Creamy Tortellini Pasta with Beef, Spinach & Italian Sausage

Creamy Tortellini Pasta with Beef, Spinach & Italian Sausage is a rich and satisfying dish perfect for family dinners or special occasions. The combination of tender tortellini, savory beef, and vibrant spinach in a creamy sauce makes this recipe a standout. It’s easy to prepare and packed with flavors that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Creamy: The creamy sauce made with cheese and spices coats every bite, enhancing the flavors.
• Quick and Easy: With a cooking time of just 30 minutes, you can whip up this hearty meal in no time.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily substitute ingredients based on what you have at home or your flavor preferences.
• Family-Friendly: This dish appeals to both kids and adults, making it a great choice for family gatherings.
• Comfort Food Classic: Perfect for cozy nights in, this recipe brings warmth and satisfaction to the table.

Tools and Preparation

To make Creamy Tortellini Pasta with Beef, Spinach & Italian Sausage, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will streamline the cooking process and ensure great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Saucepan
• Whisk
• Colander

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for boiling the tortellini efficiently without crowding.
• Skillet: Perfect for browning the beef and sausage evenly while adding depth to the flavor.
• Saucepan: Necessary for making the creamy sauce that binds all ingredients together.

Ingredients

For the Tortellini

• 20 ounces refrigerated cheese tortellini

For the Meat Mixture

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 pound Italian sausage (casings removed)
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 10 ounces frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry

For the Sauce

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups whole milk
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

For Seasoning

• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

How to Make Creamy Tortellini Pasta with Beef, Spinach & Italian Sausage

Step 1: Cook the Tortellini

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook according to the package instructions, about 35 minutes. Drain using a colander and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Meat

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil. Add the ground beef and Italian sausage. Break them apart as they cook until browned and fully cooked, about 7-9 minutes. Drain off any excess fat.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

Stir in the chopped onion. Cook for about 4-5 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Mix in the spinach and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes while stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

In a separate large saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in flour; cook for 1 minute to create a smooth roux. Slowly pour in milk and chicken broth while whisking to prevent lumps. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Step 5: Add Dairy & Seasonings

Lower the heat; stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, Cajun seasoning, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir until everything is smooth and creamy.

Step 6: Combine Ingredients

Add cooked tortellini along with the meat-spinach mixture into the sauce. Stir gently until everything is evenly coated in that rich cheesy garlic butter sauce.

Step 7: Serve

Serve hot! Optionally sprinkle extra Parmesan or fresh herbs on top if you like.

Enjoy your delicious Creamy Tortellini Pasta with Beef, Spinach & Italian Sausage!

How to Serve Creamy Tortellini Pasta with Beef, Spinach & Italian Sausage

Serving Creamy Tortellini Pasta with Beef, Spinach & Italian Sausage can elevate your meal experience. This dish is rich, flavorful, and versatile, making it perfect for various occasions.

Pair with Garlic Bread

• Garlic Bread – Serve warm slices of garlic bread for a crunchy and buttery complement to the creamy pasta.

Add a Side Salad

• Mixed Green Salad – A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Fresh Basil or Parsley – Finishing your pasta with chopped fresh herbs adds vibrant flavor and color to your plate.

Serve in Individual Bowls

• Individual Portions – Presenting the pasta in individual bowls makes for an elegant serving option at dinner parties or gatherings.

Accompany with Parmesan Cheese

• Extra Parmesan – Offering freshly grated Parmesan on the side allows guests to customize their cheese levels.

How to Perfect Creamy Tortellini Pasta with Beef, Spinach & Italian Sausage

Perfecting this creamy dish involves attention to detail and a few culinary tricks that enhance flavor and texture.

