If you are looking for a dish that feels like a warm, comforting embrace on a plate, look no further than this Sausage Tortellini Alfredo Recipe. It’s a perfect fusion of tender three cheese tortellini and savory bratwurst, all swimming in a luscious, creamy Alfredo sauce that’s rich with garlic and parmesan goodness. This dish takes classic Italian indulgence and boosts it with hearty sausage flavor, making it a weeknight favorite or an impressive dinner for friends and family. The combination of textures and tastes will have everyone asking for seconds, and you’ll love how simple it is to make with straightforward ingredients and quick steps.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All the ingredients for this recipe are simple but essential, each bringing a touch of flavor, creaminess, or texture that makes the dish sing. From the cheesy tortellini to the rich cream cheese in the sauce, every item plays a star role in creating this unforgettable meal.
- 9-ounce package refrigerated three cheese tortellini: Provides the tender, cheesy pasta base that’s perfect for soaking up the Alfredo sauce.
- 1lb 3oz package brats (I used Johnsonville Brats): Adds hearty, savory sausage flavor that makes the dish satisfyingly rich.
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter: Used to create the silky richness in the sauce and cook the garlic to perfection.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the sauce with aromatic depth and a little bite.
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes: Brings a subtle heat that brightens the rich creaminess.
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the sauce to a perfectly smooth, velvety consistency.
- 1 cup milk: Adds creaminess and balances the richness of the butter and cheese.
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream: Elevates the sauce into something indulgent and silky.
- 2 ounces cream cheese, cubed: Brings luscious texture and a slightly tangy creaminess to the sauce.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds sharp, nutty flavor that defines the Alfredo sauce.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors together beautifully.
How to Make Sausage Tortellini Alfredo Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Tortellini
Bring a generous pot of salted water to a boil and add the refrigerated three cheese tortellini. Cooking it just until tender but still firm ensures the pasta will hold its shape and soak up the Alfredo sauce perfectly. Once done, drain the tortellini and set it aside for later.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
In a large saucepan, cook the bratwurst over medium heat until they are browned and cooked through. The fragrant searing of the sausage adds an irresistible layer of flavor to the dish. After cooking, remove the brats from the pan, slice them into bite-sized pieces, and set them aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
Using the sausage drippings still left in the pan, add the butter and allow it to melt gently. Then add the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes, sautéing everything for about a minute until fragrant and aromatic. This step infuses the sauce with a subtle heat and robust flavor.
Step 4: Thicken the Sauce
Sprinkle the flour over the butter and garlic mixture and whisk constantly until the flour is lightly browned. This roux is the key to creating a velvety sauce. Gradually stir in the milk and heavy cream, continuing to whisk until the sauce thickens to a luscious consistency that coats the back of a spoon.
Step 5: Add the Cheeses
Reduce the heat and stir in the cubed cream cheese along with the grated Parmesan. Allow the cheeses to melt smoothly into the sauce, temping and adjusting the consistency with a splash more milk if needed. The cream cheese gives the sauce an irresistibly smooth texture, while the Parmesan deepens the flavor.
Step 6: Combine Sausage and Tortellini
Bring it all together by adding the sliced sausage and cooked tortellini into the creamy Alfredo sauce. Toss gently to coat everything evenly. Finish by seasoning with salt and pepper to enhance all the rich, savory flavors before serving immediately while hot and comforting.
How to Serve Sausage Tortellini Alfredo Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil can brighten the dish visually and add a fresh herbal note. Shaved Parmesan on top not only looks elegant but also provides an extra cheesy hit that melts delightfully with the warm pasta. For an extra pop of flavor, a dash of cracked black pepper right before serving elevates every bite.
Side Dishes
The creamy richness of this Sausage Tortellini Alfredo Recipe pairs beautifully with crisp, green salads dressed in tangy vinaigrettes, which cut through the heaviness with refreshing acidity. Garlic bread or warm, crusty Italian bread is fantastic for mopping up every last bit of that delicious sauce. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts offer a hearty and healthy complement.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try plating the dish in shallow bowls to showcase the creamy sauce pooling around the tortellini and sausage. You can also bake the combined pasta and sauce in a casserole dish topped with mozzarella for a bubbly, golden crust that adds texture contrast. Individual serving ramekins make for charming presentation at dinner parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftover Sausage Tortellini Alfredo Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld together more overnight, making leftovers deliciously convenient. Be sure to keep it covered to preserve moisture and prevent the sauce from drying out.
