Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini: 5 Reasons to Love It

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Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini is a delightful dish that has quickly become a favorite in my household. This recipe combines the rich flavors of garlic and parmesan cheese with tender tortellini, creating a luscious sauce that coats every ingredient. The addition of beef sausage and broccoli not only enhances the flavor but also adds a satisfying texture to the dish. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special occasion, this easy creamy tortellini dish is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini

There are countless reasons to adore this Garlic Tortellini Recipe. First and foremost, it’s incredibly quick to prepare, making it a perfect choice for a Quick Creamy Tortellini Meal. The combination of flavors—rich garlic, savory parmesan, and creamy sauce—creates an experience your taste buds will crave. Additionally, this dish is versatile; you can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins. Not to mention, it’s a crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners or date nights. Plus, it’s vegetarian-friendly if you opt to skip the sausage, making it a Vegetarian Garlic Parmesan Tortellini option as well. Finally, it’s a comforting meal that can easily fit into a gluten-free diet, ensuring everyone can enjoy it.

Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini

Gather these items:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound Italian beef sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
4 cups broccoli florets (about 1 medium head)
1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
1/4 teaspoon black pepper, plus more to taste
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
4-5 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 medium yellow onion, finely diced (optional)
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
1 1/2 cups heavy cream
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
18-20 ounces fresh or frozen cheese tortellini
Salt for pasta water
Fresh chopped parsley (for garnish, optional)

How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini Step-by-Step

Step 1: Wash and cut broccoli into bite-sized florets. Mince garlic and finely dice the onion (if using). Grate 1 cup of fresh Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish. Gather all liquids and spices.
Step 2: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add beef sausage, breaking it apart, and cook for 6-8 minutes until browned. Transfer sausage to a plate, leaving 1-2 tablespoons of fat in the pan. Add broccoli to the skillet and sauté for 5-7 minutes until tender-crisp, seasoning with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp pepper. Transfer broccoli to the plate with the sausage.
Step 3: Reduce heat to medium. Add 3 tbsp butter to the skillet. Once melted, add onion (if using) and cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Sprinkle in 1/4 cup flour, whisking for 1-2 minutes to form a light roux.
Step 4: Gradually whisk in 2 cups chicken broth until smooth, then bring to a gentle simmer for 2-3 minutes. Reduce heat to low and slowly whisk in 1 1/2 cups heavy cream. Stir in 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and optional red pepper flakes until melted and smooth. Taste and season with additional salt and pepper as needed.
Step 5: While the sauce simmers on low, bring a large pot of heavily salted water to a rolling boil. Add tortellini and cook according to package directions (2-5 minutes). Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of the starchy pasta water. Drain tortellini thoroughly.
Step 6: Add the drained tortellini, cooked beef sausage, and sautéed broccoli directly into the skillet with the creamy sauce. Gently toss until all ingredients are evenly coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash or two of reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh chopped parsley and extra grated Parmesan cheese.

Delicious creamy garlic parmesan tortellini served in a bowl

Pro Tips for the Best Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini

Keep these in mind:

This dish is perfect for weeknights or special occasions.
Use fresh cheese tortellini for the best texture.
Customize with your favorite vegetables.
For an extra creamy touch, consider adding more heavy cream or cheese.

Best Ways to Serve Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini

Here are a few ideas:

Serve with crusty garlic bread for a complete meal.
Pair with a simple green salad for a refreshing contrast.
Top with crispy bacon or grilled chicken for added flavor.

How to Store and Reheat Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce, making it just as delicious as the first time!

Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini

What’s the secret to perfect Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini?

The key is to create a balance between the creamy sauce and the flavors of garlic and parmesan. Be sure to taste and adjust the seasoning throughout the cooking process for the best results.

Can I make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the sauce and cook the tortellini ahead of time. Just reheat the sauce and combine it with the tortellini when you’re ready to serve.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini?

One common mistake is not tasting as you cook. Always taste and adjust seasoning. Also, avoid overcooking the tortellini; they should be al dente.

Variations of Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini You Can Try

Here are some delicious variations:

Substitute the beef sausage for grilled chicken or shrimp for a different protein.
For a vegetarian option, use mushrooms and spinach instead of meat.
Add sun-dried tomatoes or artichoke hearts for a Mediterranean twist.
Try using different types of cheese, like mozzarella or goat cheese, for a unique flavor profile.

Ingredients for creamy garlic parmesan tortellini laid out on a kitchen counter

For more delicious recipes, check out Apple Pie Baked Oats or Pumpkin Sage Soup. If you’re looking for a fun meal idea, try Mummy Mini Pizzas or Spooky Stuffed Zucchini. For dessert, don’t miss out on S’mores Cookie Bars.

For more information on the health benefits of garlic, you can visit Healthline.