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Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli is shown as a delicious and creamy featured image for a food blog recipe.

Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli

This easy weeknight dinner elevates simple ingredients into a flavorful and textured dish. It features browned Italian sausage, tender-crisp broccoli, and cheese tortellini tossed in a creamy garlic parmesan sauce.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian-American
Calories: 650

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound Italian sausage, removed from casings
  • 1 pound cheese tortellini, fresh or frozen
  • 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
  • Red pepper flakes optional
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • large pot
  • Steamer basket or colander
  • Spoon
  • knife
  • cutting board
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • Strainer or colander

Method
 

  1. Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain off any excess grease. Set aside.
  2. Cook the Tortellini: While the sausage is cooking, cook the tortellini according to package directions. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining.
  3. Steam the Broccoli: Steam the broccoli florets until tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes. You can also blanch them in the pasta water during the last minute of the tortellini's cooking time. Drain well.
  4. Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce: In the same skillet (after wiping it clean if necessary), melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant and lightly golden, about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
  5. Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked sausage, broccoli, and tortellini to the skillet with the garlic butter. Toss to combine.
  6. Add the Cream and Cheese: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
  7. Simmer and Thicken: Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to thin it out.
  8. Serve: Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.

Notes

For best results, use high-quality Italian sausage. Browning the sausage well is crucial for developing flavor. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Steaming or blanching the broccoli prevents it from becoming mushy. Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your liking. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.