Creamy Sausage Mascarpone Tortellini
Need a hug on a plate This Tortellini with Sausage and Mascarpone is creamy delicious and ready in 35 The mascarpone makes it extra special Get the recipe ... Quick & Easy Recipes
Creamy Sausage & Mascarpone Tortellini: An Italian Comfort Food Classic
Ever get that craving for something seriously comforting? Honestly, sometimes only pasta will do. This Tortellini with Sausage and Mascarpone is my absolute go-to when I need a culinary hug.
The creamy, rich sauce paired with flavorful sausage makes it utterly irresistible!
What’s the Story?
This tasty pasta dish is inspired by classic Italian flavors. It's like a simplified version of something you'd find in a cozy trattoria.
It's dead easy to make. We are talking about a quick weeknight pasta dinner kind of easy, clocking in at about 35 minutes from start to finish.
This recipe comfortably feeds four hungry souls.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
One of the best things about this Italian sausage tortellini recipe is that it feels indulgent without being too heavy.
The mascarpone adds a touch of luxury. This recipe is perfect for those evenings when you crave something satisfying and delicious.
It's what comfort food pasta recipes are all about.
Right then, let’s dive into the ingredients you'll need for this Creamy Sausage Tortellini .
Right, let's talk shop about what you'll need to whip up this Creamy Sausage Tortellini . Honestly, it's dead easy. You'll be making restaurant-worthy Tortellini with Sausage and Mascarpone in no time!
Creamy Sausage Mascarpone Tortellini Recipe Card
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts
Ingredients & Equipment
Main Ingredients
Okay, here’s the lowdown. Get your notepad ready!
- Tortellini: You’ll need 1 pound (450g) of cheese tortellini. Fresh is fab, but frozen works too. Quality indicators? Make sure they look plump and aren't stuck together in a big clump.
- Sausage: 1 pound (450g) of Italian sausage. Sweet or hot? Your call, mate! Just yank off the casings, yeah?
- Garlic: 2 cloves , minced. Go on, get those garlic presses out!
- Red Pepper Flakes: ½ teaspoon (optional). For a little kick up the bum.
- White Wine: ½ cup (120ml) of dry white wine. Pinot Grigio's a safe bet. None of that nasty cooking wine, promise?
- Chicken Broth: 1 cup (240ml) of low-sodium chicken broth.
- Heavy Cream: ½ cup (120ml) . Gotta have that creamy goodness for the Tortellini with creamy sausage sauce !
- Mascarpone Cheese: 4 ounces (115g) . This is the secret weapon. Trust me. For a substitution, you can use ricotta cheese.
- Parmesan Cheese: ¼ cup (packed) , grated. Plus more for serving, because cheese is life.
- Parsley: 2 tablespoons , chopped. Fresh is best.
Seasoning Notes
So, spices are where the magic happens. Italian sausage tortellini recipe is nothing without a bit of flavour.
- Essential spice combo: Garlic + red pepper flakes (if you're feeling brave). This is the heart of the flavor.
- Flavor enhancer: The white wine. It deglazes the pan and adds a depth you wouldn't believe. The aroma, oh my gosh!
- Quick subs: No red pepper flakes? A pinch of cayenne will do the trick. Sub Italian sausage for pancetta for a different experience.
Equipment Needed
Right, let’s not overcomplicate things. You don’t need fancy gadgets for this Quick weeknight pasta dinner .
Large Pot: For cooking the tortellini, obviously.
Large Skillet or Sauté Pan: For the sauce. Get one big enough to hold everything.
Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For stirring.
Colander: To drain the tortellini.
Alternatives? If you don't have a fancy colander, a large bowl and a steady hand will work just fine.
This Easy Pasta Dishes becomes a great Comfort food pasta recipes with these tips. Enjoy your Tasty Pasta recipe!
Creamy Sausage & Mascarpone Tortellini: An Italian Comfort Food Classic
Oh my gosh, you have to try this! This Tortellini with Sausage and Mascarpone is seriously the ultimate comfort food.
It combines cheesy Tortellini Pasta with a rich, creamy sauce. We're talking Italian sausage tortellini recipe , sweet mascarpone, and a hint of garlic.
It's a Quick weeknight pasta dinner that feels like a hug in a bowl. Honestly, you'll be making this all the time.
Prep Steps: Get Your Ducks in a Row
First things first, mise en place is key, yeah? Get everything chopped and measured. It makes life so much easier.
I like to chop the garlic and measure out the wine and broth before I even turn on the hob.
This is the essential mise en place to make sure you have everything ready! Plus, removing the sausage from its casing can get a little messy, so get that done early.
Safety first! Always wash your hands after handling raw meat.
Step-by-Step: From Hob to Heaven
Right then, let's get cooking this Tasty Pasta !
- Cook the tortellini. Pop your Tortellini Pasta into a pan of salted boiling water. Al dente is key! Follow the packet instructions.
- Brown the sausage. Get your olive oil shimmering in a pan over medium heat. Break up the sausage with a spoon and fry until browned and cooked through.
- Sauté garlic. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook until fragrant, around 1 minute . Oh, that smell!
- Deglaze the pan. Pour in the dry white wine and scrape up all those tasty browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it bubble away for 2 minutes .
- Make the sauce. Stir in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Simmer gently for about 5 minutes , until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Add the mascarpone. Turn the heat right down and stir in the mascarpone until smooth. Don't boil it, or it might split!
