If you’re looking for a cozy, satisfying meal that whips up in no time, the One-Pan Tortellini and Sausage Skillet Dinner Recipe is your new best friend. This dish blends tender, cheesy tortellini with savory Italian sausage and vibrant spinach, all cooked together in one pan for maximum flavor and minimal cleanup. Brightened with lemon zest and finished with a sprinkle of Pecorino Romano, it’s the perfect weeknight dinner that feels special without any fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a key role in building layers of flavor, melding together textures, and creating that beautiful balance of fresh and hearty. From the mild Italian sausage’s rich depth to the fresh spinach’s pop of green, each element is essential for this dish’s success.
- 20 oz fresh cheese tortellini: Choose fresh for that pillow-soft, cheesy center that makes this meal irresistible.
- 1 lb ground mild Italian sausage: Adds a savory, slightly spiced punch to the base of the skillet.
- 2 TBSP olive oil: The perfect sautéing fat that gives a gentle richness without overpowering flavors.
- 1/2 red onion, diced: Brings a sweet, aromatic undertone when sautéed, creating a flavorful foundation.
- 2 large garlic cloves, minced: Garlic infuses warmth and depth, awakening the dish with its inviting aroma.
- 4 cups baby spinach, ribboned or torn: Adds vibrant color and a light, fresh contrast to the meaty sausage.
- 1 cup chicken broth, more if needed: Helps the tortellini cook tender and forms a savory sauce base.
- Pinch of sea salt: Enhances all the natural flavors without making the dish taste salty.
- Cracked black pepper: Adds just the right amount of subtle heat and complexity.
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Pecorino Romano or Parmigiano-Reggiano: The finishing touch with salty, nutty notes for a perfect cheesy boost.
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced: Brightens everything with zesty freshness and a hint of acidity to balance richness.
How to Make One-Pan Tortellini and Sausage Skillet Dinner Recipe
Step 1: Heat the oil and sauté the onion
Start by warming the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is shimmering, toss in the diced red onion. Let it sauté for about two minutes until it softens and releases its sweet aroma. This step builds a delicious flavor base that sets the tone for the whole dish.
Step 2: Cook the sausage and garlic
Next, add the ground mild Italian sausage to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it apart and cook it for about five minutes until it’s mostly browned and nicely caramelized. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute just until it becomes fragrant—be careful not to burn it. This step fills your kitchen with a mouthwatering scent you’ll love.
Step 3: Simmer and cook the tortellini
Pour the chicken broth into the skillet, then gently nestle the fresh tortellini right into the sausage mixture. Bring everything to a gentle simmer and cover the skillet with a lid. Let it cook for about four minutes or according to the tortellini package instructions, until the pasta is tender and has soaked up some of those savory flavors. This one-pan technique makes everything come together beautifully.
Step 4: Add spinach and cheese
Remove the lid and stir in the ribboned spinach along with the grated Pecorino Romano or Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese and lemon zest. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the spinach softens just enough to wilt without losing its vibrant green color. This step adds freshness and a creamy, cheesy finish.
Step 5: Finish and serve
Take the skillet off the heat and squeeze fresh lemon juice over everything. Season with cracked black pepper and add extra cheese if desired. Serve immediately while it’s warm and delicious. This final touch of lemon juice wakes up the flavors, making every bite bright and satisfying.
How to Serve One-Pan Tortellini and Sausage Skillet Dinner Recipe
Garnishes
A few extra touches can elevate your One-Pan Tortellini and Sausage Skillet Dinner Recipe. Fresh basil leaves, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat kick, or a drizzle of high-quality extra-virgin olive oil can add another layer of flavor and make the dish look irresistibly inviting.
Side Dishes
This hearty skillet recipe pairs beautifully with simple, complementary sides like a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or some crunchy garlic bread to soak up the tasty sauce. Roasted vegetables or a light soup would also round out the meal perfectly without overwhelming the palate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy dinner party, serve the One-Pan Tortellini and Sausage Skillet Dinner Recipe straight from the skillet to the table, garnished with parmesan shavings and lemon wedges. Or portion it into individual shallow bowls topped with fresh herbs and a sprinkle of cheese for a restaurant-style presentation at home.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Because this dish has pasta and sausage, it’s best enjoyed within that time to maintain freshness and texture. Make sure to cool it completely before refrigerating to preserve flavor.
