If you’re craving a hearty meal that’s quick to whip up and packed with flavor, our Blackstone Sausage Tortellini recipe is just what you need. This dish combines savory sausage with tender cheese-filled tortellini, creating a perfect balance of rich and comforting tastes. Cooking it on a Blackstone griddle adds a unique smoky char that elevates every bite.
We love how versatile this recipe is—whether you’re feeding a family or looking for an impressive weeknight dinner, it comes together fast without sacrificing flavor. Plus, it’s a great way to bring restaurant-quality vibes right to your own kitchen. Let’s dive into this easy-to-make dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation.
Ingredients
To create our flavorful Blackstone Sausage Tortellini, we carefully select ingredients that complement each other perfectly. Below, you’ll find all the components needed to achieve that signature rich and savory taste enhanced by the Blackstone griddle’s smoky char.
Sausage Ingredients
For the savory foundation of our dish, we’ll use high-quality sausage with a balance of seasoning and texture:
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy depending on preference), casing removed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for cooking the sausage evenly
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder to enhance the meaty flavor
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
Tortellini Ingredients
The star of our recipe is the tender, cheese-filled tortellini which pairs beautifully with the sausage:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cheese tortellini | 1 package (about 9 oz) | Fresh or refrigerated works best |
| Water | As needed | For boiling tortellini |
| Salt | 1 tablespoon | To season boiling water |
Additional Ingredients and Seasonings
To bring everything together with bold layers of flavor and balance, these additional ingredients are essential:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese for melty, gooey texture
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese for sharp, nutty notes
- 2 tablespoons butter to finish with richness
- 2 cloves garlic, minced for an aromatic punch
- ½ cup chopped fresh basil or parsley to brighten and garnish
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
These ingredients help us create a dish that’s smoky, cheesy, and packed with savory goodness—an irresistible combination cooked right on our Blackstone griddle.
Equipment Needed
To prepare the Blackstone Sausage Tortellini recipe perfectly, having the right equipment on hand is essential. Each tool helps us achieve the ideal texture, flavor, and presentation while making the cooking process efficient and enjoyable. Here’s a detailed list of the equipment we’ll use:
- Blackstone Griddle
We rely on our Blackstone griddle to deliver that signature smoky char and even heat distribution. This outdoor cooking surface offers enough space to cook sausage and tortellini simultaneously.
- Large Mixing Bowl
A bowl for combining ingredients and tossing cooked tortellini with sausage, butter, and cheese.
- Spatula or Griddle Scraper
To flip and stir sausage and tortellini on the griddle without breaking the pasta.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Accurate measurement tools ensure we add precise amounts of olive oil, herbs, garlic powder, and cheeses for balanced flavor.
- Colander or Strainer
For draining the tortellini pasta after boiling or direct rinse if using refrigerated tortellini.
- Chef’s Knife
For cutting sausage links if needed and mincing fresh garlic.
- Cutting Board
A stable surface for slicing and prepping ingredients.
| Equipment | Purpose | Why It’s Important |
|---|---|---|
| Blackstone Griddle | Cooking sausage & tortellini | Provides even heat and smoky flavor |
| Large Mixing Bowl | Mixing ingredients and tossing | Allows even coating of flavors |
| Spatula/Griddle Scraper | Stirring and flipping on griddle | Prevents breaking tortellini |
| Measuring Cups/Spoons | Accurate ingredient measurement | Ensures consistent taste |
| Colander/Strainer | Draining pasta | Prevents sogginess |
| Chef’s Knife | Cutting sausage & mincing garlic | Precision prep |
| Cutting Board | Ingredient preparation surface | Keeps workspace organized |
Having all these tools ready before starting simplifies the cooking process and helps us focus on bringing out the best in the Blackstone Sausage Tortellini. Using the Blackstone griddle is a game changer for this dish, giving it that distinctive, rustic flavor we want every time.
Prep Work
Before we start cooking on the Blackstone griddle, getting our ingredients prepped properly ensures a smooth and successful recipe execution. Let’s break down each component for our Blackstone Sausage Tortellini.
