Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli | Really Easy Dinner, Dinner Ideas Healthy Dairy Free
It was one of those midweek nights when the fridge was running low, and all I had were a few lingering ingredients half a bag of frozen tortellini, some pre-cooked sausage, and a lonely crown of broccoli. With two hungry kids asking what was for dinner and zero desire to make a grocery run, I got creative. Garlic. Parmesan. A quick skillet toss. That was the beginning of this garlic parmesan tortellini with sausage and broccoli dish. Now, it’s one of our most-loved easy Tuesday dinner ideas.
This meal has become my go-to for light family meals that taste like comfort food but still feel fresh. It’s perfect for dinners for three people, quick enough for pasta meals for two, and hearty enough to qualify as a really easy dinner that still feels satisfying.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Parmesan Tortellini Recipe
This garlic parmesan tortellini with sausage and broccoli hits all the marks it’s fast, it’s flavorful, and it sneaks in some greens. If you’re on the hunt for healthy dinner for 3 or dinner ideas easy healthy dairy free, this one checks the boxes with a creamy garlic sauce that doesn’t rely on heavy cream.
It’s also one of the best tortellini with meatballs alternatives same comfort, more veggie power. And trust me, broccoli supper ideas don’t usually get this much applause.
Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook the tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add sliced sausage and cook until lightly browned.
- Add broccoli florets and a splash of water. Cover and steam for 3–4 minutes.
- Remove lid, stir in minced garlic, and cook for 1 more minute.
- Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet and toss everything together.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan, black pepper, and salt. Add red pepper flakes or lemon zest if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 10 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2–3 pre-cooked sausages, sliced (chicken or turkey work great)
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Salt to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes, lemon zest
This recipe lands on the table in under 30 minutes, making it one of my favorite dinner ideas for three people or light family meals.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli
- Cook the tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- While tortellini cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add sliced sausage and cook until lightly browned.
- Add broccoli florets and a splash of water. Cover the skillet for 3–4 minutes to steam the broccoli.
- Remove lid, stir in garlic, and cook for another minute.
- Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet. Toss everything together.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan, black pepper, and salt. Add optional red pepper flakes or lemon zest for a little zip.
Dinner’s done! One pan. One incredible flavor combo. No stress.
Why This is One of the Best Dinner Ideas Easy Healthy Dairy Free
If you’re cutting back on dairy or just looking for lighter options, this garlic parmesan tortellini is a win. Use dairy-free cheese and sausage, and boom you’ve got dinner ideas easy healthy dairy free that still bring serious flavor.
Plus, it’s an ideal option for healthy dinner for 3 without compromising on taste. This pasta meals for two recipe also doubles easily for leftovers or next-day lunch.
Meal Prep and Variations
This tortellini dish is meal-prep-friendly and super flexible. Some ways to switch it up:
- Swap broccoli for spinach, peas, or zucchini
- Use Italian sausage for a spicier version
- Add a splash of broth or reserved pasta water for a saucier finish
- Try different tortellini fillings like spinach ricotta
These swaps keep the meal fresh while sticking with easy Tuesday dinner ideas that don’t complicate your day.
Serving Suggestions
Looking to round it out? Serve this garlic parmesan tortellini with:
- Garlic bread or a simple side salad
- A crisp white wine if it’s a grown-up dinner
- Grated lemon zest and herbs for a bright touch
It’s the kind of broccoli supper idea that turns into a dinner everyone asks for again and again.
Leftovers and Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to loosen things up. Avoid microwaving for too long to keep the tortellini texture perfect.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes! Frozen tortellini works perfectly just cook it according to package instructions before tossing it into the skillet.
What kind of sausage works best?
Chicken or turkey sausage keeps things light, but Italian sausage adds a nice kick if you want more flavor.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Absolutely. Just swap the Parmesan for a dairy-free alternative, and make sure your sausage is also dairy-free.
How can I make this vegetarian?
Skip the sausage and add extra veggies like mushrooms or zucchini. You can also use plant-based sausage for a protein boost.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, this dish reheats well. Just store it in an airtight container and reheat gently with a splash of water or broth.
Final Thoughts: Quick, Flavorful, and Family-Approved
Garlic parmesan tortellini with sausage and broccoli is one of those really easy dinner recipes that you’ll find yourself making on repeat. From dinner ideas healthy dairy free to broccoli supper ideas with actual flavor, it delivers big. So next time you’re staring into the fridge with zero plan, remember this little gem of a recipe it just might save your night.
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