Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli

When it comes to quick, satisfying, and restaurant-worthy dinners, few dishes can compare to Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli. Imagine tender cheese-filled tortellini tossed with juicy sausage, crisp-tender broccoli, and a velvety Parmesan garlic cream sauce all in under 30 minutes. It’s cozy comfort food that delivers rich, creamy flavor without the fuss of an elaborate recipe. This is the kind of dish that wins weeknights and earns applause from everyone at the table.

What Is Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli

Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli is a one-pan Italian-inspired pasta dish that combines cheese tortellini with seared sausage, sautéed garlic, and broccoli florets, all enveloped in a creamy Parmesan sauce. The result is a flavorful, balanced meal that blends the richness of the sauce, the saltiness of the sausage, and the freshness of the vegetables in every bite.

this Recipe

Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Recipe

This dish has all the hallmarks of a perfect weeknight dinner—it’s fast, filling, and full of flavor. You’ll love it because it:

• Uses just one skillet, minimizing cleanup.
• Balances creamy, garlicky sauce with fresh, green broccoli.
• Feels indulgent while still being packed with protein and veggies.
• Can easily be customized with your favorite sausage or pasta.
• Comes together in about 30 minutes, start to finish.

How Does It Taste?

Every bite of this dish is pure comfort. The tortellini is soft and cheesy, coated in a buttery garlic cream sauce. The sausage adds a deep savory note that complements the slight crunch and freshness of the broccoli. Parmesan gives it a nutty, salty finish, and the garlic-infused cream ties it all together in a silky, satisfying sauce that coats each piece perfectly.

Health & Ingredient Benefits

This isn’t just a comfort meal—it’s balanced too.

• Broccoli adds fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins C and K.
• Sausage provides protein and rich flavor. Opt for chicken or turkey sausage to make it leaner.
• Garlic brings immune-boosting benefits and incredible aroma.
• Parmesan contributes calcium, protein, and umami depth.
• Olive oil and butter add healthy fats and flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 lb (450 g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups broccoli florets
• 9 oz (250 g) cheese tortellini (fresh or refrigerated)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for topping)
• ½ cup reserved pasta water
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Optional: red pepper flakes, parsley for garnish

Tools You’ll Need

• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Grater for fresh Parmesan

Optional Substitutions & Additions

• Protein swaps: Use ground chicken, turkey, or plant-based sausage.
• Pasta options: Any stuffed pasta works—ravioli or mini gnocchi.
• Dairy-free: Use coconut cream and nutritional yeast instead of cream and cheese.
• Veggie boost: Add spinach, mushrooms, or roasted cherry tomatoes.

How to Make

1. Cook the tortellini: Boil according to package directions until just al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. Brown the sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook sausage in olive oil until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
3. Add garlic and broccoli: In the same skillet, add butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 1 minute, then toss in broccoli florets and a splash of water. Cover and steam for 2–3 minutes until bright green.
4. Make the sauce: Pour in heavy cream and stir in Parmesan. Let it simmer until slightly thickened, 2–3 minutes.
5. Combine everything: Add tortellini and sausage back to the skillet. Toss gently to coat, adding reserved pasta water as needed for creaminess.
6. Season and serve: Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan.

What to Serve With

This pasta dish pairs beautifully with:

• Garlic bread or focaccia
• A crisp Caesar or arugula salad
• A glass of white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc

Tips for Success

• Use fresh tortellini for the best texture—it cooks faster and holds sauce better.
• Don’t skip reserving pasta water; it helps emulsify and thicken the sauce.
• Cook the sausage until nicely browned for deep flavor.
• Add broccoli toward the end to keep it vibrant and not overcooked.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the pasta: Tortellini cooks quickly, so pull it off the heat just before it’s done.
• Too much heat with the cream: High heat can cause the sauce to separate. Keep it gentle.
• Skipping the pasta water: It’s key for that silky sauce consistency.

How to Store & Reheat

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheat: Warm gently on the stove over low heat with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the components separately and combine them when ready to serve.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Absolutely. Steam or microwave it first before adding to the sauce.
Is there a lighter version?
Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and turkey sausage instead of pork.

Nutritional Info (approximate per serving)

Calories: 520
Protein: 25g
Carbs: 38g
Fat: 30g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 3g

Conclusion

This Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli is the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy, and comforting flavors. It’s easy enough for weeknights yet indulgent enough for special occasions. With hearty sausage, bright broccoli, and a velvety Parmesan sauce, this dish transforms simple ingredients into something truly irresistible.

Print

October 8, 2025 by Melissa