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Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini With Sausage And Broccoli is more than just a meal; it’s an invitation to a symphony of flavors and textures that promises to become a cherished staple in your culinary repertoire. Have you ever craved a dish that wraps you in a warm, savory embrace after a long day? This recipe delivers precisely that – a hearty, comforting experience designed to satisfy even the most discerning palates.

Discover the Comfort and Richness of This Dish

While tortellini itself hails from the heart of Italy, traditionally filled with meat or cheese and often served in a simple broth, this particular rendition evolves into a robust, complete meal that celebrates accessible ingredients and incredible taste. I find that people absolutely adore this dish for its unparalleled combination of rich, savory sausage, tender, perfectly cooked tortellini, and the delightful freshness of crisp-tender broccoli, all enveloped in a luxuriously creamy, garlicky, and deeply flavorful Parmesan sauce.

The umami kick from the Parmesan, combined with the aromatic garlic, transforms simple ingredients into something truly extraordinary. It’s the kind of wholesome, satisfying dish that brings smiles to faces around the dinner table, offering both convenience for busy weeknights and an impressive depth of flavor that makes it suitable for special occasions. Get ready to fall in love with this unforgettable Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini With Sausage And Broccoli.

Ingredients:

  • For the Tortellini:

    • 20 ounces (approximately two 10-ounce packages) fresh or frozen cheese tortellini. I find that the fresh, refrigerated tortellini cooks beautifully and has a wonderful texture, but frozen works just as well – just follow the package directions!
    • 1 tablespoon olive oil, plus a pinch of salt for the pasta water. This helps prevent sticking and infuses a little extra flavor.

  • For the Sausage and Broccoli:

    • 1 pound Italian sausage, casing removed. I often opt for a mild Italian sausage to keep the dish family-friendly, but if you love a bit of a kick, spicy Italian sausage would be absolutely fantastic in our Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini With Sausage And Broccoli.

    • 3-4 cups broccoli florets, fresh or frozen. This usually comes from one large head of broccoli, cut into bite-sized pieces. If using frozen, there’s no need to thaw!
    • 1 tablespoon olive oil.
    • 2 cloves garlic, freshly minced. We’re going to layer the garlic flavor in this dish, and this initial bit sets the stage.

  • For the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce:

    • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter. Butter provides the rich base for our roux and our sauce.
    • 4 cloves garlic, freshly minced. Yes, more garlic! This is a “Creamy Garlic Parmesan” dish after all, and we want that unmistakable pungent, savory aroma to shine.

    • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour. This will help thicken our luxurious sauce.
    • 4 cups whole milk, gently warmed. Warming the milk slightly before adding it to the roux helps create a smoother sauce and prevents lumps. You can also use half-and-half for an even richer, more indulgent sauce.
    • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth. This adds another layer of savory depth to the sauce.

    • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving. When I say freshly grated, I truly mean it. Pre-grated Parmesan often contains anti-caking agents that can make your sauce gritty. For the ultimate Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini, grating your own is key.
    • 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened. This is my secret ingredient for an extra silky, velvety texture in the sauce that truly sets this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini With Sausage And Broccoli apart.
    • 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning. A classic blend to enhance our Italian-inspired flavors.

    • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional). If you enjoy a very subtle warmth without the full heat of spicy sausage, these are a wonderful addition.
    • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Seasoning properly at each stage is crucial for a well-balanced dish.

  • For Garnish (Optional but Recommended):

    • Fresh parsley, finely chopped. A sprinkle of fresh herbs adds a beautiful pop of color and freshness.

Prepping Our Components for the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini

  1. Prepare the Broccoli: Let’s start by getting our broccoli ready. If you’re using a fresh head, wash it thoroughly and then cut the florets into bite-sized pieces, aiming for about 1 to 1.5 inches. This ensures they cook evenly and are easy to manage in the final dish. Discard the tough stalk or save it for another use. If you’re working with frozen broccoli, you can simply set it aside for now – no need to thaw.

