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One-Pan Tortellini and Sausage Skillet Dinner

A delightful and comforting dish made with creamy cheese tortellini, savory Italian sausage, and fresh spinach, all cooked in one skillet for an easy weeknight meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 500
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 20 oz fresh cheese tortellini Plump, creamy pasta filled with rich cheese.
  • 1 lb ground mild Italian sausage Savory sausage infuses the dish with delightful flavors.
  • 2 TBSP olive oil Enhances the overall richness of the meal.
  • 1/2 unit red onion, diced Provides depth to the dish with its sweet tangy flavor.
  • 2 large garlic cloves, minced Aromatic and complements the sausage.
  • 4 cups baby spinach, ribboned or torn Adds color and nutrition to the recipe.
  • 1 cup chicken broth Ensures the tortellini and sausage soak up delicious flavors.
  • pinch unit sea salt Enhances all the flavors.
  • to taste unit cracked black pepper Adds warmth and complexity.
  • 1/4 cup freshly grated Pecorino Romano or Parmigiano-Reggiano Elevates the dish to restaurant quality.
  • 1 unit lemon, zested and juiced Balances richness and adds refreshing citrus notes.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Start by heating olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Once the oil shimmers, add the diced red onions and sauté them for about two minutes, or until they soften and become aromatic.
Cooking the Sausage
  1. Add the minced garlic and ground Italian sausage to the skillet.
  2. Cook until the sausage is mostly browned, about 5 minutes. Use a spatula to break it down into crumbles as it cooks.
Adding Broth and Tortellini
  1. Pour in the chicken broth and add the fresh cheese tortellini.
  2. Gently nestle the tortellini into the mixture.
Simmering
  1. Bring the broth to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat and cover the skillet.
  2. Let the tortellini cook for about 4 minutes, or as directed on the packaging.
Incorporating Spinach and Cheese
  1. Remove the lid from the skillet and stir in fresh spinach, grated cheese, and lemon zest.
  2. Allow everything to cook for another minute or two, letting the spinach wilt.
Finishing Touch
  1. Remove from heat and drizzle fresh lemon juice over the top.
  2. Add cracked black pepper and extra cheese if desired, then serve immediately.

Notes

For extra flavor, consider using spicy Italian sausage. Feel free to mix in other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms. For a creamier dish, add a splash of heavy cream at the end. Leftovers can taste even better the next day.