Creamy Stick Butter Tortellini

One Pot Stick of Butter Tortellini is a creamy, buttery pasta dish that comes together quickly and satisfies the whole family. This recipe shines for weeknight dinners or any time you want a comforting meal without fuss. The rich sauce coats tender cheese tortellini perfectly, promising a balance of indulgence and ease in every bite.

I first made this dish after a long day when I needed comfort food fast, and it instantly became a repeat request from my family.

Ingredients

• Chicken Italian sausage: One lb chicken Italian sausage offers savory protein and a flavorful base
• Cheese tortellini: Twenty four ounces cheese tortellini bring cheesy pockets that soak up the luxurious sauce
• Butter with garlic and herb: One stick butter with garlic and herb adds richness and depth choose good quality butter for the best flavor
• Minced garlic: Minced garlic infuses the sauce with irresistible aroma and punch
• Heavy cream: One cup heavy cream creates a smooth, velvety texture
• Cream cheese: Four ounces cream cheese with garlic and herb whipped style adds body and enhances creaminess
• Parmesan: One cup grated parmesan contributes a sharp, nutty finish freshly grated parmesan makes a noticeable difference
• Black pepper: One and a half teaspoons seasons with mild heat and earthiness
• Onion powder: One and a half teaspoons gives subtle sweetness and complexity
• Italian seasoning: Two teaspoons brings a balanced herb blend that brightens the dish
• Red pepper flakes optional: One teaspoon add a touch of heat adjust to taste
• Beef broth: One and a half cups beef broth form the liquid base adding savory depth
• Fresh basil: Fresh basil for aromatic freshness and a pop of green that livens the plate
• Selection notes: When selecting sausage look for varieties with natural casings and high meat content for best texture For tortellini fresh or frozen cheese tortellini works well but avoid pre cooked or dry to ensure perfect cooking

Instructions

Cook the Sausage:

Heat a large pot over mediumhigh and cut up the chicken Italian sausage Add it to the pot and cook thoroughly until browned and cooked through Once done remove the sausage and set aside Cooking the meat first ensures it is properly sealed and flavor is locked in

Prepare the Sauce:

Turn the heat down to lowmedium Allow the pot to cool for about a minute before adding the stick of butter and minced garlic Gently cook for about one minute or until fragrant but not browned This process builds a fragrant buttery base that carries the sauce

Combine Ingredients:

Sprinkle in the black pepper onion powder Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes if using Pour in the beef broth followed by the heavy cream stirring everything well together This combination creates the creamy flavorful liquid that will cook the tortellini

Cook the Tortellini:

Add the cheese tortellini to the pot then stir in the whipped cream cheese Cover with a lid and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer Cook for approximately ten minutes or until the tortellini are plump and tender Covering the pot traps steam which cooks the pasta evenly and infuses it with flavor

Finish Up:

Take off the lid and stir in the grated parmesan and fresh basil Return the cooked sausage to the pot and mix thoroughly until the meat is fully coated in sauce This final step brings all the components together for a harmonious and creamy dish ready to serve

My favorite ingredient is the garlic and herb cream cheese which adds complexity beyond plain cream cheese I remember serving this for a casual dinner with friends and everyone was surprised how simple it was but tasted so indulgent The fresh basil at the end really makes the dish come alive with brightness.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days Make sure the dish is cooled completely before sealing to preserve freshness If freezing use a freezer safe container and freeze for up to two months Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap chicken sausage with turkey sausage or remove meat for a vegetarian version using sautéed mushrooms Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth to keep it lighter Lower fat cream or half and half can be used but the sauce may be less rich

Serving Suggestions

Pair this tortellini with a mixed greens salad dressed lightly with balsamic vinaigrette for balance Garlic bread or roasted vegetables such as zucchini and bell peppers add color and complement the creamy sauce A simple Caesar salad works well for an Italian themed meal

This One Pot Stick of Butter Tortellini is comfort food that comes together fast. Finish with fresh basil and freshly grated parmesan before serving for the best results.

Common Recipe Questions

→ What ingredients flavor the sauce?

Garlic herb butter, heavy cream, cream cheese, parmesan, and Italian seasonings create the rich, creamy sauce.

→ How long does cooking take?

About 30 minutes from start to finish, making it suitable for quick, satisfying meals.

→ Can additional ingredients be added?

Yes, vegetables like spinach or bell peppers and proteins like grilled chicken can be added for variety.

→ What tools are essential for preparation?

A large pot, wooden spoon or spatula, measuring cups and spoons, knife, and cutting board are recommended.

→ How to reheat leftovers?

Reheat in oven, microwave, or stovetop skillet, adding broth or cream if needed to maintain creaminess.