  2. Mince the Garlic: Next up, let’s get that glorious garlic prepped! Peel all 6 cloves of garlic (2 for the sausage and broccoli, 4 for the sauce) and mince them finely. For the most potent flavor, I love to use a garlic press or a very sharp knife to get those tiny, aromatic pieces. Having all your garlic ready to go will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.
  3. Soften Cream Cheese and Warm Milk: Take your 1/2 cup of cream cheese out of the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes to soften. This step is important because it helps the cream cheese melt smoothly into our sauce without leaving any lumps. While that’s softening, gently warm your 4 cups of whole milk. You can do this in a small saucepan over low heat or in the microwave for a couple of minutes until it’s warm to the touch but not boiling. This small step helps prevent the sauce from clumping when the milk is added to the roux, leading to a much creamier final result for our Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini With Sausage And Broccoli.

Cooking the Sausage and Broccoli

  1. Brown the Italian Sausage: Grab a large skillet or a Dutch oven – something with plenty of space – and heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add your Italian sausage (with the casing removed, if applicable). Break it up with a wooden spoon or spatula as it cooks. You want to brown the sausage thoroughly, stirring occasionally, until it’s cooked through and no pink remains, typically about 6-8 minutes. Don’t be afraid to let some of those delicious browned bits form on the bottom of the pan; they add incredible flavor! Once cooked, remove the sausage from the pan with a slotted spoon, leaving behind any rendered fat. Set the cooked sausage aside in a bowl.

  2. Sauté the Broccoli and Garlic: Reduce the heat to medium. If the pan looks dry, add another splash of olive oil. Add your prepped broccoli florets to the skillet. If you’re using frozen broccoli, add it directly from the freezer. Sauté the broccoli for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it starts to become tender-crisp and turns a vibrant green. You want it to still have a little bite, as it will continue to cook slightly when combined with the sauce. About 2 minutes before the broccoli is done, add the 2 cloves of minced garlic to the pan. Cook for just 1-2 minutes more, stirring constantly, until the garlic is fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as burnt garlic can taste bitter. Once the broccoli is tender-crisp and the garlic is fragrant, remove the broccoli and garlic mixture from the pan and add it to the bowl with the cooked sausage.

Crafting the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce

  1. Build the Roux Base: Now for the heart of our Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini With Sausage And Broccoli – the sauce! Using the same skillet (no need to clean it, those leftover bits of flavor are gold!), melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once the butter is fully melted and slightly foamy, add your remaining 4 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute until it’s incredibly fragrant and just starting to turn golden. Be mindful not to let it brown too much. Then, sprinkle in the 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour. Whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to create a smooth paste, cooking out the raw flour taste. This is your roux, the thickening agent for our luscious sauce. It should be a pale golden color and smell slightly nutty.
  2. Whisk in Liquids and Thicken: Gradually, and I mean gradually, begin to whisk in the warmed whole milk, a little at a time, incorporating it fully before adding more. This slow addition is key to preventing lumps and ensuring a silky-smooth sauce. Keep whisking until all the milk has been added and the mixture is smooth. Next, pour in the 1 cup of low-sodium chicken broth, continuing to whisk. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, still whisking occasionally. Allow it to simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until it has noticeably thickened to a consistency that lightly coats the back of a spoon. It should be wonderfully creamy even at this stage, laying the foundation for our ultimate Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini.

  3. Melt in the Cheeses and Season: Once your sauce has thickened beautifully, reduce the heat to low. Now for the magic! Add your softened 1/2 cup of cream cheese to the sauce. Whisk it vigorously until it’s completely melted and incorporated, making the sauce incredibly smooth and velvety. Then, stir in the 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Continue to stir until the Parmesan has fully melted into the sauce, creating that signature cheesy goodness. Finally, stir in the 1/2 teaspoon of dried Italian seasoning and the optional 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Taste the sauce and season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Remember, pasta and other ingredients will absorb some of the seasoning, so don’t be shy. You’re aiming for a rich, savory, and perfectly balanced Creamy Garlic Parmesan sauce that will coat every piece of tortellini and every bit of sausage and broccoli.