Freezing
This recipe freezes well if you want to keep it longer. Transfer cooled leftovers to a freezer-safe container and store for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat the skillet dinner gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce if it seems dry. You can also microwave individual portions, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. Freshen it up with an extra squeeze of lemon and a little grated cheese.
FAQs
Can I use other types of sausage for this recipe?
Absolutely! If you prefer something spicier, try hot Italian sausage or turkey sausage for a leaner option. Just adjust cooking times slightly and taste for seasoning as sausage flavors vary.
What can I substitute for fresh tortellini?
If fresh tortellini isn’t available, frozen tortellini works well with a couple extra minutes of cooking. Avoid dry tortellini as it will require different cooking methods and can affect the dish’s texture.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Traditional tortellini contains wheat gluten, so this particular recipe isn’t gluten-free. For a gluten-free version, look for specialty gluten-free tortellini or pasta alternatives compatible with your dietary needs.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Sure! Replace the sausage with a plant-based sausage or hearty mushrooms for a vegetarian twist. The spinach and cheese combination keeps it flavorful and satisfying.
How can I make this dish creamier?
If you love a creamier skillet, stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half during the last step before adding the spinach. This adds extra richness without overpowering the bright lemon notes.
Final Thoughts
You’ve got a winner here with the One-Pan Tortellini and Sausage Skillet Dinner Recipe—comforting, quick, and bursting with flavors that feel like a warm hug on a plate. It’s the kind of recipe that quickly becomes a staple because it’s simple to make yet impressive every time. Trust me, once you try it, your weeknight dinners just got a delicious upgrade that everyone will ask for again and again.
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One-Pan Tortellini and Sausage Skillet Dinner Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This one-pan tortellini and sausage skillet dinner is a quick, flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights. Combining savory Italian sausage, fresh cheese tortellini, and vibrant baby spinach, all cooked together in a single skillet with olive oil, garlic, and zesty lemon, it offers a comforting yet fresh dish ready in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients
Meat and Cheese
- 1 lb ground mild Italian sausage
- 20 oz fresh cheese tortellini
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Pecorino Romano or Parmigiano-Reggiano
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1/2 red onion, diced
- 2 large garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups baby spinach, ribboned or torn
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
Liquids and Oils
- 2 TBSP olive oil
- 1 cup chicken broth, more if needed
Seasonings
- Pinch of sea salt
- Cracked black pepper
Instructions
- Heat the oil: In a large skillet, warm the olive oil over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking. This creates the perfect base to sauté your aromatics.
- Sauté the onions: Add the diced red onion to the skillet and cook for about two minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and fragrant, which will build flavor for the dish.
- Cook the sausage and garlic: Add the ground mild Italian sausage to the skillet. Break it apart with a spatula and cook for approximately 5 minutes until mostly browned. Stir in the minced garlic and continue cooking for an additional minute until the garlic is fragrant but not burnt.
- Simmer and cook tortellini: Pour in the chicken broth and stir to combine. Nestle the fresh cheese tortellini into the sausage mixture. Bring the liquid to a gentle simmer, then cover the skillet and cook for 4 minutes, or according to the tortellini package instructions, until the pasta is tender.
- Add spinach and cheese: Remove the lid and stir in the baby spinach along with the grated Pecorino Romano or Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese and lemon zest. Cook uncovered for 1 to 2 minutes until the spinach wilts and the cheese melts slightly, infusing the dish with fresh flavor.
- Finish and serve: Take the skillet off the heat. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the entire dish, season with cracked black pepper and a pinch of salt to taste. Add extra cheese if desired and serve immediately while hot for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- You can use spicy Italian sausage instead of mild for a bit more heat.
- If the skillet gets too dry while cooking, add extra chicken broth a little at a time.
- Fresh tortellini cooks quickly; adjust cooking time accordingly if using frozen or dried varieties.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute sausage with plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and can be reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
