Hey y'all! If you're looking for an easy weeknight dinner that's both hearty and packed with flavor, this Kielbasa and Tortellini Skillet Meal is about to become your new favorite. Smoky kielbasa mingled with cheesy tortellini, tender veggies, and a creamy sauce—it's comfort food at its best! Whether you're feeding a hungry family or meal-prepping for the week, this one-pan wonder is sure to please. Let's get cooking!
Why You'll Love This Kielbasa and Tortellini Skillet Meal
- One-pan meal = easy cleanup and less mess.
- Perfect blend of smoky, cheesy, and savory flavors.
- Quick to prepare—on your table in just 30 minutes.
- Customizable with your favorite veggies or tortellini flavors.
- Great for leftovers and meal prep for busy weeks.
Ingredients for Kielbasa and Tortellini Skillet Meal
- 1 (12-ounce) package kielbasa, sliced into ¼-inch rounds
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 zucchini, sliced into half-moons
- 1 (20-ounce) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, drained
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How to Make Kielbasa and Tortellini Skillet Meal
Step 1: Sauté the Kielbasa and Veggies
Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced kielbasa and cook for 3-4 minutes until browned. Add diced onion, bell pepper, and zucchini, cooking for another 4-5 minutes until vegetables are softened. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Add Tortellini and Sauce
Add the cheese tortellini to the skillet along with drained diced tomatoes, heavy cream, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
Step 3: Simmer and Finish
Reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tortellini is tender and heated through. Stir in mozzarella cheese until melted and creamy. Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes for the Perfect Kielbasa and Tortellini Skillet Meal
- Use pre-cooked kielbasa for convenience—here's a guide on cooking kielbasa if you need it.
- If your skillet gets too dry, add a splash of chicken broth to keep things saucy.
- For extra flavor, swap heavy cream with half-and-half or add a dash of red pepper flakes.
Variations on Kielbasa and Tortellini Skillet Meal
- Spicy Kick: Use spicy kielbasa or add sliced jalapeños for heat.
- Veggie-Forward: Substitute spinach or mushrooms for bell pepper and zucchini.
- Lightened Up: Use turkey kielbasa and low-fat cream for a lighter meal.
Required Equipment
- Large, deep nonstick skillet with lid
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Cutting board and sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
Kielbasa and Tortellini Skillet Meal Storage Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce if needed. Not recommended for freezing, as the tortellini texture may change.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
- Serve with a crisp green salad and crusty garlic bread.
- Pair with a light Italian white wine or sparkling water with lemon.
- Try roasted vegetables or steamed broccoli for extra nutrients.
Pro Tips for the Best Kielbasa and Tortellini Skillet Meal
- Brown the kielbasa well to develop a deep, smoky flavor—check out these browning tips.
- Buy fresh, refrigerated tortellini for the softest, cheesiest results.
- Drain tomatoes thoroughly to prevent a watery sauce—learn more about canned tomatoes here.
Kielbasa and Tortellini Skillet Meal FAQ
- Can I use frozen tortellini?
- Absolutely! Just add a few extra minutes to the simmering time and ensure it's heated through.
- Can I make this meal ahead of time?
- Yes, prep the dish as directed and store in the fridge; reheat before serving for best flavor and texture.
- Is this recipe gluten-free?
- No, but you can substitute with gluten-free tortellini if needed.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
- 12 oz smoked kielbasa sausage, sliced
- 10 oz refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 small yellow onion, chopped
- 2 cups baby spinach
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
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1Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced kielbasa and cook for 3-4 minutes until browned.
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2Add diced red bell pepper and chopped onion to the skillet. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until vegetables are softened.
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3Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
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4Add cheese tortellini and marinara sauce to the skillet. Stir to combine, cover, and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tortellini is heated through.
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5Add baby spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
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6Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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