Cooking the Tortellini

  1. Boil the Tortellini: While your sauce is simmering, bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Adding salt at this stage is crucial, as it seasons the tortellini from the inside out. Once the water is boiling rapidly, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the water, then carefully drop in your 20 ounces of fresh or frozen tortellini. Stir gently to prevent sticking.
  2. Cook and Reserve Pasta Water: Cook the tortellini according to the package directions. Fresh tortellini usually takes only 2-4 minutes, while frozen might take a bit longer, typically 5-7 minutes, or until al dente. You want them tender but still with a slight bite. Before draining the tortellini, be sure to reserve about 1 cup of the starchy pasta cooking water. This pasta water is a chef’s secret weapon; it’s full of starch and salt and will be used to help emulsify our sauce and adjust its consistency later, making it even creamier and ensuring everything coats beautifully for our Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini With Sausage And Broccoli. Once cooked, drain the tortellini well and set aside.

Bringing Our Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini With Sausage And Broccoli All Together

  1. Combine All Components: With your beautiful Creamy Garlic Parmesan sauce ready in the skillet, and the tortellini, sausage, and broccoli patiently waiting, it’s time to bring everything together for the grand finale! Add the cooked tortellini directly into the skillet with the sauce. Then, add the cooked Italian sausage and the tender-crisp broccoli and garlic mixture.
  2. Toss and Adjust Consistency: Gently toss all the ingredients together, using tongs or a large spoon, ensuring that every single tortellini, piece of sausage, and floret of broccoli is generously coated in that rich, Creamy Garlic Parmesan sauce. If the sauce seems a little too thick for your liking, now is the time to add a splash or two of that reserved pasta water. Stir it in gradually, adding just enough until you reach your desired creamy consistency. The starch in the pasta water helps the sauce cling even better to the tortellini, creating a wonderfully cohesive dish.
  3. Serve and Garnish: Your incredible Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini With Sausage And Broccoli is now ready to be enjoyed! Transfer the hot and fragrant dish to individual serving bowls. For an extra flourish and a touch of freshness, sprinkle each serving with a bit of extra freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a generous pinch of chopped fresh parsley, if using. Serve immediately and savor every comforting, flavorful bite of this truly satisfying pasta dish. This is truly a meal that speaks of comfort, rich flavor, and the joy of home cooking, perfect for any weeknight or special occasion.

Creamy Garlic Parm Tortellini with Beef Sausage & Broccoli

Conclusion:

I’ve poured my heart into sharing this incredible dish with you, and I truly believe it’s one you’ll come back to time and time again. The magic of this recipe lies in its perfect symphony of flavors and textures. Imagine tender tortellini, perfectly cooked sausage, and vibrant, crisp-tender broccoli all swimming in a rich, velvety garlic parmesan sauce. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience – one that brings comfort, joy, and a burst of savory delight to every single forkful. This isn’t just another pasta dish; it’s a revelation, surprisingly simple to prepare yet yielding results that taste like they came straight from your favorite Italian restaurant. I can’t emphasize enough how much this recipe stands out. It’s the kind of dish that makes you close your eyes and savor each bite, a testament to the fact that sometimes the simplest ingredients, when combined with a little love and the right technique, can create something truly extraordinary. It’s an ideal weeknight dinner solution that feels utterly luxurious, perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself and your loved ones to a truly special meal.

Elevate Your Dining Experience

Now, let’s talk about making this dish even more “yours” or adapting it for different occasions. While the classic preparation is undeniably fantastic, there are so many ways to customize and elevate your experience. For serving, I always recommend a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness, and of course, a crusty loaf of garlic bread is practically mandatory for soaking up every last bit of that amazing sauce. A glass of crisp white wine, like a Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, also pairs beautifully, enhancing the flavors without overpowering them.

