Description
This Creamy Cajun Tortellini is a quick and flavorful pasta dish combining tender three-cheese tortellini with a savory blend of sautéed bell peppers, onions, garlic, and spicy andouille sausage. Finished with a rich, creamy sauce made from heavy cream, sour cream, and Parmesan cheese, this meal is perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner that comes together in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 20 ounces packaged three cheese tortellini
Sauce and Vegetables
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 2 green bell peppers, diced
- 1/2 medium yellow onion, diced
- 5 garlic cloves, minced
Meat and Seasoning
- 13 ounces andouille sausage, sliced
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
Cream and Cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Instructions
- Cook tortellini: Prepare the three cheese tortellini according to the package instructions, usually boiling them in salted water until they float to the surface and are tender, then drain and set aside.
- Sauté vegetables and sausage: While the tortellini cooks, melt the butter with olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced green bell peppers, yellow onion, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook them until just softened, about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Then add the sliced andouille sausage to the skillet to warm through and develop flavor.
- Make the creamy sauce: Turn the heat down to low. Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning over the sausage and vegetables, stirring to combine. Pour in the heavy cream and sour cream, mixing well until the sour cream is thoroughly incorporated into the sauce.
- Add cheese and toss pasta: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes creamy and smooth. Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy, spicy sauce. Heat through briefly, then remove from the heat and serve immediately.
Notes
- You can substitute the andouille sausage with Italian sausage or smoked sausage if desired.
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, though the sauce will be less rich.
- Add chopped fresh parsley or green onions on top for a fresh garnish.
- Adjust the Cajun seasoning to taste if you prefer more or less heat.
- This dish can be prepared ahead by cooking the tortellini and sausage mixture separately and combining just before serving.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American Cajun
