One Pot Stick Butter Tortellini

One Pot Stick of Butter Tortellini is a creamy, buttery pasta dish that comes together quickly and easily. It blends tender cheese tortellini with savory chicken sausage in a rich sauce made from a whole stick of garlic and herb butter, cream, and parmesan. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a comforting meal without a lot of fuss, this recipe delivers on flavor and minimal cleanup.

I remember the first time I made this during a hectic weeknight, it became an instant hit with my kids who now often ask for it. The rich buttery sauce combined with the soft tortellini is absolutely comforting and satisfying.

Ingredients

• Chicken Italian sausage: One pound for bold flavor and protein choose quality sausage without fillers for best taste
• Cheese tortellini: Twentyfour ounces fresh or frozen works but fresh tortellini gives the best texture
• Garlic and herb butter: One stick which creates the rich base and depth
• Minced garlic: For aromatic punch fresh is best but jarred works in a pinch
• Heavy cream: One cup adds indulgent creaminess
• Garlic and herb whipped cream cheese: Four ounces adds silkiness and tang
• Grated parmesan cheese: One cup to deepen the sauce and add saltiness
• Black pepper: One and a half teaspoons for balanced heat
• Onion powder: One and a half teaspoons for subtle sweetness
• Italian seasoning: Two teaspoons for herb layers
• Red pepper flakes: One teaspoon optional for a touch of heat depending on preference
• Beef broth: One and a half cups to create the sauce liquid and add savory notes
• Fresh basil: To finish with brightness choose vibrant leaves without blemishes

Instructions

Sear the Sausage:

Cut the chicken Italian sausage into bite sized pieces. Heat a large pot over medium high and cook the sausage pieces until browned on all sides and through. Remove from the pot and set aside to avoid overcooking.

Create the Butter Garlic Base:

Turn the heat to medium low and let the pot cool slightly for about one minute. Add the whole stick of garlic and herb butter along with the minced garlic. Stir continuously and cook for around one minute until the garlic is fragrant but not browned to release the flavors and prevent bitterness.

Add Seasonings and Liquids:

Sprinkle in the black pepper, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and if you want a little kick the red pepper flakes. Pour in the beef broth followed by the heavy cream. Stir well to combine all elements into a flavorful liquid base.

Cook the Tortellini:

Add the cheese tortellini directly into the pot. Dollop in the whipped cream cheese and gently fold it into the sauce. Cover with a lid and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook for about ten minutes until the tortellini is plump and tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Finish with Cheese, Basil, and Sausage:

Remove the lid and stir in the grated parmesan cheese along with freshly chopped basil leaves. Return the cooked sausage to the pot and combine everything until evenly coated in the creamy sauce. Serve warm and enjoy the rich flavors.

The fresh basil really transforms this dish from good to great with its bright, herbaceous punch. I have special memories of making this for family when everyone needed a good pick me up after a busy day. The buttery warmth instantly feels like a hug at the dinner table.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in airtight containers once completely cooled. Keep in the refrigerator for up to three days. Before reheating add a splash of broth or cream to restore the sauce's creaminess if it thickens too much. This meal also freezes wonderfully place portions in freezer safe containers or bags and freeze for up to two months. Label your containers so you do not lose track.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you want a lighter version swap heavy cream for half and half or whole milk but expect a less rich sauce. Substitute chicken sausage with turkey sausage or even vegetarian sausage alternatives to suit dietary preferences. Fresh tortellini can be replaced with frozen or dried but adjust cooking time accordingly. Parmesan can be swapped with pecorino romano for a sharper finish.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with fresh, crisp salads such as mixed greens dressed lightly with balsamic or a classic Caesar salad for extra texture. Offer crusty garlic bread for soaking up sauce or steamed broccoli to add some vibrant color and crunch. For protein variation, grilled chicken strips or shrimp skewers work well. Garnish with plenty of fresh basil or extra parmesan shavings for that finishing touch.

Enjoy this rich, comforting one pot tortellini with a sprinkle of basil and extra parmesan. It is perfect for weeknights and makes great leftovers.

Common Recipe Questions

→ What ingredients are key for this dish?

The main ingredients include cheese tortellini, Italian sausage, butter, garlic, heavy cream, cream cheese, Parmesan, and fresh basil.

→ How long does it take to cook?

Preparation and cooking take approximately 30 minutes, making it suitable for quick dinners.

→ Can this dish be customized with other ingredients?

Yes, adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers and swapping proteins such as turkey or shrimp works well.

→ What are some tips for perfecting the sauce?

Simmer the cream and broth gently to thicken the sauce, and add fresh basil at the end for bright flavor.

→ How should leftovers be stored and reheated?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in a microwave with a splash of broth.