garlicky Alfredo sauce. The sauce is smooth and cheesy, making every bite feel cozy and satisfying. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
I love making this recipe because it’s both simple and so full of flavor. Brown the sausage until crispy, toss it with the tender pasta, and then coat everything in that luscious Alfredo sauce—it all comes together quickly, perfect for a busy weeknight. One tip I always follow is to save a little pasta water to add to the sauce; it helps it stick perfectly to every bite.
My favorite way to serve this is with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a little extra Parmesan on top. It pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or some steamed broccoli to balance out the richness. Whenever I make this, it’s a guaranteed hit with everyone at the table, and sometimes I even find myself sneaking seconds before it’s fully served!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cheese Tortellini: Fresh tortellini works best for a tender bite, but frozen is a handy shortcut. If you prefer, ravioli or other filled pasta make good alternatives. Just watch cooking times!
Italian Sausage: Use mild or spicy depending on your taste. For a lighter option, try turkey sausage or even plant-based sausage. Slice thin so it browns well and cooks evenly.
Heavy Cream: This is what makes your sauce rich and creamy. If you want a lighter version, substitute half the cream with milk and add a little cornstarch to thicken. Coconut cream can work for dairy-free.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts best and adds the classic tangy flavor. Pecorino Romano is a saltier substitute. Avoid pre-grated cheese—it often contains anti-caking agents that don’t melt as smoothly.
How Do You Make a Smooth, Creamy Alfredo Sauce Without It Splitting?
The secret to silky Alfredo sauce is gentle heat and slow stirring. Here’s how I do it:
- After melting butter and garlic, pour in heavy cream and keep the heat on medium-low to avoid boiling.
- Simmer gently for a few minutes to thicken the cream—don’t rush this step.
- When adding Parmesan, add it gradually and stir constantly. This helps cheese melt smoothly.
- Avoid high heat—it can cause the sauce to separate or become grainy.
- If the sauce gets too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen and help it cling to the tortellini.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – for boiling tortellini; make sure it’s big enough to avoid sticking.
- Large skillet or sauté pan – perfect for browning sausage and making the Alfredo sauce all in one pan.
- Spoon or tongs – to stir and toss the pasta and sausage without breaking the tortellini.
- Grater – to shred fresh Parmesan cheese for a creamy, fresh sauce.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate cream, seasoning, and cheese amounts.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap Italian sausage for cooked chicken or shrimp for a different protein that still pairs well with creamy sauce.
- Add sautéed spinach or kale for a pop of color and extra nutrients without overpowering flavor.
- Mix in sun-dried tomatoes to add a slight tang and chewiness that complements the creaminess.
- Stir in a pinch of nutmeg to the sauce for a warm, subtle spice that enhances the Alfredo’s richness.
How to Make Sausage Tortellini Alfredo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy), sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/2 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme)
- Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes for cooking, totaling approximately 25 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and delicious meal perfect for any night!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Tortellini:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Once done, drain the tortellini and set aside.
2. Brown the Sausage:
While the tortellini cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
3. Prepare the Alfredo Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted, sauté the minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Add the dried Italian seasoning and crushed red pepper flakes if using.
4. Thicken the Sauce and Add Cheese:
Let the cream mixture simmer gently for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened. Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese while stirring continuously until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to your taste.
5. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir it into the Alfredo sauce. Then add the drained tortellini and gently fold everything together so the pasta is evenly coated.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Remove from heat, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if you like, and serve immediately while warm. Enjoy your creamy, comforting Sausage Tortellini Alfredo!
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini for This Recipe?
Yes, frozen tortellini works great! Just add an extra minute or two to the cooking time and be sure to thaw slightly if they’re stuck together to prevent clumping.
What Can I Substitute for Italian Sausage?
You can use ground turkey, chicken sausage, or even plant-based sausage for a different twist. Just adjust cooking times accordingly until fully cooked.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk if the sauce thickens too much.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Cook the tortellini and sausage separately, cool, then store in the fridge. Reheat the sauce and combine everything just before serving for the best texture.
