Tortellini Alfredo with Spinach and Sausage
Highlighted under: Old-Fashioned Comfort Eats
Indulge in a creamy, comforting dish of Tortellini Alfredo with Spinach and Sausage, perfect for a cozy dinner.
This Tortellini Alfredo combines rich flavors and textures, making it a favorite among pasta lovers. The addition of spinach and sausage not only enhances the taste but also adds nutritional value.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy Alfredo sauce that coats every tortellini perfectly
- Savory sausage adds a delightful depth of flavor
- Fresh spinach brings color and nutrition to the dish
A Creamy Delight
Tortellini Alfredo with Spinach and Sausage is a dish that epitomizes comfort food. The creamy Alfredo sauce envelops each tortellini, creating a rich and satisfying experience. Whether you're cooking for a weeknight family dinner or entertaining guests, this dish impresses with its decadent flavor and appealing presentation.
The combination of cheese-filled tortellini and a velvety sauce provides a delightful contrast in textures. Each bite is a burst of cheesy goodness, complemented by the savory elements of sausage and the freshness of spinach. This dish not only pleases the palate but also nourishes the body with wholesome ingredients.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This Tortellini Alfredo recipe is versatile enough to suit various occasions. It's a fantastic choice for a cozy date night at home or a comforting family meal. The addition of spinach not only enhances the flavor but also adds a pop of color, making it visually appealing on any dinner table.
Furthermore, if you're looking to impress at a dinner party, this dish pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine. The creamy sauce and savory sausage harmonize with wine's acidity, elevating your dining experience. Your guests will rave about this delightful dish long after the meal is over.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 package (9 oz) cheese tortellini
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking for a smooth preparation process.
Cooking Instructions
Cook the Tortellini
In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Brown the Sausage
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
Add Garlic and Spinach
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and stir for about 1 minute. Then, add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted.
Make the Alfredo Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Gradually add the Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce is creamy and smooth.
Combine Ingredients
Add the cooked tortellini to the sauce and sausage mixture, tossing gently to coat. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve
Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan if desired.
Enjoy your delicious Tortellini Alfredo with Spinach and Sausage!
Tips for Success
To ensure your Alfredo sauce is perfectly smooth, add the Parmesan cheese gradually while stirring continuously. This prevents clumping and guarantees a creamy consistency throughout. If the sauce becomes too thick, a splash of pasta water can help loosen it up without sacrificing flavor.
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg to your Alfredo sauce. This traditional addition enhances the creaminess and adds a subtle warmth that complements the richness of the dish beautifully. Just a small amount can elevate the overall taste.
Variations to Try
While this recipe features Italian sausage, feel free to experiment with different protein options. Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even a plant-based sausage can work wonderfully, allowing you to tailor the dish to your preferences. Each protein brings its unique flavor profile, making every version a delightful surprise.
For added nutrition, incorporate other vegetables such as sun-dried tomatoes, bell peppers, or mushrooms. These additions not only boost the dish's health factor but also create a more colorful and vibrant meal. Mixing in seasonal vegetables can keep the recipe exciting all year round.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes, frozen tortellini works well. Just cook them according to package instructions.
→ How can I make it vegetarian?
You can omit the sausage and add more vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers.
→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can cook everything and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving.
→ What can I serve with Tortellini Alfredo?
A simple green salad or garlic bread pairs perfectly with this dish.
Tortellini Alfredo with Spinach and Sausage
Indulge in a creamy, comforting dish of Tortellini Alfredo with Spinach and Sausage, perfect for a cozy dinner.
Created by: Ella
Recipe Type: Old-Fashioned Comfort Eats
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 1 package (9 oz) cheese tortellini
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and stir for about 1 minute. Then, add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted.
Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Gradually add the Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce is creamy and smooth.
Add the cooked tortellini to the sauce and sausage mixture, tossing gently to coat. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Total Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 35g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 15g