Prepare to elevate your weeknight dinner game with the delightful simplicity of the Sheet Pan Smoked Sausage Tortellini. This dish combines smoky and savory turkey sausage with rich cheese tortellini, all harmonized by the sweetness of roasted veggies. It’s a one-pan wonder that promises not just convenience but a burst of flavor in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-Pan Wonder: Everything comes together effortlessly on a single sheet pan for minimal cleanup.
- Flavor Explosion: The combo of smoked sausage and roasted vegetables creates a savory and delicious taste.
- Quick & Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights when you need a satisfying meal in under an hour.
- Family-Friendly: A dish that appeals to both adults and kids, making it a family favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The blend of simple, fresh ingredients makes all the difference in this Sheet Pan Smoked Sausage Tortellini. Each component contributes its own unique flair, from the cheesy richness of tortellini to the savory pop of smoked sausage. Let’s take a deeper dive into what you’ll need.
- Sweet Onion: Thinly sliced, it caramelizes during roasting, adding sweetness and depth.
- Mini Sweet Peppers: These bring vibrant color and a natural sweetness that balances the dish.
- Olive Oil: Key for roasting, it helps the ingredients cook evenly and adds a luscious finish.
- Kosher Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance every element of the dish.
- Garlic Powder: Adds an aromatic edge, infusing each bite with subtle garlic warmth.
- Smoked Turkey Sausage: Cut into rounds, it delivers the essential smoky flavor.
- Cheese Tortellini: The heart of the meal, providing a creamy, cheesy texture.
- Parmesan Cheese: For that savory, nutty finish that everyone loves.
- Fresh Chives: A sprinkle on top adds brightness and a pop of color.
Variations
This Sheet Pan Smoked Sausage Tortellini is a fabulous base for experimenting. Whether you need to adjust for dietary preferences or just love to get creative, there are plenty of ways to make it your own!
- Vegetarian Swap: Replace the smoked sausage with hearty mushrooms or a vegetarian sausage alternative for a meat-free version.
- Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free tortellini to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive guests.
How to Make Sheet Pan Smoked Sausage Tortellini
Step 1: Roast the Vegetables
Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F. On a large baking sheet, combine your sliced onions and sweet peppers. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and season generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Give everything a good toss to ensure even seasoning.
Step 2: Add the Sausage
Nestle the slices of smoked turkey sausage amongst the veggies on your sheet pan. This allows the sausage to soak up the flavors of the roasting onions and peppers. Roast this mix in your preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes.
Step 3: Cook the Tortellini
While your veggies and sausage are roasting, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the cheese tortellini according to package directions, aiming for perfect al dente with a minute shaved off the cook time. Drain and set aside.
Step 4: Combine and Bake
Remove the sheet pan from the oven and add the tortellini. Toss everything with the remaining olive oil and sprinkle the parmesan cheese over it. Return the pan to the oven for another 10 to 15 minutes, mixing occasionally for even cooking.
Pro Tips for Making Sheet Pan Smoked Sausage Tortellini
- Temperature Precision: Preheating the oven to precisely 425 degrees F ensures optimal roasting.
- Veggie Arrangement: Spread the veggies out in a single layer for even caramelization and roasting.
- Cheese Choice: Use freshly grated parmesan for a delightful melt and rich flavor.
- Staggered Cooking: Adding tortellini during the second half of roasting keeps it from drying out.
How to Serve Sheet Pan Smoked Sausage Tortellini
Garnishes
Top with extra parmesan cheese for a nutty, salty finish. A sprinkle of fresh chopped chives not only enhances the presentation but also adds a burst of fresh flavor, making each serving vibrant and appetizing.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or garlic bread. The fresh crunch of a salad complements the hearty flavors of the tortellini, while garlic bread adds a delightful, buttery accompaniment.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve in large, shallow bowls to showcase the vibrant colors of the peppers and onions. Consider adding a rustic edge by using wooden serving boards, which give a homely touch to your dining experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This ensures freshness while allowing the flavors to meld together, making for even more delicious reheats.
Freezing
The tortellini and sausage can be frozen for up to 2 months. Place in freezer-safe containers, ensuring all air is removed to prevent freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
For best results, reheat in a 350-degree F oven until warmed through. This helps revive the flavors without making the tortellini soggy. Alternatively, a quick zap in the microwave works for those short on time.
FAQs
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Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap turkey sausage for pork, chicken, or a plant-based alternative. Adjust cooking times as needed, especially if using uncooked sausage types.
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Is there a way to make this dish dairy-free?
Indeed, you can use dairy-free cheese tortellini and substitute nutritional yeast for the parmesan to keep that savory kick without dairy.
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How can I add more vegetables?
Consider adding zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or broccoli florets. These vegetables roast well and introduce new flavors and textures to the dish.
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What if I don’t have fresh chives?
You can substitute with thinly sliced green onions or a small sprinkle of dried chives for a similar finish.
Final Thoughts
I can’t wait for you to try this Sheet Pan Smoked Sausage Tortellini—it’s a true game-changer for busy nights. It’s quick, flavorful, and so satisfyingly easy to make. Bring some excitement and a touch of gourmet to your dinner table tonight. Happy cooking!
PrintSheet Pan Smoked Sausage Tortellini Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Description
This hearty and flavorful sheet pan smoked sausage tortellini combines savory smoked turkey sausage with tender cheese tortellini, sweet peppers, and onions, all roasted in a single pan for easy cleanup and maximum flavor. Topped with fresh chives and Parmesan, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting weekend meal.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 sweet onion, thinly sliced
- 1 pound mini sweet peppers, thinly sliced
Oil and Seasonings
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- Kosher salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Meat
- 1 pound smoked turkey sausage, cut into rounds
Pasta
- 20 ounces cheese tortellini
Cheese and Herbs
- 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for topping
- 3 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Set your oven to the specified temperature to ensure an even roast.
- Prep the vegetables. Place the sliced onions and mini sweet peppers on a baking sheet. Toss them with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, a big pinch of salt and pepper, and the garlic powder until evenly coated.
- Add the sausage. Arrange the smoked turkey sausage rounds on top of the vegetables, nestling them into the pan for even roasting.
- Roast. Roast everything in the oven for 15 to 20 minutes, until the vegetables are tender and sausage is slightly browned.
- Cook the tortellini. While the sausage and vegetables roast, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the cheese tortellini according to package instructions, reducing the cooking time by 1 minute to keep them al dente. Drain well.
- Combine and bake again. Remove the sheet pan from the oven. Add the cooked tortellini to the pan and toss with the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
- Finish roasting. Return the sheet pan to the oven for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, tossing once or twice during this period to evenly distribute flavors and avoid sticking.
- Serve. Remove from the oven. Sprinkle freshly chopped chives and additional Parmesan cheese over the top. Serve immediately for best flavor.
Notes
- Ensure the tortellini is cooked to al dente for the best texture.
- You can substitute spicy sausage for a spicy kick, if desired.
- For added freshness, serve with a squeeze of lemon or a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
- This dish can be assembled and baked in advance, then finished in the oven for convenience.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 900 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 50 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
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