Smoked Sausage and Tortellini Skillet: A Delicious One-Pan Meal

Are you searching for a quick, easy, and flavorful weeknight dinner? Look no further than this Smoked Sausage and Tortellini Skillet! This one-pan meal is packed with savory smoked sausage, cheesy tortellini, vibrant vegetables, and a creamy tomato sauce. It’s a family-friendly dish that’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.

## Why You’ll Love This Recipe

* **One-Pan Wonder:** Minimal cleanup! Everything cooks together in a single skillet, saving you time and effort.
* **Quick and Easy:** From prep to plate, this dish is ready in under 30 minutes.
* **Flavorful:** The combination of smoky sausage, cheesy tortellini, and a rich tomato sauce creates an explosion of flavor.
* **Customizable:** Easily adapt this recipe to your liking by adding different vegetables, cheeses, or sauces.
* **Family-Friendly:** A guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

* **Smoked Sausage:** Kielbasa, andouille, or your favorite smoked sausage will work perfectly. I prefer kielbasa for its mild flavor.
* **Cheese Tortellini:** Fresh or dried tortellini can be used. If using dried, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.
* **Onion:** Adds a savory base to the dish.
* **Bell Pepper:** I like to use a combination of red and green bell peppers for color and flavor, but any color will work.
* **Garlic:** Essential for adding a pungent aroma and flavor.
* **Diced Tomatoes:** Canned diced tomatoes provide a juicy and flavorful base for the sauce. You can use plain diced tomatoes or fire-roasted for extra depth of flavor.
* **Tomato Sauce:** Adds richness and body to the sauce.
* **Heavy Cream:** Creates a creamy and decadent sauce. You can substitute with half-and-half or milk for a lighter option.
* **Italian Seasoning:** A blend of herbs that adds a classic Italian flavor.
* **Red Pepper Flakes:** Adds a touch of heat. Omit if you prefer a milder dish.
* **Olive Oil:** For sautéing the vegetables.
* **Salt and Pepper:** To taste.
* **Fresh Parsley (Optional):** For garnish.
* **Grated Parmesan Cheese (Optional):** For garnish.

## Equipment

* Large Skillet (preferably oven-safe)
* Cutting Board
* Knife
* Measuring Cups and Spoons

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your own delicious Smoked Sausage and Tortellini Skillet:

**Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients**

* Dice the onion and bell pepper. Mince the garlic.
* Slice the smoked sausage into ½-inch thick rounds.

**Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables**

* Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
* Add the onion and bell pepper and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
* Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

**Step 3: Brown the Sausage**

* Add the sliced smoked sausage to the skillet and cook until browned on both sides, about 3-5 minutes. This step adds a wonderful depth of flavor to the dish.

**Step 4: Create the Sauce**

* Pour in the diced tomatoes and tomato sauce. Stir well to combine.
* Add the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
* Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

**Step 5: Add the Tortellini and Cream**

* Stir in the cheese tortellini and heavy cream.
* Bring the mixture back to a simmer and cook until the tortellini is tender and heated through, about 5-7 minutes. If using dried tortellini, you may need to add a little water or broth to the skillet to prevent it from drying out. Cook until the tortellini is tender according to package directions.

**Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!**

* Remove the skillet from the heat.
* Garnish with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
* Serve immediately and enjoy!

## Tips and Variations

* **Add Vegetables:** Get creative and add your favorite vegetables! Some great additions include zucchini, spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli.
* **Change the Cheese:** Experiment with different cheeses! Mozzarella, provolone, or even a sprinkle of cheddar would be delicious.
* **Spice it Up:** If you like things extra spicy, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
* **Make it Lighter:** Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk for a lighter version. You can also use turkey sausage instead of smoked sausage.
* **Bake it:** For a cheesy, bubbly finish, transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
* **Use Different Sauces:** Try using Alfredo sauce, pesto, or a creamy mushroom sauce instead of tomato sauce.
* **Add Beans:** For extra protein and fiber, add a can of drained and rinsed cannellini beans or kidney beans.
* **Make it Vegetarian:** Omit the sausage and add extra vegetables or plant-based protein such as chickpeas or lentils.
* **Use Different Pasta:** While tortellini works best, you can substitute with other pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or farfalle.

## Serving Suggestions

This Smoked Sausage and Tortellini Skillet is a complete meal on its own, but you can also serve it with:

* A side salad
* Garlic bread
* Steamed vegetables

## Make-Ahead Instructions

You can prepare the vegetables and sausage ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, simply sauté the vegetables and sausage as directed in the recipe. The entire dish can also be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add the tortellini just before baking or cooking on the stovetop.

## Storage Instructions

* **Refrigerate:** Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
* **Reheat:** Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.

## Nutritional Information (Approximate)**

*Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.*

* Calories: Approximately 500-600 per serving
* Protein: 25-30g
* Fat: 30-40g
* Carbohydrates: 30-40g

## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

**Q: Can I use frozen tortellini?**
A: Yes, you can use frozen tortellini. There’s no need to thaw it before adding it to the skillet. Just add it directly to the sauce and cook until heated through.

**Q: Can I make this recipe without heavy cream?**
A: Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk for a lighter option. You can also use a dollop of cream cheese or sour cream for extra richness.

**Q: Can I use a different type of sausage?**
A: Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite type of sausage, such as Italian sausage, chorizo, or even chicken sausage.

**Q: Can I freeze this dish?**
A: While you can freeze this dish, the texture of the tortellini may change slightly upon thawing. If you do freeze it, make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

**Q: What if my sauce is too thick?**
A: If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little water or broth to thin it out.

**Q: What if my sauce is too thin?**
A: If the sauce is too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes to allow it to reduce and thicken.

## Conclusion

This Smoked Sausage and Tortellini Skillet is a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. With its simple ingredients, easy preparation, and customizable options, it’s sure to become a family favorite. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a flavorful and fuss-free dinner!

Enjoy this recipe and let me know in the comments how you liked it or if you made any variations!