Baked Tortellini with Sausage

Ingredients

• Main Ingredients:

  • 1 tbsp avocado or olive oil
  • 1 lb ground Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
  • 2–3 carrots, chopped
  • 2–3 celery stalks, chopped
  • 1 yellow onion, minced
  • 3 large garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp fennel seeds, crushed
  • 1 jar (25 oz) tomato sauce or a can of San Marzano tomatoes
  • 10–15 oz refrigerated cheese tortellini
  • 1½–2 cups chicken broth
  • 2 cups baby spinach, torn

• Toppings:

  • ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan
  • Finely chopped parsley

• For Serving:

  • Garlic bread (optional)

Instructions

1. Brown the Sausage:

   • Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the oil and sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon.
   • Brown the sausage until it’s cooked through. Transfer to a bowl and drain off excess oil, leaving about 1 tbsp in the pan.

2. Sauté the Veggies:

   • In the same pan, add the carrots, celery, and onion. Cook until they start to soften and develop flavor, about 5 minutes.
   • Add the minced garlic and fennel seeds. Cook until fragrant.

3. Combine Ingredients:

   • Add the sausage back to the pan, then pour in the tomato sauce and 1 cup of chicken broth.
   • Stir in the tortellini. Let the mixture come to a simmer and cook for about 5 minutes, adding more broth if needed.

4. Finish with Spinach & Cheese:

   • Stir in the spinach until it wilts. Top with mozzarella cheese.
   • Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 8-10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

5. Serve:

   • Sprinkle with grated Parmesan and chopped parsley. Serve with garlic bread on the side.

Enjoy this comforting and delicious baked tortellini dish! It's perfect for a cozy family dinner.