If you’re craving a comforting, flavorful pasta dish that comes together in under 30 minutes, Creamy Tomato Basil Tortelloni with Chicken Sausage (Turkey) is exactly what you need. This recipe combines pillowy cheese-filled tortelloni with juicy turkey chicken sausage, fresh cherry tomatoes, and a velvety cream sauce infused with aromatic basil. It’s an all-in-one meal that feels indulgent but is surprisingly simple to make. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy everyone at the table.
Why This Recipe is a Keeper
This Creamy Tomato Basil Tortelloni with Chicken Sausage (Turkey) recipe is a keeper because it balances rich creaminess with bright, fresh flavors effortlessly. The turkey chicken sausage adds a lean protein that’s packed with flavor but not heavy, while the tortelloni provides that luscious, cheesy bite that feels like a hug in pasta form. The cherry tomatoes burst with juiciness, cutting through the cream sauce and adding natural sweetness. Plus, the fresh basil brings a fragrant, herbaceous note that elevates the entire dish. It’s a perfect harmony of textures and flavors that come together quickly and with minimal fuss. You can easily customize it to your liking, making it a versatile go-to meal.
What Goes Into Creamy Tomato Basil Tortelloni with Chicken Sausage (Turkey)
- 12 ounces tortelloni: Choose cheese-filled tortelloni for the best melty center.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing the sausage and tomatoes.
- 1 pound chicken sausage, sliced: Opt for turkey-based chicken sausage for a leaner protein option.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Adds sweetness and acidity.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the luscious sauce base.
- 1 cup fresh basil, chopped: Brings fresh, herbaceous brightness.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds depth and subtle spice.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning.
- Parmesan cheese for serving: Adds umami and a salty finish.
Tools of the Trade
- Large pot: For boiling the tortelloni.
- Large skillet or sauté pan: To cook the sausage and make the sauce.
- Colander: For draining the pasta.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula: To stir and combine ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For precise ingredient amounts.
- Knife and cutting board: For slicing sausage and chopping basil.
Make Creamy Tomato Basil Tortelloni with Chicken Sausage (Turkey): A Simple Method
Step 1: Cook the Tortelloni
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 ounces of tortelloni and cook according to package instructions, usually about 3-5 minutes, until al dente. Drain well and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water for later.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken Sausage
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 pound of sliced turkey chicken sausage and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove sausage from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Cherry Tomatoes
In the same skillet, add the halved cherry tomatoes. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and juices begin to release. This will add a natural sweetness and slight tang to the sauce.
Step 4: Make the Cream Sauce
Reduce heat to low and pour in 1 cup of heavy cream. Stir in 1 teaspoon garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Let the cream simmer gently for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the browned chicken sausage to the skillet. Add the cooked tortelloni and chopped fresh basil. Toss everything together gently, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time if the sauce needs loosening.
Step 6: Serve
Divide the creamy tortelloni and sausage among plates. Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and extra basil if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Make It Your Way
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or coconut cream for a lighter or dairy-free option.
- Use spinach or arugula instead of basil for a different herbaceous note.
- Incorporate sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for extra veggies and texture.
- Try a vegan sausage alternative and plant-based cream to make it fully plant-based.
Things That Go Wrong
- Sauce too thin: Let it simmer longer to reduce or stir in a little cornstarch slurry.
- Sausage not cooked through: Slice thinner or cook a bit longer to ensure it’s fully done.
- Pasta sticking together: Stir tortelloni occasionally while boiling and rinse with cold water if not serving immediately.
- Overcooked basil: Add basil at the end to keep its fresh flavor and vibrant color.
Meal Prep & Storage Notes
This Creamy Tomato Basil Tortelloni with Chicken Sausage (Turkey) holds up well for meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce, warming gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Avoid overcooking during reheating to keep the tortelloni tender and the sauce creamy.
Ask the Chef
Can I use frozen tortelloni instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen tortelloni works just as well; just add an extra minute or two to the boiling time. Make sure to thaw if the package instructions recommend it, and keep an eye on the pasta so it doesn’t overcook.
Is there a substitute for heavy cream?
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce or use coconut cream for a dairy-free version. Just note that coconut cream will add a subtle coconut flavor, which pairs nicely with the other ingredients.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sausage and sauce up to a day in advance and store them separately from the pasta. Combine and warm everything just before serving for the best texture.
What’s the best way to keep the basil fresh in this dish?
Add the chopped fresh basil at the very end of cooking or just before serving. This preserves its bright flavor and vibrant green color, preventing it from becoming wilted or bitter.
Next Steps
Ready to make this Creamy Tomato Basil Tortelloni with Chicken Sausage (Turkey)? Gather your ingredients and tools, and set aside about 30 minutes for a delicious meal that will quickly become a family favorite. Don’t hesitate to experiment with the add-ins and adjustments to suit your taste buds perfectly. After you try it, share the recipe with friends and bookmark it for easy weeknight dinners that feel special without the fuss.
This dish brings together the best of fresh herbs, tender pasta, savory sausage, and a rich sauce for a truly comforting experience. Enjoy every creamy, flavorful bite!
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Creamy Tomato Basil Tortelloni with Chicken Sausage (Turkey)
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 ounces of tortelloni and cook according to package instructions, usually about 3-5 minutes, until al dente. Drain well and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water for later.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 pound of sliced turkey chicken sausage and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove sausage from the pan and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the halved cherry tomatoes. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and juices begin to release.
- Reduce heat to low and pour in 1 cup of heavy cream. Stir in 1 teaspoon garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Let the cream simmer gently for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Return the browned chicken sausage to the skillet. Add the cooked tortelloni and chopped fresh basil. Toss everything together gently, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time if the sauce needs loosening.
- Divide the creamy tortelloni and sausage among plates. Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and extra basil if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or coconut cream for a lighter or dairy-free option.
- Use spinach or arugula instead of basil for a different herbaceous note.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently adding cream or milk to loosen sauce.
- Add fresh basil at the end to preserve its bright flavor and color.
