Loaded Cajun Alfredo Tortellini Skillet
This Loaded Cajun Alfredo Tortellini Skillet is a bold, creamy, and flavor-packed one-pan dinner! Cheese-filled tortellini is tossed in a rich Cajun-spiced Alfredo sauce with juicy sausage, tender chicken, and colorful peppers. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s the perfect weeknight comfort meal with a spicy Southern twist!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- Cheese tortellini – Use refrigerated or frozen. Both work fine.
- Protein – Smoked sausage cooked chicken, or shrimp make it “loaded.”
- Butter and garlic – Start the sauce with these for flavor.
- Heavy cream – The base of the Alfredo sauce.
- Parmesan cheese – Adds richness and thickens the sauce.
- Cajun seasoning – A mix of paprika cayenne, garlic powder, and herbs.
- Salt and pepper – Adjust to taste.
- Olive oil – For cooking the protein.
Optional Add-Ins
- Bell peppers or spinach for color and freshness.
- Red pepper flakes for more heat.
- Extra mozzarella on top for a cheesy finish.
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Protein
- Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- If you’re using smoked sausage, slice it and brown both sides for 3–4 minutes.
- If you’re using chicken, cut it into bite-size pieces, season with Cajun spice, and cook until golden brown.
- If you’re using shrimp, cook it last since it only takes 2–3 minutes.
- Remove the cooked protein from the pan and set it aside.
Step 2: Make the Cajun Alfredo Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt two tablespoons of butter.
- Add two cloves of minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in one cup of heavy cream. Let it warm up but don’t boil it.
- Whisk in half a cup of grated Parmesan cheese until smooth.
- Now stir in one tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Taste it. Add more if you like it spicier.
Step 3: Cook the Tortellini
- If you’re using refrigerated tortellini, cook it in boiling water for 3–4 minutes. Drain it well.
- If you’re using frozen tortellini, follow the package instructions.
- Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything gently until the pasta is coated.
Step 4: Combine and Heat
- Add the cooked protein back into the pan.
- Stir well so everything mixes evenly with the creamy sauce.
- If the sauce feels too thick, add a few tablespoons of pasta water or milk to loosen it.
- If you want a cheesy top, sprinkle mozzarella on top and broil it in the oven for 2–3 minutes.
Step 5: Serve
- Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions.
- Serve hot with garlic bread or a simple green salad.
Video
Notes
📝 Notes
- Use refrigerated cheese tortellini for best texture and quick cooking.
- Swap Cajun sausage with chicken or shrimp for a lighter twist.
- Add bell peppers, onions, and spinach for extra flavor and color.
- Use a mix of heavy cream and milk to adjust sauce richness.
- Toss pasta directly in the skillet to let it absorb the creamy Cajun sauce.
- For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne or hot sauce before serving.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container up to 3 days; reheat gently with a splash of milk.
- Top with grated Parmesan and fresh parsley for a restaurant-style finish.