One Pot “Stick of Butter” Tortellini

One Pot Stick of Butter Tortellini is a delightful dish that will quickly become a family favorite. This creamy, buttery pasta is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, ready in just under 30 minutes. With its rich flavors and simple preparation, it’s a standout meal that everyone will enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This one-pot meal comes together in no time, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• Creamy Deliciousness: The combination of butter and cream creates a rich sauce that coats the tortellini beautifully.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy flavor and tender pasta.
• Minimal Cleanup: Cooking everything in one pot means less time scrubbing dishes afterward.
• Versatile Dish: Customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins for added nutrition.

Tools and Preparation

Before you get cooking, gather your essential kitchen tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Why These Tools Matter

• Large pot: A spacious pot is crucial for cooking everything evenly without overcrowding.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: These tools are gentle on cookware surfaces and help in mixing without scratching.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensuring accurate measurements leads to consistent results each time you make this dish.

Ingredients

To create this delicious One Pot Stick of Butter Tortellini, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Protein

• 1 lb chicken Chicken Chicken Italian sausage

Pasta

• 24 oz cheese tortellini

Sauces & Dairy

• 1 stick butter (garlic and herb)
• minced garlic
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 4 oz cream cheese (garlic and herb whipped)
• 1 cup grated parmesan

Seasonings

• 1.5 tsp black pepper
• 1.5 tsp onion powder
• 2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Broth & Herbs

• 1.5 cups beef broth
• fresh basil

How to Make One Pot Stick of Butter Tortellini

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

1. Cut up the chicken Chicken Chicken Italian sausage.
2. Cook it on medium-high heat in a large pot until fully cooked through.
3. Once done, set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

1. Lower the heat to low-medium and let the pot cool for a minute.
2. Add the stick of butter along with the minced garlic.
3. Cook for about one minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

1. Add all seasonings: black pepper, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and optional red pepper flakes.
2. Pour in the beef broth and then add the heavy cream. Stir well.

Step 4: Cook the Tortellini

1. Add the cheese tortellini and then stir in the whipped cream cheese.
2. Cover with a lid, bring to a simmer, and cook for about 10 minutes until tortellini is plump.

Step 5: Finish Up

1. Stir in the grated parmesan cheese and fresh basil.
2. Finally, add back in the cooked sausage, stirring until well coated in sauce.

Enjoy your creamy One Pot Stick of Butter Tortellini!

How to Serve One Pot Stick of Butter Tortellini

This creamy and buttery tortellini dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner. Here are some delightful ways to serve it for maximum enjoyment.

Pair with Fresh Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad: A simple salad with arugula, spinach, and cherry tomatoes drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with parmesan cheese, croutons, and Caesar dressing for a classic taste.

Add Extra Protein

• Grilled Chicken Strips: Tender grilled chicken strips can complement the dish and add more protein.
• Shrimp Skewers: Quick-cooked shrimp skewers can enhance the meal’s flavors while keeping it light.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Basil: Sprinkle freshly chopped basil over the dish for an aromatic lift.
• Parmesan Shavings: Add extra shavings of parmesan cheese for a touch of richness.

How to Perfect One Pot Stick of Butter Tortellini

Getting this dish just right can take your meal from good to great. Here are some tips to help you achieve perfection.

• Bold Flavor Boost: Consider adding sautéed onions or bell peppers along with the garlic for an extra layer of flavor.
• Creamy Consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer a bit longer before adding the tortellini.
• Spice Level Control: Adjust the red pepper flakes according to your heat preference; omit them for a milder dish.
• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh herbs instead of dried ones whenever possible for a brighter taste.
• Serve Immediately: For the best experience, serve the tortellini right after cooking while it’s still warm and creamy.

Best Side Dishes for One Pot Stick of Butter Tortellini

Complementing your tortellini with delicious side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some tasty options:

1. Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and a nutritious crunch to your plate.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini and bell peppers provide a hearty contrast.
4. Caprese Skewers: Mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes, and basil drizzled with olive oil create a fresh bite.
5. Italian Antipasto Platter: An assortment of olives, cheeses, and cured meats pairs beautifully with pasta.
6. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob brings sweetness that balances the savory tortellini.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making One Pot Stick of Butter Tortellini, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes to keep in mind:

• Bold Ingredient Measurement: Using incorrect ingredient measurements can ruin the dish. Always measure your items precisely for the best flavor and texture.
• Bold Cooking Temperature: Cooking on too high of heat can lead to burnt garlic and uneven cooking. Always start at medium-high heat and adjust as needed.
• Bold Skipping the Simmer: Not allowing the tortellini to properly simmer can result in undercooked pasta. Make sure to cover the pot and let it simmer for the recommended time.
• Bold Overcrowding the Pan: Adding too many ingredients at once can cause uneven cooking. Cook proteins separately before adding them back into the dish.
• Bold Neglecting Fresh Herbs: Forgetting to add fresh basil or using dried herbs instead can lessen the dish’s freshness. Always top with fresh herbs right before serving for enhanced flavor.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Allow it to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing One Pot Stick of Butter Tortellini

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating One Pot Stick of Butter Tortellini

• Bold Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Bold Microwave: Transfer portions to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until hot.
• Bold Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over low-medium heat, adding a splash of beef broth or cream if needed to prevent sticking. Stir occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is One Pot Stick of Butter Tortellini?

One Pot Stick of Butter Tortellini is a creamy pasta dish that combines tortellini with chicken sausage and a buttery sauce, all cooked in one pot for easy cleanup.

How long does it take to make One Pot Stick of Butter Tortellini?

This recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for a quick weeknight meal.

Can I customize One Pot Stick of Butter Tortellini?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers or substitute different proteins like turkey or lamb according to your taste preferences.

Is One Pot Stick of Butter Tortellini healthy?

While it’s indulgent due to butter and cream, you can make healthier choices by using lower-fat cream or incorporating more veggies for added nutrition.

Conclusion

One Pot Stick of Butter Tortellini is an incredibly delicious and versatile recipe that promises ease and satisfaction for any family dinner. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s sure to become a favorite at your table. Don’t hesitate to customize this dish with your choice of proteins or vegetables!