Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Tortellini with Italian Sausage & Spinach

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Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Tortellini with Italian Sausage & Spinach is the kind of comfort food that feels indulgent, yet comes together easily on a busy weeknight. This dish is rich, flavorful, and packed with savory elements—plump cheese-filled tortellini, hearty Italian sausage, tender baby spinach, and a luscious garlic butter cream sauce that ties it all together. Every bite delivers a balanced mix of creamy, garlicky decadence and rustic Italian warmth.

It’s a one-pan wonder that feels like a restaurant-quality meal but uses simple ingredients and pantry staples. Whether you’re cooking for your family or treating yourself to a cozy night in, this tortellini recipe is fast enough for a quick dinner and fancy enough to impress dinner guests. Plus, it’s highly customizable—add mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or swap the sausage for a vegetarian option. Either way, you’re in for a treat.

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Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Tortellini with Italian Sausage & Spinach

• Full of flavor: A rich combination of savory Italian sausage, cheesy tortellini, and a silky garlic butter cream sauce.
• Quick & easy: From stove to table in under 30 minutes—perfect for weeknights.
• One-pan meal: Minimal cleanup and maximum satisfaction.
• Flexible & customizable: Easy to adapt with your favorite greens, protein, or extra veggies.
• Comforting & hearty: Ideal for cooler evenings or when you just want something soul-warming.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

(Essential Tools and Equipment + Their Importance)

Before diving into this flavorful tortellini dish, setting up your kitchen with the right tools will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Large Skillet or Sauté Pan (12-inch preferred): This is the heart of this one-pan recipe. It needs to be wide and deep enough to hold the sausage, tortellini, sauce, and spinach without overcrowding.
• Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: For breaking up the sausage and stirring the sauce gently without scratching your pan.
• Chef’s Knife & Cutting Board: Essential for chopping garlic or prepping any optional add-ins like mushrooms or herbs.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: While this recipe is forgiving, accurate measurements for cream, broth, and seasonings help maintain balance.
• Colander: If your tortellini isn’t pre-cooked or if you decide to boil it separately for texture control, a colander will come in handy.
• Tongs: Ideal for tossing the tortellini and spinach in the creamy sauce without mashing them.

Having everything prepped and within reach before you turn on the heat will make this a no-stress cooking experience.

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Preparation Tips

• Use fresh or refrigerated tortellini: It cooks quickly and absorbs the flavors of the sauce better than frozen alternatives.
• Don’t overcook the sausage: Cook it until just browned. It’ll finish cooking while simmering in the sauce, keeping it juicy.
• Chop garlic fresh: Minced fresh garlic gives a stronger, more vibrant flavor than pre-minced jarred garlic.
• Warm your cream slightly before adding it to the pan to avoid splitting or curdling.
• Add spinach at the end: Stir it in during the last minute or two of cooking. This keeps the leaves tender and bright without turning mushy.
• Reserve some pasta water (if boiling tortellini separately): It can help loosen the sauce if needed without diluting the flavor.

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Ingredients for This Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Tortellini with Italian Sausage & Spinach

Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this dish together. The ingredients are simple, but when combined, they deliver big flavor:

• 1 lb refrigerated beef or cheese tortellini
  (Refrigerated tortellini cooks quickly and absorbs flavor well.)
• 1/2 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casing removed
  (Adds hearty, savory depth to the dish.)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  (Forms the base of the garlic butter sauce.)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
  (The star of the sauce—punchy and aromatic.)
• 1 cup heavy cream
  (Provides richness and that luscious, creamy texture.)
• 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  (Helps thin the sauce and balance the richness.)
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  (A blend of herbs to tie everything together.)
• Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
  (Seasoning essentials.)
• 2 cups fresh baby spinach
  (Adds color, nutrition, and a pop of freshness.)
• 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  (Melted into the sauce for extra flavor and creaminess.)
• Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes
  (Adds subtle heat for those who like a kick.)

You can easily double the recipe if you’re serving a crowd, or adjust the spice level depending on your preference by choosing hot or mild sausage.

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Step 1: Brown the Italian Sausage

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the sausage (casings removed). Break it up with a wooden spoon or spatula and cook until browned and no longer pink—about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed, but leave a little behind for flavor.

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Step 2: Add the Garlic and Butter

Lower the heat slightly and add the butter directly to the sausage. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant—be careful not to let it burn.

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Step 3: Build the Cream Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, then stir in Italian seasoning. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan (flavor gold!). Let the sauce simmer for 3–4 minutes, allowing it to slightly thicken.

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Step 4: Cook the Tortellini in the Sauce

Add the tortellini directly to the pan. Stir gently to coat it in the sauce. Cover and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tortellini is tender and heated through. If using frozen tortellini, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

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Step 5: Stir in Spinach and Parmesan

Once the tortellini is cooked, stir in the fresh spinach. Let it wilt for 1–2 minutes, then add the grated Parmesan. Stir until melted and creamy. If the sauce thickens too much, loosen it with a splash of broth or pasta water.

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Step 6: Season and Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs if desired.