- Combine and serve. Chuck in the cooked tortellini and Parmesan. Toss to coat. Add a splash of pasta water if it's too thick. Season to taste and serve with parsley.
Pro Tips for Maximum Deliciousness
Want to take this Creamy Sausage Tortellini to the next level?
- Don't overcook the tortellini. Mushy pasta is a crime.
- Use good quality sausage. It makes a huge difference.
- If you are thinking about make-ahead options this can be made a day in advance and rewarmed with a splash of milk or cream if needed. It will be as if you just made it!
There you have it! A bowl of pure joy. This Italian sausage tortellini recipe for Sausage Tortellini is a proper crowd-pleaser.
So good, you'll be fighting over the leftovers. Enjoy your new favourite Comfort food pasta recipes and don't be shy to experiment with different ingredients like pancetta, which is a great replacement for italian sausage!
Recipe Notes for Your Creamy Sausage Tortellini Masterpiece
Right, so you’ve got the recipe for this Tortellini with Sausage and Mascarpone . Now, let's talk about making it your own.
These are some extra tips and tricks I've learned over time, plus how to store any leftovers. Trust me, this Italian sausage tortellini recipe is gonna become a regular in your house.
Serving Suggestions: Plating and Perfect Pairings
Honestly, presentation makes all the difference. For plating, I like to swirl the Creamy Sausage Tortellini in a bowl. A sprinkle of fresh parsley always looks good.
A dollop of extra mascarpone? Even better!
For sides, a simple green salad is perfect. Something light and zesty cuts through the richness. To drink? A crisp glass of Pinot Grigio.
Chef's kiss ! You can also add a drizzle of good quality olive oil or a sprinkle of chili oil.
Storage Tips: Keeping the Goodness Fresh
Got leftovers? Lucky you!
Refrigeration: Pop any leftover Sausage Tortellini in an airtight container. It'll happily sit in the fridge for up to 3 days .
Freezing: I wouldn't really recommend freezing it. The Mascarpone cheese sauce for pasta might get a bit grainy when defrosted.
If you really have to, freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to a month.
Reheating: Reheat gently in a pan over low heat. Add a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce. Do not microwave unless you are in a rush.
Variations: Tweak It 'Til You Make It!
Want to mix things up? Here are a few ideas:
Dietary Adaptation: Want a Tasty Pasta but fancy a meat-free version? Swap the Italian sausage for sautéed mushrooms or roasted veg.
Seasonal Ingredient Swaps: In the summer, chuck in some sun-dried tomatoes. Autumn? Roasted butternut squash would be amazing.
Mascarpone can be substituted with Ricotta for a similar, but less rich, creamy texture. Italian Sausage can be swapped with pancetta. Heavy cream can be subsituted with milk for a lighter version.
Nutrition Basics: A Bit About the Good Stuff
Okay, I'm not a nutritionist, but let's keep it real. This Comfort food pasta recipes is pretty rich, but hey, life's too short to skip on the good stuff.
Each serving is about 650 calories, with 30g of protein, 45g of fat, and 35g of carbs. The mascarpone cheese sauce for pasta will add extra calories, but they are worth it! The protein comes from the Italian sausage and cheese.
Enjoy this meal in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
So there you have it. This Quick weeknight pasta dinner is easy, adaptable, and oh-so-satisfying. Don't be afraid to experiment and make it your own. Happy cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Tortellini with Sausage and Mascarpone ahead of time? It sounds like a right faff to do on a busy weeknight!
While this dish is best served fresh, you can prep some of the components in advance. Cook the sausage and make the sauce ahead of time, then store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you're ready to eat, cook the tortellini and combine everything together. Just be sure not to overcook the tortellini when reheating, as nobody wants a soggy mess!
My local shop doesn't stock mascarpone. What's a good substitute for mascarpone in this Tortellini with Sausage and Mascarpone recipe?
No mascarpone, no worries! You can substitute it with ricotta cheese for a similar creamy texture, although it won't be quite as rich. Another option, if you're feeling adventurous, is to use a blend of cream cheese and a little bit of heavy cream to loosen it up. Just remember to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
How can I make this Tortellini with Sausage and Mascarpone recipe a bit healthier? I'm trying to be good!
Trying to keep things trim, eh? You can lighten things up by using lean turkey sausage instead of Italian sausage, which will reduce the fat content. Also, consider using milk instead of heavy cream, but bear in mind the final product will be less creamy. Don't forget portion control – even healthy food can contribute to weight gain if you eat too much!
I've got leftover Tortellini with Sausage and Mascarpone. How should I store it and how long will it last?
Leftovers are the best, aren't they? Store your leftover tortellini in an airtight container in the fridge. It will last for up to 3 days. When reheating, you might need to add a splash of milk or broth to loosen up the sauce, as it tends to thicken upon refrigeration. Give it a good stir and make sure it's heated through properly.
Can I freeze Tortellini with Sausage and Mascarpone? I made a massive batch!
Freezing this dish isn't ideal due to the dairy content of the mascarpone and cream, which can sometimes change texture upon thawing. However, if you must, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When thawing, do so in the fridge overnight and reheat gently. Be aware that the sauce may separate slightly, but a good stir should bring it back together.
What other ingredients can I add to the Tortellini with Sausage and Mascarpone?
Loads of things! How about adding some sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra flavor and nutrients? Sun-dried tomatoes or roasted bell peppers would also work a treat. For a bit of heat, consider a pinch of cayenne pepper or using spicy sausage. Get creative – it's your kitchen, after all!
