Description

This baked cheese tortellini with Italian sausage creamy pasta casserole is the ultimate comfort food—cheesy, hearty, and packed with bold Italian flavors. Tender cheese tortellini is folded into a rich, tomato-infused cream sauce with browned Italian sausage, garlic, and spinach, then topped with Parmesan cheese and baked to bubbly perfection. Whether you’re making it ahead, freezing it, or serving it fresh from the oven, this casserole is a reliable crowd-pleaser that’s easy enough for weeknights and impressive enough for guests.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 lb beef sausage (casings removed, if applicable)
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
2 cups chicken broth
3/4 cup heavy cream
1 package (9 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini
2 cups fresh spinach
Salt and black pepper to taste
Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the beef sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked.

Add the garlic, onion, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Cook until the onion is softened, about 3–4 minutes.

Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juice), chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer.

Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to package directions, usually 4–6 minutes, until tender.

Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 1–2 minutes.

Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.

Notes

Make it spicy: Use hot Italian sausage and extra red pepper flakes.
Vegetarian option: Swap sausage with plant-based crumbles and use veggie broth.
Extra creamy: Stir in a spoonful of cream cheese or ricotta.
Prep tip: Assemble up to 24 hours ahead and bake when ready.
Freezer-friendly: Freeze before baking, tightly covered, for up to 2 months.
Reheating tip: Add a splash of broth or cream before reheating to keep it moist.
Add-ins: Try mushrooms, roasted peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.