Freezing
While freezing freshly made Sausage Tortellini Alfredo Recipe is possible, the creamy sauce may sometimes separate or change texture slightly on thawing. If you want to freeze, it’s best to store the tortellini and sausage separately from the sauce when possible and combine after reheating. Use freezer-safe containers and consume within 2 months for best quality.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently and adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce if it has thickened or separated. Microwaving in short bursts with stirring in between also works well. Avoid high heat to prevent the sauce from breaking or curdling.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage for this recipe?
Absolutely! While bratwurst add a nice mild and slightly sweet flavor, Italian sausage or spicy chorizo can give the dish a different kick. Just make sure the sausage is cooked thoroughly before adding it to the sauce.
Is it possible to make the Alfredo sauce dairy-free?
Traditional Alfredo sauce relies heavily on dairy for its creamy texture and flavor. However, you can substitute with non-dairy alternatives like coconut cream and vegan cream cheese, but keep in mind the flavor profile will change quite a bit.
Can I prepare parts of the recipe in advance?
Yes! You can cook the sausage and pasta ahead of time and refrigerate them separately. When ready, quickly prepare the sauce and combine everything to serve fresh, saving valuable time without compromising flavor.
What wine pairs well with Sausage Tortellini Alfredo Recipe?
A medium-bodied white wine like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio complements the creamy Alfredo sauce and the sausage’s savory notes. If you prefer red, a light Pinot Noir works nicely without overpowering the dish.
How can I adjust the spice level?
The crushed red pepper flakes give a gentle heat that enhances the flavors. If you prefer it milder, simply omit them. To add more heat, increase the amount or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a bolder kick.
Final Thoughts
This Sausage Tortellini Alfredo Recipe is comfort food at its finest—simple to make, deeply satisfying, and packed with flavors that delight every time. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this dish offers creamy richness with a hearty twist that’s bound to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Trust me, once you’ve tasted it, you’ll keep coming back for more!
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Sausage Tortellini Alfredo Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Sausage Tortellini Alfredo is a creamy, comforting pasta dish featuring tender three cheese tortellini and flavorful bratwurst sausage in a rich homemade Alfredo sauce. Ready in just 25 minutes, it combines sautéed garlic and spices with a velvety blend of cream cheese, parmesan, and heavy cream for a delicious meal perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 9-ounce package refrigerated three cheese tortellini
For the Sausage:
- 1 lb 3 oz package bratwursts (Johnsonville Brats recommended)
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 ounces cream cheese, cubed
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook Tortellini: Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the refrigerated three cheese tortellini according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the tortellini and set it aside to be combined later.
- Cook Brats: In a large saucepan over medium heat, cook the bratwursts until they are fully cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the sausages from the pan, slice them into bite-sized pieces, and set aside.
- Prepare Sauce: With the brat cooking juices still in the pan, add the unsalted butter and let it melt over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. Stir in the flour and whisk continuously for a couple of minutes until the mixture is lightly browned, which will help thicken the sauce.
- Build the Alfredo Sauce: Gradually pour in the milk and heavy whipping cream while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to whisk and cook until the sauce slightly thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Add Cheeses: Stir in the cubed cream cheese and grated parmesan until fully melted and the sauce is smooth. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash more milk to adjust the consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine and Serve: Add the sliced bratwurst and cooked tortellini to the sauce, stirring gently to ensure everything is well coated. Heat through for a minute or two until piping hot. Serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes according to your preference.
- Use freshly grated parmesan cheese for the best flavor and melting quality.
- You can substitute whole milk with a lower-fat milk, but the sauce may be less creamy.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
- Adding fresh parsley as a garnish adds a nice fresh contrast and color to the dish.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