Endless Possibilities for Customization

When it comes to variations, the possibilities are truly endless. If you’re not a fan of sausage, cooked chicken breast, shrimp, or even some crispy pan-fried pancetta would make excellent substitutes. For a vegetarian twist, consider adding sautéed mushrooms, chickpeas, or a mix of bell peppers instead of meat. Don’t limit yourself to just broccoli, either! Spinach, kale, asparagus tips, or even thawed frozen peas can be folded in for extra greens and nutrients. If you want to lean into different cheese profiles, a sprinkle of fresh mozzarella or a sharper Pecorino Romano could add a delightful new dimension. For those who prefer a slightly lighter sauce, you can reduce the heavy cream slightly and supplement with a bit more chicken or vegetable broth. And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not try baking it? Transfer the prepared tortellini to a baking dish, top with a generous layer of mozzarella and parmesan, and bake until bubbly and golden brown for an incredible pasta bake experience. You could even experiment with different tortellini fillings, from cheese to spinach and ricotta, each bringing its own unique character to the dish. This adaptability is one of the many reasons I adore this recipe; it’s a fantastic base that invites your own creativity into the kitchen.

Your Turn to Shine: Try and Share!

So, what are you waiting for? I genuinely urge you to set aside some time this week to whip up this incredible Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini With Sausage And Broccoli. I promise you, it’s a decision your taste buds will thank you for. I’m incredibly confident that once you take that first bite, you’ll understand exactly why I’m so enthusiastic about it. This dish is destined to become a staple in your culinary repertoire, a go-to for those evenings when you crave something truly satisfying and utterly delicious. And when you do try it, please, please, please come back and share your experience with me! Did you make any fun variations? What did your family think? Your feedback and cooking adventures truly inspire me, and I love hearing how my recipes brighten your day. Snap a picture, tell me your thoughts, and let’s celebrate the joy of good food together. Happy cooking, my friends – I can’t wait to hear all about it!

Creamy Garlic Parm Tortellini with Beef Sausage & Broccoli

Creamy Garlic Parm Tortellini with Beef Sausage & Broccoli

This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini With Beef Sausage And Broccoli is more than just a meal; it’s an invitation to a symphony of flavors and textures. It’s a hearty, comforting experience designed to satisfy even the most discerning palates. You’ll love how the garlic and parmesan melt together into a luscious sauce that coats every ingredient. It’s a crowd-pleaser, a picky-eater friendly meal, and a recipe you’ll want to keep in regular rotation. Perfect for weeknights, date nights, or anytime you crave a satisfying, cozy plate of pasta.

Ingredients

  • 20 ounces fresh or frozen cheese tortellini

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for pasta water)

  • 1 pound ground beef, Italian-style (casing removed if applicable)

  • 3-4 cups broccoli florets, fresh or frozen

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sausage/broccoli)

  • 6 cloves garlic, minced (2 for sausage/broccoli, 4 for sauce)

  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter

  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

  • 4 cups whole milk, gently warmed (or half-and-half)

  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth

  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving

  • 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened

  • 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning

  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

  • Salt to taste

  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste

  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Step 1
    Cut broccoli into bite-sized florets. Mince all 6 cloves of garlic. Soften cream cheese at room temperature and gently warm the milk.
  2. Step 2
    Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 lb ground beef; break up and brown for 6-8 minutes. Remove cooked beef, leaving rendered fat. Reduce heat to medium, add broccoli florets and sauté 5-7 minutes. Add 2 cloves minced garlic, cook 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Remove broccoli/garlic and add to beef.
  3. Step 3
    In the same skillet, melt 4 tbsp unsalted butter over medium heat. Sauté remaining 4 cloves minced garlic for 1 minute. Whisk in 1/2 cup all-purpose flour for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually whisk in 4 cups warm milk, then 1 cup chicken broth. Bring to a gentle simmer, whisking occasionally, until sauce thickens (5-7 minutes).

  4. Step 4
    Reduce heat to low. Whisk in 1/2 cup softened cream cheese until smooth, then stir in 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted. Stir in 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning and optional 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Step 5
    Meanwhile, bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Add 1 tbsp olive oil, then add 20 oz tortellini. Cook according to package directions (2-7 minutes). Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water before draining tortellini.
  6. Step 6
    Add cooked tortellini, beef sausage, and broccoli to the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently to combine, adding reserved pasta water gradually if needed to reach desired consistency. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley (optional).

Important Information

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.



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