Description
A hearty Italian-inspired dish combining cheese tortellini with roasted sweet Italian sausage and tender broccoli, tossed in a rich and creamy pink tomato sauce. Perfect for comforting weeknight or weekend dinners.
Ingredients
24 ounces cheese tortellini
4 links sweet Italian sausage
2 cups broccoli florets
2 cups prepared marinara sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon kosher salt
⅛ teaspoon crushed red pepper
2 tablespoons grated Pecorino Romano cheese (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil.
- Place the sausage links on the baking sheet and roast for 25–30 minutes, until cooked through and no longer pink.
- Remove the sausage from the oven and slice into ½-inch thick pieces.
- About 15 minutes after putting the sausage in the oven, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the tortellini and cook for 2–3 minutes until they float to the top. Drain and set aside.
- In a small saucepan, combine marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper, heavy cream, and kosher salt. Heat over low until warmed through and well combined.
- Steam the broccoli florets by microwaving them with a little water in a microwave-safe dish for about 5 minutes, then drain.
- In a large pot, combine the cooked tortellini, sliced sausage, steamed broccoli, and pink cream sauce. Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
- Transfer to a serving bowl and garnish with grated Pecorino Romano cheese before serving.
Notes
Use spicy Italian sausage for added heat.
Substitute broccoli with spinach, asparagus, or peas for variety.
Swap heavy cream with half-and-half or non-dairy cream for a lighter or vegan version.
Add garlic or onion powder to the sauce for extra flavor.
Top with fresh basil or parsley for a fresh garnish.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding milk or cream if sauce thickens.
Use gluten-free tortellini and marinara sauce to make this dish gluten-free.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