• Bold seasoning – Adjust the seasoning according to your taste. Adding more Cajun seasoning can give an extra kick.
• Quality cheeses – Use high-quality Parmesan and mozzarella for optimal creaminess and flavor.
• Proper cooking of tortellini – Ensure you don’t overcook the tortellini; it should be al dente for the best texture.
• Thickening consistency – If your sauce is too thin, let it simmer longer until it reaches your desired thickness.
• Fresh spinach option – Consider using fresh spinach instead of frozen for a fresher taste and texture.
• Experiment with spices – Don’t hesitate to tweak or add other spices like crushed red pepper for added warmth.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Tortellini Pasta with Beef, Spinach & Italian Sausage

Pairing side dishes with your creamy tortellini enhances the dining experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli provides a nutritious counterbalance to the rich pasta.
2. Roasted Vegetables – A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted to perfection adds both flavor and color to your meal.
3. Caesar Salad – A classic Caesar salad complements the creamy dish well, providing crunch and tanginess.
4. Caprese Skewers – Fresh mozzarella balls, basil leaves, and cherry tomatoes on skewers offer a refreshing bite.
5. Zucchini Noodles – For a lighter option, serve zucchini noodles seasoned simply as a low-carb side.
6. Stuffed Mushrooms – Savory stuffed mushrooms bring earthy flavors that pair wonderfully with creamy pasta.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Tortellini Pasta with Beef, Spinach & Italian Sausage, certain mistakes can hinder your dish’s flavor and texture. Here are common pitfalls to avoid.

• Not cooking the tortellini properly: Overcooking or undercooking the tortellini can ruin the dish. Follow the package instructions closely for perfect texture.
• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season your meat and sauce can lead to bland flavors. Use salt, pepper, and spices generously for enhanced taste.
• Using low-quality cheese: Cheap cheeses may not melt well and can affect the creaminess of your dish. Opt for high-quality Parmesan and mozzarella for best results.
• Ignoring the spinach moisture: Adding wet spinach can make your sauce watery. Ensure that you squeeze out excess moisture before mixing it in.
• Rushing the sauce preparation: Making a creamy sauce requires patience. Allow it to simmer and thicken properly; don’t rush this step for optimal creaminess.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The creamy tortellini pasta can be kept in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing Creamy Tortellini Pasta with Beef, Spinach & Italian Sausage

• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months; label containers with dates for reference.

Reheating Creamy Tortellini Pasta with Beef, Spinach & Italian Sausage

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring often to avoid sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Creamy Tortellini Pasta with Beef, Spinach & Italian Sausage.

Can I use turkey instead of beef?

Yes! You can easily substitute ground turkey for ground beef in this recipe without losing flavor.

Is there a vegetarian option for Creamy Tortellini Pasta with Beef, Spinach & Italian Sausage?

Absolutely! Replace meat with sautéed mushrooms or more vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini.

How do I make this dish spicier?

To add spice, include red pepper flakes or increase the amount of Cajun seasoning according to your taste preference.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the components ahead of time and assemble just before serving for a fresh meal.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Tortellini Pasta with Beef, Spinach & Italian Sausage is a delightful blend of flavors that’s perfect for any dinner table. Its creamy texture pairs beautifully with customizable ingredients; feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust spices. Give it a try—you’ll love how easy it is!

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Creamy Tortellini Pasta with Beef, Spinach & Italian Sausage

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Creamy Tortellini Pasta with Beef and Spinach is a deliciously rich dish that combines tender cheese tortellini with savory ground beef, vibrant spinach, and a smooth, creamy sauce. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this recipe is quick to prepare and packed with flavors that appeal to everyone.

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 20 ounces refrigerated cheese tortellini
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 10 ounces frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups whole milk
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Cook tortellini in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions; drain.
2. In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown ground beef until fully cooked; drain excess fat.
3. Add chopped onion to the skillet and sauté until softened. Stir in minced garlic and spinach; cook briefly.
4. In a saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour to form a roux. Gradually add milk and chicken broth, simmering until thickened.
5. Stir in heavy cream, cheeses, seasonings, salt, and pepper; combine until smooth.
6. Mix cooked tortellini with meat-spinach mixture and creamy sauce until evenly coated.
7. Serve hot with optional toppings like fresh herbs or extra cheese.

• Author: Diary
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 545
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 770mg
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 16g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 41g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 32g
• Cholesterol: 105mg