Preparing the Sausage
- Begin by removing the casing from the Italian sausage links if necessary.
- Using a sharp chef’s knife, lightly score the sausage to facilitate even cooking.
- Break the sausage meat into small, uniform pieces to ensure it cooks thoroughly and crisply on the griddle.
- Set aside in a bowl, ready to be crumbled and cooked.
Tip: Using sweet or hot Italian sausage will impact the flavor profile. Choose based on your desired spice level.
Preparing the Tortellini
- Select either fresh or refrigerated cheese tortellini—both will melt beautifully with our sausage.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the tortellini until al dente, usually around 2 to 3 minutes for fresh or per package instructions for refrigerated.
- Immediately drain the tortellini using a colander and drizzle lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Transfer to a large mixing bowl, ready for combining with the sausage and other ingredients.
| Tortellini Type | Cooking Time | Texture Goal |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh Cheese | 2–3 minutes | Al dente, tender |
| Refrigerated Cheese | According to package | Firm yet tender |
Chopping and Measuring Additional Ingredients
- Finely mince garlic cloves to unleash their full aroma on the griddle.
- Grate Parmesan cheese and shred mozzarella; measure out 1/2 cup of each for optimal melt and flavor balance.
- Measure exact quantities of butter (2 tablespoons) and olive oil (1 tablespoon) to achieve rich but not greasy texture.
- If using, crush red pepper flakes (a pinch for mild or 1/4 teaspoon for heat).
- Chop fresh herbs like parsley or basil for garnish to add vibrant color and a fresh herbal punch at the end.
| Ingredient | Prep Method | Measurement |
|---|---|---|
| Garlic | Minced | 2 cloves |
| Parmesan Cheese | Grated | 1/2 cup |
| Mozzarella | Shredded | 1/2 cup |
| Butter | Measured | 2 tablespoons |
| Olive Oil | Measured | 1 tablespoon |
| Red Pepper Flakes | Crushed (optional) | Pinch to 1/4 tsp |
| Fresh Herbs | Chopped | 2 tablespoons |
Proper Prep Work boosts flavor and streamlines cooking on our Blackstone griddle, setting us up perfectly for the next steps.
Cooking Instructions
Follow these precise steps to achieve perfectly cooked Blackstone Sausage Tortellini, ensuring balanced flavors and a mouthwatering finish every time.
Cooking the Sausage
- Preheat the Blackstone griddle to medium-high heat (around 375°F).
- Add 1 tablespoon olive oil to the griddle and spread evenly.
- Place the prepared Italian sausage pieces onto the griddle.
- Cook the sausage, stirring and breaking it apart with a spatula, for 6-8 minutes until browned and fully cooked through.
- Sprinkle 1 teaspoon garlic powder and optional ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes over the sausage while cooking to enhance flavor.
- Remove the cooked sausage from the griddle and set aside on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess fat.
Cooking the Tortellini
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil off the griddle.
- Add 12 ounces of cheese tortellini and cook until al dente, usually 3-4 minutes (or according to package instructions).
- Drain the tortellini using a colander, then toss immediately with 1 tablespoon olive oil to prevent sticking.
Combining Sausage and Tortellini
- Return the Blackstone griddle to medium heat (around 350°F) and add 2 tablespoons butter.
- Once the butter melts and starts to bubble, add minced garlic (2 cloves), cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the cooked sausage and tortellini to the griddle. Gently toss and stir using a spatula to mix everything evenly.
- Sprinkle 1 cup shredded mozzarella and ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese over the mixture.
- Continue cooking and stirring gently for 3-4 minutes until the cheese melts into a gooey, golden blanket.
- Finish by garnishing with chopped fresh herbs such as basil or parsley for a burst of freshness.
| Step | Ingredient(s) | Cooking Time | Temperature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sausage browning | Italian sausage, olive oil, garlic powder, red pepper flakes | 6-8 minutes | 375°F (medium-high) |
| Tortellini boiling | Cheese tortellini | 3-4 minutes | Boiling water |
| Combining and melting | Butter, minced garlic, cooked sausage, tortellini, cheeses | 3-4 minutes | 350°F (medium) |
Step-by-Step Directions
Follow these precise steps to master the Blackstone Sausage Tortellini recipe with a perfect balance of smoky, savory, and cheesy flavors.
