Sausage Tortellini Alfredo Recipe

If you’re craving that magical combination of creamy, cheesy comfort and perfectly savory sausage, Sausage Tortellini Alfredo is about to become your new weeknight obsession. Pillowy cheese tortellini, juicy brats, and a luscious Alfredo sauce come together in under 30 minutes for a dinner that no one can resist!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Everyone loves a recipe where each ingredient brings something special to the table—and this Sausage Tortellini Alfredo is a prime example. Every item on this short list has a purpose, whether it’s adding richness, a pop of spice, or that iconic cheesy pull. Here’s what you’ll need to make dinnertime magic.

• Three Cheese Tortellini (9-ounce package): Refrigerated tortellini gets ultra-tender and soaks up that Alfredo sauce beautifully.
• Brats (1lb 3oz, like Johnsonville): Juicy bratwurst adds tons of meaty flavor and a satisfying bite—feel free to use your favorite sausage variety here.
• Unsalted Butter (2 tbsp): Creates a rich base for the garlic and helps form that silky roux.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Fresh garlic infuses the sauce with aromatic depth—don’t skimp on this!
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (1/4 tsp): Just a whisper of heat to balance out the creamy cheese (adjust more or less for your spice preference).
• All-Purpose Flour (2 tbsp): Thickens the sauce for irresistibly creamy results.
• Milk (1 cup): Helps create that dreamy, pourable Alfredo texture.
• Heavy Whipping Cream (1/2 cup): Brings the lush, indulgent body to your sauce.
• Cream Cheese (2 oz, cubed): Melts in for extra tanginess and thickness—this is the secret to ultra-silky Alfredo.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese (1/4 cup): Salty, nutty, and absolutely essential for true Alfredo flavor.
• Salt and Pepper, to taste: Your final touch—season as you like!

Variations

One of the best things about Sausage Tortellini Alfredo? You can play with flavors, swap in your favorite sausage, or even sneak in extra vegetables. Let your taste buds lead the way—this recipe is your canvas!

• Make it Veggie-Friendly: Replace the sausage with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or chopped roasted red peppers for a lighter, vegetarian twist.
• Spice It Up: Try spicy Italian sausage or a dash of cayenne if you like things hot.
• Use a Different Pasta: If you can’t find tortellini, swap in gnocchi or even ravioli for a fun change-up.
• Add Greens: Stir in a handful of baby spinach, peas, or kale at the end for a pop of color and nutrition.

How to Make Sausage Tortellini Alfredo

Step 1: Cook the Tortellini

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions, usually just 3–4 minutes for that perfect, pillowy bite. Drain well and set aside—you’ll be folding it into the glorious Alfredo soon!

Step 2: Brown the Brats

In a large skillet or saucepan, cook your brats over medium-high heat until they’re fully cooked and golden brown on the outside. Let them cool for a minute, then slice into thick half-moons. Don’t wipe out the pan—you want all those flavorful juices for your Alfredo base.

Step 3: Start the Sauce

Add the butter to the same pan and let it melt into the sausage drippings. Next, toss in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes and cook, stirring, just until fragrant—about a minute. You’ll notice the aroma already making your kitchen irresistible!

Step 4: Thicken It Up

Sprinkle the flour over the butter, garlic, and red pepper mixture. Whisk constantly until it’s light golden brown, about one minute—this is your roux for the creamiest possible Alfredo sauce. No lumps, just smooth bliss!

Step 5: Build the Alfredo

Slowly whisk in the milk and heavy cream, making sure to scrape up any savory bits from the pan. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens just enough to coat the back of a spoon, around 2–3 minutes. Now, stir in the cubed cream cheese and grated parmesan—let them melt into a dreamy, cheesy sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, just splash in a little more milk until it’s perfect.

Step 6: Bring It All Together

Fold the sliced brats and cooked tortellini into the pan, gently tossing to coat every piece in all that velvety Alfredo. Taste, then season with salt and pepper as you like. Serve Sausage Tortellini Alfredo immediately while the sauce is at its creamiest and most irresistible!

How to Serve Sausage Tortellini Alfredo

Garnishes

A handful of freshly grated parmesan and a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley can truly make your Sausage Tortellini Alfredo pop. For a dash of heat and color, add a pinch of red chili flakes on top—simple, but instantly elevates every bowl.

Side Dishes

This dish is hearty all on its own, but a crisp green salad with balsamic vinaigrette balances out the richness. Think also about garlic bread or warm rustic rolls for that all-important sauce-mopping opportunity!

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your Sausage Tortellini Alfredo in shallow pasta bowls for that trattoria feel, or spoon it into a large, colorful serving platter family-style. For individual flair, sprinkle dishes with extra parmesan and pass around lemon wedges—a squeeze cuts the richness beautifully!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer any leftover Sausage Tortellini Alfredo to an airtight container, and stash it in the refrigerator. It will keep nicely for up to 3 days, making for some seriously envy-inducing lunches!

Freezing

While most creamy pasta dishes can be a bit tricky to freeze, Sausage Tortellini Alfredo holds up better than most thanks to the cream cheese and roux. Cool completely, pack in freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 1 month. Just note, the sauce may separate slightly after thawing, but a good stir on reheat will bring it back together.

Reheating

For the best results, reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring often and adding a splash of milk or cream to achieve the original creamy consistency. If microwaving, cover loosely and stir halfway to keep the sauce silky.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a cozy, crowd-pleasing meal with guaranteed comfort in every bite, Sausage Tortellini Alfredo deserves a spot on your menu this week. I hope you give it a try—don’t be surprised when everyone asks for seconds!

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