One Pot Stick of Butter Tortellini

One Pot Stick of Butter Tortellini is a creamy rich pasta dish that comes together quickly and easily in just one pot. It combines tender cheese tortellini with flavorful chicken Italian sausage in a luscious buttery sauce made with cream cream cheese and parmesan making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something comforting satisfying and fuss free without compromising on taste.

I first made this during a hectic weeknight and was amazed at how simple it was yet everyone asked for seconds. It quickly became a go to meal in our house because of its creamy comforting taste and fast prep.

Ingredients

• Chicken Italian sausage: One pound diced or sliced for protein and depth of flavor choose high quality sausage with herbs or mild spice depending on taste preference
• Cheese tortellini: Twenty four ounces any fresh or frozen variety works well opt for good quality for best texture
• Garlic and herb butter: One stick adds the rich buttery base and aromatic flavor
• Heavy cream: One cup for luxurious creaminess and smooth sauce
• Garlic and herb whipped cream cheese: Four ounces adds rich tang and smooth texture
• Grated parmesan cheese: One cup provides sharp savory notes and melts beautifully into the sauce
• Black pepper: One and a half teaspoons for balanced spice and warmth
• Onion powder: One and a half teaspoons for subtle sweetness and complexity
• Italian seasoning: Two teaspoons combination of dried herbs enhances aromatic depth
• Red pepper flakes: One teaspoon optional for mild heat adjust to taste
• Beef broth: One and a half cups to create flavorful cooking liquid that infuses the tortellini
• Fresh basil leaves: For bright herbal finish to garnish and uplift the dish

Instructions

Step 1 Cook the Sausage:

Start by cutting the chicken Italian sausage into bite sized pieces Heat a large pot over medium high heat and cook the sausage until fully browned and cooked through This releases the flavorful fats and creates a savory base Once done remove the cooked sausage and set it aside

Step 2 Prepare the Sauce:

Lower the heat to medium low and give the pot a moment to cool slightly Add the stick of garlic and herb butter followed by the minced garlic Stir constantly and cook for about one minute until the garlic is fragrant but not browned This step infuses the butter with garlic aroma making the sauce delicious from the start

Step 3 Combine Ingredients:

Add all seasonings next including black pepper onion powder Italian seasoning and the red pepper flakes if using Stir to evenly distribute the spices Pour in the beef broth carefully then add the heavy cream Mix well to combine all liquids with the butter and spices forming a rich sauce base

Step 4 Cook the Tortellini:

Add the cheese tortellini directly to the pot then stir in the whipped garlic and herb cream cheese Cover the pot with a lid and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer Cook for about ten minutes until the tortellini puff up and absorb the creamy sauce Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking

Step 5 Finish Up:

Once the tortellini are tender stir in the grated parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves Add the cooked sausage back into the pot and fold it through gently until every bite is coated in the luscious sauce Serve immediately for the best creamy texture and full flavor

The star ingredient for me is definitely the garlic and herb butter which sets the tone for the entire dish adding a rich savory depth I remember making this for a cozy family dinner one rainy night and every bite was met with delighted smiles and requests to add it to the regular rotation

Storage tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days Let the dish cool completely before refrigerating to keep the sauce smooth and fresh When reheating add a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce for the best consistency

Ingredient substitutions

You can swap chicken Italian sausage for turkey sausage or even crumbled breakfast sausage for a different flavor profile Use spinach or bell peppers to add veggies or substitute vegetable broth for beef broth to keep it lighter and vegetarian friendly

Serving suggestions

This tortellini pairs wonderfully with a crisp mixed greens salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette for brightness Garlic bread or crusty rolls are perfect for sopping up the rich sauce Roasted or steamed broccoli adds a healthy element and color contrast

Serve immediately with extra basil and parmesan for the best creamy texture. It makes a comforting weeknight meal the whole family will enjoy.

Common Questions About Recipes

→ What makes this tortellini dish creamy?

The combination of butter, heavy cream, and cream cheese creates a rich and smooth sauce that coats the tortellini perfectly.

→ Can I use different proteins instead of Italian sausage?

Yes, chicken, turkey, or other proteins work well and can be added to suit your taste preferences.

→ How long does it take to cook this dish?

The entire meal comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for quick and satisfying dinners.

→ Is it possible to adjust the spice level?

Yes, simply add or omit red pepper flakes to control the heat according to your preference.

→ How can I serve this dish for variety?

Pair it with fresh salads, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables to enhance the flavors and add texture.