Heating the Blackstone Grill or Griddle
- Preheat the Blackstone griddle to medium-high heat, around 375°F to 400°F.
- Allow the surface to reach even heat for 5-7 minutes.
- This temperature ensures a perfect sear on the sausage and tortellini while delivering that signature smoky char.
Cooking Sausage on the Blackstone
- Remove casing from the Italian sausage, score and break it into small pieces.
- Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the preheated griddle to prevent sticking.
- Spread sausage evenly on the surface.
- Cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even browning.
- Sprinkle 1 teaspoon garlic powder and optional ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes for flavor enhancement.
- Cook until sausage is browned and fully cooked through, with no pink remaining.
| Ingredient | Measurement | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Italian sausage | 1 lb | Protein base |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp | Prevent sticking |
| Garlic powder | 1 tsp | Flavor enhancer |
| Crushed red pepper flakes | ½ tsp (optional) | Adds heat |
Adding and Cooking Tortellini on the Blackstone
- Boil fresh or refrigerated cheese tortellini in salted water until al dente (approximately 3-4 minutes).
- Drain tortellini thoroughly using a colander.
- Toss tortellini with 1 tablespoon olive oil immediately after draining to prevent sticking.
- Add tortellini to the griddle with the cooked sausage.
- Spread evenly and cook for 2-3 minutes, flipping gently to warm all sides.
- This brief sear on the griddle develops a light char and enhances the tortellini’s flavor.
Mixing and Finishing the Dish
- Add 2 tablespoons butter and 2 cloves minced garlic directly to the griddle.
- Toss the sausage and tortellini mixture continuously to distribute garlic aroma and melt butter evenly.
- Sprinkle ½ cup shredded mozzarella and ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Stir gently until cheeses melt into a gooey, creamy coating—about 2-3 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh chopped herbs such as parsley or basil for a fresh burst.
- Serve immediately while hot and enjoy the rich, smoky, cheesy perfection of our Blackstone Sausage Tortellini.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate our Blackstone Sausage Tortellini experience, we recommend pairing this rich and smoky dish with complementary sides and garnishes that balance its bold flavors and creamy textures. Here are some tried-and-true serving suggestions that enhance every bite:
1. Fresh Side Salads
A crisp salad provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty tortellini. Try a mixed greens salad with tangy vinaigrette or a Caesar salad for a classic pairing. The acidity cuts through the richness, creating a well-rounded meal.
2. Garlic Bread or Ciabatta
Serve warm garlic bread or toasted ciabatta slices alongside the skillet dish. The crunchy texture is perfect for scooping up the cheesy sauce while adding a satisfying crunch.
3. Roasted or Grilled Vegetables
Lightly seasoned, roasted asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers bring color and nutrition to the plate. Grilling these vegetables on the Blackstone griddle imparts a subtle smoky flavor that complements the tortellini beautifully.
4. Garnishes for Added Depth
Before serving, sprinkle freshly chopped basil, parsley, or chives over the top. We find that a generous dusting of grated Parmesan adds sharp umami notes and an appealing finish.
5. Wine Pairing
For those who enjoy wine with their meal, a medium-bodied red such as Chianti or Sangiovese pairs excellently with the savory sausage and cheese flavors of this recipe. Alternatively, a dry white like Sauvignon Blanc offers a crisp counterbalance.
