Sausage Tortellini Alfredo Recipe

If cozy comfort and irresistible Italian flavors are calling your name, this Sausage Tortellini Alfredo will become your new weeknight favorite. Pillowy cheese-filled tortellini, juicy slices of bratwurst, and a creamy, garlicky parmesan Alfredo sauce come together in just 25 minutes—pure bliss in every single bite!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Sausage Tortellini Alfredo recipe keeps things blissfully simple. Every ingredient plays an important role—whether it brings pops of cheese, savory depth, a hint of heat, or that signature Alfredo creaminess we all crave.

• 9-ounce package refrigerated three cheese tortellini: Tender pasta pillows packed with cheesy goodness form the hearty base of the dish.
• 1lb 3oz package brats (such as Johnsonville): These juicy sausages infuse the sauce with tons of flavor and a meaty bite—feel free to try chicken or Italian sausage for a twist.
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter: Melts into the sausage drippings to create a rich foundation for the roux and sauce.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic adds aromatic depth—don’t skimp here!
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes: Just a pinch for a subtle heat that wakes up the creaminess without overpowering.
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the Alfredo sauce until it coats every bite perfectly.
• 1 cup milk: Lays down the silky structure for your sauce and keeps it from getting too heavy.
• 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream: Boosts the decadence for that luxurious Alfredo texture.
• 2 ounces cream cheese, cubed: Melts beautifully and brings irresistible tang and body to the Alfredo.
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese: Freshly grated makes all the difference for signature nutty-salty flavor.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Don’t forget to taste and season—the final flourish that ties everything together.

Variations

One of the joys of Sausage Tortellini Alfredo is its adaptability! Whether you want to switch up the flavor, lighten things up, or tailor it to dietary needs, this recipe welcomes your own signature spin.

• Swap the Sausage: Try spicy or sweet Italian sausage, chorizo, chicken sausage, or even a plant-based brat for a fun twist.
• Add Some Veggies: Stir in fresh spinach, sautéed mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted red peppers for a colorful boost.
• Make It Lighter: Use half-and-half in place of heavy cream, or opt for turkey sausage to trim the richness without sacrificing flavor.
• Go Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free tortellini and your favorite gluten-free flour for a version everyone can enjoy.

How to Make Sausage Tortellini Alfredo

Step 1: Cook the Tortellini

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the cheese tortellini according to the package directions—usually just a few minutes until they’re tender and floating. Drain well and set aside while you get cozy with the rest of the recipe.

Step 2: Brown and Slice the Sausage

In a large skillet or saucepan, add your brats and cook them thoroughly, turning occasionally for even browning; this should take about 10 minutes. Once cooked, transfer the sausages to a plate, let them cool for a minute, then slice them into hearty, bite-sized rounds.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

Don’t wipe out the pan! Let those flavorful sausage drippings stay. Add the butter and let it melt over medium heat, then toss in the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir, letting everything gently sizzle until the kitchen smells like pure heaven—about 1 minute.

Step 4: Make the Roux and Sauce Base

Sprinkle the flour into your garlicky butter mixture and whisk continuously for about a minute, just until the flour is fragrant and a bit toasty. Slowly add the milk and heavy cream while whisking, letting the sauce bubble and thicken to the consistency of heavy cream (about 2-3 minutes).

Step 5: Stir in Cheeses and Finish Alfredo Sauce

Add the cubed cream cheese and grated parmesan directly into the sauce. Stir until both have completely melted and the sauce looks glossy and rich. If your Alfredo seems too thick, splash in a little more milk for the perfect pour.

Step 6: Toss in the Sausage and Tortellini

Gently fold in the sliced sausage and cooked tortellini, letting them get fully coated and warmed through in the Alfredo sauce. Taste and season generously with salt and black pepper. Serve immediately—this Sausage Tortellini Alfredo is meant to be enjoyed hot and creamy!

How to Serve Sausage Tortellini Alfredo

Garnishes

For the finishing touch, shower your Sausage Tortellini Alfredo with more freshly grated parmesan and a scattering of chopped fresh parsley or basil. If you want a touch of color, a light sprinkle of extra red pepper flakes is lovely, and cracked black pepper always looks (and tastes) amazing.

Side Dishes

This indulgent main loves crisp, vibrant sides like a simple Italian salad with a tangy vinaigrette, roasted broccoli, or garlicky sautéed green beans. And, of course, a loaf of warm, crusty bread is highly recommended to mop up every decadent drop of Alfredo sauce!

Creative Ways to Present

Spoon the Sausage Tortellini Alfredo directly into shallow pasta bowls for a cozy, rustic look, or serve in a large platter garnished with extra parmesan and parsley for family-style fun. For date-night flair, twirl a nest of tortellini with sausage on each plate and add a parsley sprig or edible flower for an elegant touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Sausage Tortellini Alfredo stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pasta will soak up some of the sauce, but that just makes it extra flavorful the next day!

Freezing

If you’d like to freeze portions, spread the cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container and top with a layer of plastic wrap before sealing. Freeze for up to 2 months. Let thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best results.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the Sausage Tortellini Alfredo on the stove over medium-low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen up the sauce. A microwave works too—cover and use 50% power, stirring halfway for even heating.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for the ultimate quick-and-comforting meal, Sausage Tortellini Alfredo checks every box. I hope you give this cozy, creamy crowd-pleaser a spin in your own kitchen—don’t be surprised if it instantly becomes a family favorite!

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