Sausage and Kale Tortellini
Prep Time
5 minsCook Time
6-7 minsFree Time
to cook more kale and freeze it for later
Whip up a comforting meal on busy weeknights with our Sausage and Kale Tortellini. This recipe simplifies dinner, using easy-to-find fridge staples and pre-packaged fresh tortellini, so you can skip the chopping and prep work. Just combine everything in a microwave-safe dish and steam it all together in the microwave, eliminating the need for boiling or sautéing. With just one quick stir, you'll have this delicious meal ready in under 15 minutes.
All of Anyday’s recipes are tested (and retested!) in many different microwaves and home kitchens to make sure they work — and work well.
What You’ll Need
What You’ll Need
The Medium Deep Dish
The Medium Shallow Dish
The Anyhand Mitts
Ingredients
- 4oz (115g) bulk Italian sausage (hot or mild)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon chili flakes
- 1¼ cups (300ml) chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups (45g) chopped kale
- 4 oz (115g) fresh or frozen cheese tortellini
- ½ cup (42g) shredded mozzarella cheese
Preparation
- Add the sausage, garlic powder, chili flakes, black pepper, and stock to an Anyday dish, and mix until everything is well incorporated. Breaking up the sausage prior to cooking will help prevent big lumps from forming.
- Add the chopped kale and tortellini, tossing to combine, and cover with the lid (knob lifted).
- Cook in the microwave for 4-5 minutes. Toss everything together and continue cooking for 2-3 minutes or until the tortellini are cooked through. Taste and adjust seasonings.
- Top the tortellini with mozzarella cheese. Melt the cheese in the microwave for 30 seconds to a minute, or brown the cheese in a 500°F oven.
Serving suggestions & tips
- Try it with Alfredo sauce for a creamier dish.
- Try it with a side of fresh salad for an extra side of veggies.
- Use cheeses like pecorino, parmesan, asiago, or provolone for extra flavor.
Recipe notes
- Make sure to break the sausage into small bite-sized pieces before cooking.
- If you’re looking to melt the cheese in a hot oven, preheat the oven to 500* rather than using your broiler.
- You can make this recipe up to 3 days ahead.
- Microwave ovens vary, even with the same wattages. Adjust cooking times as needed.
All you need to know about making sausage and kale tortellini
Can I cook fresh pasta in the microwave?
Yes, you can cook fresh-filled pasta like cheese tortellini in the microwave! Toss it with cheese and butter or use this recipe to make a full meal.
Can I use both hot and mild Italian sausage in this recipe?
Yes, you can use either hot or mild Italian sausage based on your preference for spiciness. You can also use turkey or chicken sausages for leaner dishes or plant-based sausage alternatives if you prefer a vegetarian dish.
How do I prevent big lumps from forming when cooking the sausage?
Mixing the sausage with the stock and other ingredients before adding the kale and tortellini is crucial for preventing the sausage from forming large clumps. Breaking up the sausage before cooking ensures even distribution of flavor throughout the dish and it will also prevent it from resembling meatloaf.
How do I know when the tortellini are cooked through?
The tortellini will appear plump and tender when cut into. As the pasta cooks, it expands and should take on a lighter color than when it was uncooked.
Can I use frozen kale instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen kale instead of fresh. Just make sure to thaw it before adding it to the dish. If kale is not available or is not to your liking, you can use Swiss chard, spinach, or bok choy.
Can I use a different type of tortellini?
While fresh cheese tortellini is recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen tortellini if that's what you have available.
Can I add additional vegetables to this dish?
Feel free to incorporate extra vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms to tailor the dish to your preferences. If doubling the amount of veggies specified in the recipe, extend the cooking time by 1-2 minutes, and adjust as necessary.
Can I prepare this dish in advance and reheat it later?
Yes, you can prepare this dish in advance and reheat it later. After cooking, allow the dish to cool completely before storing it in an Anyday dish with the lid on in the refrigerator. When ready to eat, simply splash the surface with a bit of tap water, and reheat it in the microwave for 2-4 minutes, depending on serving size, until heated through.
How long will leftovers last in the refrigerator?
Leftovers can be stored in the Anyday dish with the lid on in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating leftovers, add a splash of broth or water to prevent the dish from drying out.