Quick Serving Suggestions Summary
| Serving Suggestion | Description | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Mixed Greens Salad | Light salad with vinaigrette | Balances richness and adds freshness |
| Garlic Bread | Toasted with garlic butter | Adds crunchy texture, helps soak up sauce |
| Roasted Vegetables | Asparagus, zucchini, peppers | Adds color, nutrition, and smoky flavor |
| Fresh Herb Garnish | Basil, parsley, chives | Enhances aroma and provides a fresh contrast |
| Wine Pairing | Chianti, Sangiovese or Sauvignon Blanc | Complements and contrasts flavors |
“We always find that these serving ideas bring out the best in our Blackstone Sausage Tortellini recipe, turning it into a complete and satisfying meal every time.“
Let’s enjoy this hearty dish with the perfect accompaniments to make every serving memorable.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
To enjoy our Blackstone Sausage Tortellini Recipe any time, planning ahead and proper storage are essential. Here’s how we can keep the dish fresh and flavorful.
Preparing Ahead for Convenience
- Cook in advance: Prepare the full dish as directed, then allow it to cool completely at room temperature for no more than 2 hours.
- Portion control: Divide the tortellini into airtight containers for easy reheating and serving.
- Label and date: Mark containers with the date cooked to ensure freshness.
Refrigeration Guidelines
- Store the prepared Blackstone Sausage Tortellini in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Keep containers sealed tightly to prevent odor absorption.
- When reheating, use medium heat either in a skillet or microwave to preserve texture and flavor.
Freezing for Longer Storage
If we want to store the sausage tortellini longer:
- Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
- Remove as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn.
- Freeze for up to 2 months without compromising the signature smoky taste.
Reheating Recommendations
For the best results:
| Method | Instructions | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Skillet | Heat over medium flame, add a splash of water or broth, cover loosely, stir occasionally. | Retains texture and smoky flavor. |
| Microwave | Cover loosely with a microwave-safe lid, heat in 1-minute intervals stirring in between. | Quick but may soften pasta slightly. |
| Oven | Place in an oven-safe dish, add butter or a drizzle of olive oil, cover with foil, 300°F for 15 minutes. | Even heating with minimal dryness. |
Important Storage Tips
“Proper storage preserves the bold, smoky flavors and the creamy, cheesy texture crucial to our Blackstone Sausage Tortellini.”
- Avoid refreezing thawed tortellini to maintain quality.
- Always ensure food reaches an internal temperature of 165°F when reheating.
By following these Make-Ahead and Storage Tips, we guarantee every bite of our Blackstone Sausage Tortellini remains just as satisfying as when freshly cooked.
Conclusion
Blackstone Sausage Tortellini is a fantastic way to bring bold, smoky flavors and creamy textures to your dinner table with minimal effort. Its versatility makes it perfect for both casual family meals and special occasions.
With the right tools and fresh ingredients, this recipe is straightforward to prepare and delivers impressive results every time. We’re confident it’ll become a favorite in your meal rotation, offering a satisfying blend of comfort and gourmet taste.
Give it a try and enjoy a delicious dish that’s as fun to cook as it is to eat.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of sausage is best for Blackstone Sausage Tortellini?
Italian sausage is recommended for its rich and savory flavor that complements the cheese-filled tortellini perfectly.
Can I use frozen tortellini for this recipe?
Yes, fresh or refrigerated tortellini works best, but frozen tortellini can be used if thawed and cooked according to package instructions.
What temperature should I set my Blackstone griddle to?
Preheat your Blackstone griddle to around 375°F to 400°F for optimal searing and smoky flavor.
How do I prevent tortellini from sticking on the griddle?
Toss the cooked tortellini with olive oil after boiling to lightly coat them and prevent sticking while cooking on the griddle.
Can I add spice to the dish?
Yes, optional crushed red pepper flakes can be added when cooking the sausage to give the dish a hint of heat.
How long can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
What are the best reheating methods?
Reheat using a skillet, microwave, or oven, taking care to maintain the creamy texture and smoky flavor by heating gently.
What sides pair well with Blackstone Sausage Tortellini?
Fresh side salads, garlic bread, roasted vegetables, and complementary wines like Chianti or Sauvignon Blanc work very well.
Do I need special tools to make this recipe?
Key tools include a Blackstone griddle, spatula, mixing bowl, measuring spoons, colander, chef’s knife, and cutting board for efficient prep and cooking.