This delightful one-pot meal brings together rich, comforting flavors that promise a cozy dining experience. With just 35 minutes of preparation, this skillet pasta dish combines the savory goodness of Italian-style chicken sausage with a tangy marinara sauce and creamy ricotta cheese. The tortellini are cooked directly in the sauce, allowing them to soak up all the delicious flavors while adding thickness to the dish. Fresh baby spinach adds a vibrant touch, complementing the sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy elements. This dish is easy to prepare using readily available ingredients from your local grocery store, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.

A Symphony of Savory Flavors

The key to this dish lies in its harmonious blend of flavors. By cooking the tortellini directly in the sauce, you achieve a perfectly balanced meal where each bite is bursting with flavor. The choice of refrigerated tortellini ensures they cook evenly and absorb the rich flavors of the sauce. Meanwhile, the high-quality marinara sauce and the juicy, slightly spicy chicken sausage provide depth and complexity. The result is a comforting dish that feels both indulgent and satisfying without being overly heavy.

To enhance the flavor profile, start by mixing fresh basil, grated garlic, salt, and pepper into a cup of whole milk ricotta. This mixture will be dolloped over the cooked ingredients later, adding an extra layer of creaminess. Begin by browning the sausage in olive oil until crispy, then add the marinara sauce and water to create a simmering base. Next, introduce the refrigerated tortellini, which will plump up as they cook in the flavorful liquid. Finally, wilt the baby spinach gradually, ensuring it becomes silky and integrates well with the other components.

Serving Suggestions and Tips for Success

Pair this hearty dish with a light salad or toasted garlic bread to complete the meal. The crispness of the salad contrasts beautifully with the richness of the pasta, while the garlic bread provides a perfect vehicle for sopping up every last drop of sauce. For optimal results, stick to refrigerated tortellini, as shelf-stable varieties won’t cook properly in this recipe. Choose a reliable brand like Galbani for the ricotta to ensure it remains thick and creamy, enhancing the overall texture of the dish.

When preparing the dish, preheat your oven to 400°F and use an oven-safe skillet. After combining all the ingredients, transfer the skillet to the oven and bake until the cheese melts and begins to brown. Allow it to cool slightly before serving, garnished with additional fresh basil leaves for a fresh finish. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, and you can even prepare the dish ahead of time, covering and refrigerating it until ready to bake. Experiment with different types of tortellini or sausages to customize the dish to your taste, ensuring endless variations on this comforting classic.