Garlic Steak & Cheese-Filled Tortellini Skillet

This hearty and indulgent dish combines tender steak, creamy cheese-filled tortellini, and a rich garlic sauce to create a meal that’s both flavorful and satisfying. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it comes together quickly with minimal effort, making it an instant favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Garlic Steak & Cheese-Filled Tortellini Skillet offers a delightful balance of textures and flavors. The juicy, perfectly seared steak pairs wonderfully with the soft, cheesy tortellini. The garlic butter sauce, infused with rich cream and Parmesan, binds the ingredients together, delivering a comforting, savory experience. It’s a meal that’s filling enough for dinner but elegant enough to serve to guests. Plus, the simplicity of the dish means you can enjoy gourmet flavor without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For Steak:

• 1 lb sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into bite-sized pieces

• Salt & black pepper

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 2 tbsp butter

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

For Tortellini:

• 18 oz refrigerated cheese tortellini

• 1 tbsp butter

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1/2 cup chicken broth

• 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 cup baby spinach (optional)

• Salt & pepper to taste

• Red pepper flakes (optional)

• Fresh chopped parsley or basil, for garnish

Directions

1. Cook the tortellini: Begin by cooking the tortellini according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.

2. Sear the steak: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the steak pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Sear the steak for 2-3 minutes per side until it’s nicely browned. Once done, remove the steak from the skillet and set it aside.

3. Prepare the garlic butter sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat and sauté the minced garlic for about one minute, or until fragrant. Carefully pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, stirring to loosen any bits of steak left in the skillet. Then, add the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer.

4. Add the Parmesan: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and mix until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Return the cooked steak to the skillet and fold in the spinach, if using.

5. Combine the tortellini: Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet, tossing everything together so the pasta is coated with the rich sauce. Let everything simmer for 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

6. Garnish and serve: Finish the dish by garnishing with fresh parsley or basil and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little extra heat, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Skip the steak and substitute with grilled vegetables or tofu for a vegetarian alternative.

• Add Extra Veggies: In addition to or instead of spinach, try adding other vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for more flavor and texture.

• Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add some sliced jalapeños to the sauce.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, you can microwave it, stirring every 30 seconds until hot.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different cut of steak for this recipe?

Yes! You can use other cuts like flank steak or tenderloin, but ribeye or sirloin provides a great balance of tenderness and flavor.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

This dish is best served fresh, but you can prepare the components (steak, tortellini, and sauce) ahead of time and reheat before serving.

3. Can I use frozen tortellini instead of refrigerated?

Yes, frozen tortellini can be used, but you may need to cook it for an extra minute or two.

4. What if I don’t have chicken broth?

If you don’t have chicken broth, you can substitute with vegetable broth or even water in a pinch, although the flavor might be slightly less rich.

5. Can I add more cheese to the sauce?

Absolutely! Feel free to add more Parmesan or even mozzarella for a cheesier, thicker sauce.

6. Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?

To make this recipe dairy-free, use dairy-free butter, heavy cream alternatives like coconut cream or almond milk, and nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese alternative.

7. How can I make this dish spicier?

Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a splash of hot sauce to the sauce for an extra kick.

8. Can I freeze the leftovers?

While this dish can be frozen, the texture of the cream sauce may change upon reheating. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days.

9. What other herbs can I use for garnish?

Basil, thyme, or even chives can be great alternatives to parsley, depending on your flavor preferences.

10. Can I make this recipe without spinach?

Yes, the spinach is optional. You can skip it or substitute with another leafy green like kale or arugula.

Conclusion

Garlic Steak & Cheese-Filled Tortellini Skillet is the perfect blend of creamy, savory, and satisfying flavors, making it a delicious meal that’s quick and easy to prepare. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish will impress anyone at your table. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a crowd-pleaser you’ll want to make again and again.