If you love the bold flavor of steak and the comforting richness of pasta, this Garlic Steak Tortellini is your new favorite dinner recipe. Juicy, tender bites of steak are seared to perfection and tossed with cheese-filled tortellini in a creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce. It’s hearty, flavorful, and feels like a restaurant-quality meal made right at home—ready in under 40 minutes.
The first time I made this dish, I couldn’t believe how quickly it came together. Once, I added sautéed mushrooms and spinach for a little extra flair, and it became a family favorite. Every bite is loaded with buttery garlic, juicy steak, and cheesy pasta—it’s indulgence at its best.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Garlic Steak Tortellini is the perfect combination of rich, savory, and creamy. The seared steak brings incredible flavor, while the tortellini adds a cheesy, comforting texture that balances the dish beautifully. It’s quick enough for a weeknight but elegant enough for a date night. Plus, it’s all made in one skillet for easy cleanup.
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Garlic Steak Tortellini: A Decadent, Cheesy, and Savory Skillet Delight
- Total Time: 25 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
Juicy, tender steak bites tossed with cheese tortellini in a rich garlic butter sauce — a quick, flavorful, and indulgent dinner that tastes like a restaurant meal made at home.
Ingredients
- 1 pound sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 (9-ounce) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook tortellini according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Pat steak pieces dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the steak in a single layer and sear for 2–3 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked to desired doneness. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Reduce heat to medium and add butter to the same skillet. Once melted, stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes (if using), then add cooked tortellini and toss to coat in the garlic butter sauce.
- Return the steak to the skillet and toss everything together until heated through and coated evenly in the sauce.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- For extra richness, add a splash of heavy cream or a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese.
- Use any type of tortellini — cheese, spinach, or meat-filled all work well.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing the steak; work in batches for the best browning.
- Pairs beautifully with a side salad or garlic bread.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American / Italian Fusion
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen) – Tender pasta filled with rich cheese, perfect for soaking up the sauce.
Steak (sirloin, ribeye, or flank steak) – Cut into bite-sized pieces for quick, even cooking.
Butter – Adds richness and helps build the garlic sauce.
Olive oil – For searing the steak and enhancing flavor.
Garlic (minced) – The heart of the sauce, infusing every bite with bold, aromatic flavor.
Heavy cream – Creates a velvety base for the sauce.
Beef broth – Enhances the depth of flavor and keeps the sauce savory.
Parmesan cheese (grated) – Adds nutty, salty richness to the creamy sauce.
Italian seasoning – Balances the flavors with a touch of herbs.
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional) – For a hint of heat.
Salt and black pepper – To season the steak and sauce.
Fresh parsley (optional) – For garnish and color.
Directions
- Cook the tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the tortellini according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Sear the steak: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the steak pieces with salt and pepper, then sear on all sides until browned and cooked to your liking (about 2–3 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.
- Make the garlic sauce: In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add butter and minced garlic, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant. Whisk in beef broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine.
- Add cheese and seasoning: Stir in Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Combine everything: Add the cooked tortellini and steak back into the skillet. Toss to coat everything evenly in the creamy garlic sauce.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan. Serve immediately with garlic bread or a crisp salad.
Equipment needed
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people and takes about 35 minutes total—15 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cooking. It’s the perfect fast yet luxurious dinner option.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of cream or broth to keep the sauce creamy. Freezing is not recommended, as dairy sauces can separate when thawed.
Variations and Customizations
Garlic Mushroom Steak Tortellini
Add sautéed mushrooms to the sauce for earthy, rich flavor.
Spinach and Steak Tortellini
Stir in fresh spinach during the last minute of cooking for added color and nutrition.
Spicy Garlic Steak Tortellini
Increase the red pepper flakes or add a drizzle of chili oil for a kick.
Cheesy Alfredo Steak Tortellini
Mix mozzarella and cream cheese into the sauce for an ultra-creamy version.
Lemon Garlic Version
Add a splash of lemon juice and zest for a fresh, tangy twist.
Herb Butter Steak Tortellini
Top the dish with a pat of garlic-herb butter just before serving for extra richness.
FAQs
1. What’s the best cut of steak to use?
Sirloin, ribeye, or New York strip work best for tenderness and flavor.
2. Can I use chicken instead of steak?
Yes, you can substitute grilled or pan-seared chicken for a lighter version.
3. Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes—just boil it a few minutes longer according to the package directions.
4. How do I make the sauce thicker?
Simmer longer or stir in a tablespoon of grated Parmesan or cream cheese.
5. Can I make this without cream?
You can use half-and-half or evaporated milk for a lighter sauce.
6. Can I use pre-cooked steak?
Yes, just add it to the sauce near the end to warm it through.
7. Can I make it ahead of time?
It’s best served fresh, but you can prep the sauce and steak ahead and combine before serving.
8. Can I use a different cheese?
Mozzarella, Asiago, or Romano can be mixed with Parmesan for variation.
9. Can I add vegetables?
Yes—mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes pair beautifully with this dish.
10. What should I serve with it?
Garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted asparagus make perfect sides.
Conclusion
Garlic Steak Tortellini is the ultimate fusion of hearty and elegant—tender steak, cheesy pasta, and a creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce that’s pure indulgence. It’s a simple yet sophisticated meal that feels special every time you make it. Whether it’s for a romantic dinner or an elevated family meal, this recipe is guaranteed to impress with its rich flavor and comforting charm.
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