Creamy Tortellini and Sausage Skillet

Creamy Tortellini and Sausage Skillet

Ingredients:

• 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed (you can choose mild or spicy)
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 (9-ounce) package of cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook the Sausage:
   • In a large skillet over medium heat, add the sausage and onion. Cook until the sausage is browned and the onions are soft, breaking up the sausage with a spoon as it cooks.
   • Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Add Liquids and Seasonings:
   • Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
   • Add the dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
3. Cook the Tortellini:
   • Add the tortellini to the skillet. Simmer for about 5 minutes or according to the package instructions until the tortellini are tender and cooked through.
4. Finish the Dish:
   • Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and mixed into the sauce.
   • Continue to cook for a couple more minutes until the sauce is slightly thickened.
5. Garnish and Serve:
   • Remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley.
   • Serve hot directly from the skillet.

Tips:

• For a lighter version: Substitute the heavy cream with half and half or a combination of milk and cream.
• Add vegetables: To incorporate more nutrients, you can add spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the skillet along with the sausage.
• Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes while cooking the sausage for an extra kick.

This creamy, cheesy dish is perfect for a comforting dinner and can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Enjoy!