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Notes

• Use refrigerated tortellini for best texture and quicker cooking—no need to pre-boil.
• Don’t skip the garlic butter step; it’s what gives this dish its signature richness and aroma.
• Add spinach at the very end to keep it vibrant and tender, not soggy.
• To make it lighter, swap heavy cream with half-and-half, but expect a thinner sauce.
• For extra protein, add more sausage or toss in shredded rotisserie chicken.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking the tortellini: Tortellini only needs a few minutes. Overcooking can make it mushy and ruin the dish’s texture.
• Boiling the cream: Keep the heat at a simmer once the cream is added. Boiling may cause it to split or curdle.
• Adding spinach too early: It wilts fast—stir it in just before turning off the heat.
• Not seasoning in layers: Taste as you go. The sausage is salty, but the cream and pasta will dull flavors if not adjusted.
• Using too much Parmesan too soon: It can clump if added before the sauce has time to emulsify properly. Stir it in last for a smooth, creamy finish.
• Skipping deglazing: Those browned sausage bits stuck to the pan are loaded with flavor—deglazing with broth lifts and infuses them into the sauce.
• Using low-fat cream: It may not thicken or taste as rich. Stick to heavy cream or be ready to adjust.
• Crowding the pan: If you’re doubling the recipe, use a larger pan or cook in batches to avoid uneven cooking.

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What to Serve With Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Tortellini with Italian Sausage & Spinach

This rich and savory pasta dish pairs beautifully with sides that balance its creaminess or add a little crunch, acidity, or freshness. Whether you’re serving it for a casual family dinner or a cozy gathering, these accompaniments will round out the meal perfectly.

8 Recommendations

1. Garlic Bread or Cheesy Breadsticks
   Classic and satisfying—use them to soak up every last bit of that velvety garlic butter sauce.
2. Simple Arugula Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
   The peppery bite of arugula and tangy citrus dressing provide contrast to the richness of the pasta.
3. Roasted Vegetables
   Try a mix of zucchini, bell peppers, and red onions—roasting brings out their natural sweetness and balances the creamy main dish.
4. Caprese Salad
   Tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil, and balsamic glaze offer a fresh and cool counterpart to the warm pasta.
5. Crispy Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Drizzle
   Their caramelized edges and hint of acidity are a fantastic complement to creamy tortellini.
6. Caesar Salad
   Crunchy romaine, Parmesan, and garlicky dressing match the Italian flavor profile while adding texture.
7. Antipasto Platter
   Serve before the meal or alongside—olives, artichoke hearts, cured meats, and marinated veggies provide a savory contrast.
8. Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest
   Light and elegant, it brings brightness and a slight char that elevates the entire meal.

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Storage Instructions

Leftovers of Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Tortellini with Italian Sausage & Spinach store beautifully and reheat well, making them perfect for meal prep or next-day lunches.

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. The sauce may thicken as it sits, but can easily be loosened with a splash of milk or broth during reheating.
• Freezing: Not recommended for this dish due to the cream-based sauce and tortellini, which may become grainy or overly soft after thawing.
• Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring in between. Add a little liquid if needed to restore the creaminess.

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Estimated Nutrition

(Per serving; recipe makes approximately 4 servings)

• Calories: 640 kcal
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugars: 3g
• Fat: 43g
• Saturated Fat: 21g
• Unsaturated Fat: 18g
• Trans Fat: 0.5g
• Cholesterol: 110mg
• Sodium: 820mg

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary depending on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen tortellini instead of fresh or refrigerated?

Yes, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time slightly. Frozen tortellini can also release more water, so adjust the sauce as needed to maintain its creamy texture.

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2. What type of sausage works best for this recipe?

Mild or spicy Italian sausage (pork or chicken) works great. You can also use ground beef, turkey, or a plant-based sausage for a lighter or vegetarian version.

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3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prep the sauce and sausage mixture ahead, but for the best texture, cook and serve the tortellini fresh. If you must make it ahead, undercook the pasta slightly and reheat gently with extra cream or broth.

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4. How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Simply omit the sausage and use a plant-based alternative or increase the vegetables (like mushrooms, zucchini, or sun-dried tomatoes) for added heartiness.

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5. Can I substitute the heavy cream?

Yes, but be aware that the sauce will be lighter and less rich. You can use half-and-half or whole milk, though the texture won’t be as silky. Stir in a bit of cream cheese to thicken if needed.

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6. What if my sauce is too thick?

Add a splash of chicken broth, milk, or reserved pasta water to loosen it. Stir gently to bring it back to a creamy consistency without thinning it too much.

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7. Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely! The creamy, cheesy sauce and pasta are usually a big hit with kids. If you’re worried about spice, use mild sausage and skip the red pepper flakes.

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8. Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Yes, just make sure to use a large enough skillet or cook in two batches. Doubling the sauce and tortellini works well for feeding a larger group or meal prepping.

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Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Tortellini with Italian Sausage & Spinach brings bold Italian flavors to your dinner table with minimal effort and maximum satisfaction. It’s rich, comforting, and endlessly versatile—perfect for weeknights when you need something hearty, or weekends when you’re craving a little indulgence. Whether you’re serving it with garlic bread and salad or enjoying it all on its own, this dish is bound to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Simple, satisfying, and full of flavor—just the way pasta night should be.

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