There’s something irresistible about the union of tender cheese-filled pasta and succulent bites of sirloin steak tossed in a velvety, garlic-kissed sauce. Every forkful of this Buttery Steak Tortellini feels like a warm hug on a plate, whether you’re serving it for a cozy weeknight dinner or impressing guests at your next gathering. With just a handful of pantry staples—cheese tortellini, juicy steak, rich heavy cream, and fragrant garlic—you can whip up a restaurant-worthy experience right in your own kitchen. And the best part? This dish strikes the perfect balance between comfort food charm and an elevated twist, making it an ideal recipe for cooks looking to stretch their skills without getting overwhelmed.
As an intermediate-level recipe, it bridges the gap between simple pastas and those fancier dishes you dream of mastering. In about 15 minutes of prep and 25 minutes of cooking time, you’ll have a hearty 700-calorie meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. The creamy sauce clings to each plump tortellini, while the steak adds a satisfying chew and meaty depth. Garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, it’s a feast for your eyes as much as your taste buds. Gather your olive oil, butter, garlic, and Parmesan, and get ready to savor every mouthful of this ultimate comfort classic.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN BUTTERY STEAK TORTELLINI
Before diving into the cooking process, it’s helpful to get acquainted with the cast of characters that make this dish so memorable. Each ingredient plays an important role—some bring creaminess, others deepen the savoriness, and a few add those bright finishing touches we all love.
- Cheese tortellini
These pillowy pasta pockets are filled with creamy cheese, making them the perfect vessel for soaking up the luscious garlic sauce. Their hearty texture pairs beautifully with tender chunks of steak.
- Sirloin steak
Cut into bite-sized pieces, sirloin adds a juicy, savory element that elevates this from ordinary pasta to a satisfying main course. Its natural beefy flavor stands up beautifully against the rich cream.
- Unsalted butter
When melted, butter provides a silky base for the sauce, enriching every layer of flavor and helping to carry the garlic’s aroma throughout the dish.
- Garlic
Minced garlic offers a bold, fragrant kick that awakens your senses. Cooked just briefly, it releases that unmistakable warmth without turning bitter.
- Heavy cream
This is where the magic happens: heavy cream yields a luxuriously thick sauce that clings to both steak and pasta, ensuring every bite is decadently smooth.
- Beef broth
A splash of beef broth brightens the sauce and adds an extra depth of umami, rounding out the creaminess with a hint of savory complexity.
- Parmesan cheese
Freshly grated, Parmesan melts into the sauce, contributing a nutty, salty richness that ties all the flavors together in perfect harmony.
- Olive oil
A drizzle of olive oil ensures the steak sears beautifully, creating a golden crust that locks in juices and flavor.
- Fresh parsley
Chopped parsley brings a touch of freshness and color to the finished dish, cutting through the richness with its green, herbaceous note.
- Salt and pepper
Simple seasonings that are crucial for enhancing and balancing every component, from the steak to the sauce itself.
HOW TO MAKE BUTTERY STEAK TORTELLINI
Let’s break down the process step by step. From cooking the tortellini to building that dreamy sauce, each stage is straightforward yet essential for bringing out the full, comforting flavors of this dish. Follow along closely, and you’ll end up with a rich, restaurant-quality meal in no time.
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to package instructions until al dente, ensuring each piece retains a slight bite. Drain thoroughly and set aside so they’re ready to soak up the sauce.
2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil and allow it to shimmer. Season the sirloin steak pieces generously with salt and pepper. Place them in the hot skillet and sear until they’re browned on all sides and cooked to your preferred doneness. Remove the steak with a slotted spoon and set aside, keeping those flavorful juices in the pan.
3. Reduce the heat to medium and add the unsalted butter to the same skillet. Once the butter is completely melted, stir in the minced garlic and cook just until fragrant, about 30 seconds—be careful not to let it brown or burn.
4. Pour in the heavy cream and beef broth, stirring gently to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly over 2–3 minutes. Watch as the sauce transforms into a silky, luxurious base.
5. Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Return the cooked tortellini and steak to the skillet, gently tossing everything together so each piece is evenly coated.
6. Remove the skillet from the heat and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve immediately while it’s hot, creamy, and utterly irresistible.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR BUTTERY STEAK TORTELLINI
When it comes to plating and pairing this rich, indulgent pasta, you want complementary elements that elevate the flavors without overwhelming them. A few simple touches can turn a great meal into an unforgettable dining experience that feels both cozy and special.
- Crusty garlic bread
There’s nothing quite like tearing off a piece of warm, crispy bread to mop up every last bit of that creamy garlic sauce. Brush slices of baguette with garlic-infused butter, toast until golden, and serve alongside your pasta.
- Simple green salad
A crisp bed of mixed greens dressed with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast. The acidity helps cut through the richness, creating a balanced bite.
- Red wine pairing
Choose a medium-bodied red like a Merlot or Chianti. Its fruity undertones and moderate tannins will stand up to the steak and creamy sauce without overpowering them.
- Extra Parmesan topping
Keep a small bowl of freshly grated Parmesan on the table. Guests can sprinkle a little extra for added saltiness and umami, customizing each forkful to their taste.
HOW TO STORE BUTTERY STEAK TORTELLINI
Knowing how to store this decadent pasta properly ensures you can savor leftovers without sacrificing quality. Whether you plan to enjoy it the next day or freeze it for a later weeknight rescue, these storage tips will keep your dish tasting fresh and delicious.
- Refrigerate in an airtight container
Allow the pasta to cool slightly, then transfer to a sealed container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to revive the sauce’s creamy consistency.
- Freeze for longer storage
Portion the cooled pasta into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty resealable bags. Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheat with care
To prevent the sauce from separating, reheat over low heat on the stovetop, stirring frequently. Adding a small amount of cream or broth helps restore the sauce’s silkiness.
- Separate components
If you anticipate storing leftovers often, consider portioning the tortellini, steak, and sauce separately. That way, you can reheat each part individually, ensuring the best texture and flavor every time.
CONCLUSION
This Buttery Steak Tortellini recipe brings together two of life’s greatest comforts: perfectly cooked, cheese-filled pasta and juicy, seared steak, all bathed in a dreamy garlic cream sauce. Over the course of about 40 minutes—from prep to plate—you’ll discover how a few quality ingredients can transform your kitchen into the coziest Italian trattoria. Whether you’re an intermediate cook eager to learn new techniques or a home cook craving a dinner that’s both satisfying and impressive, this dish is your ticket to a memorable meal. Feel free to print this article or save it in your recipe binder, so you can revisit it whenever you’re in the mood for something really special.
Below you’ll find a FAQ section to tackle any lingering questions, from ingredient swaps to troubleshooting sauce consistency. If you decide to try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it went! Leave a comment with your tweaks, successes, or any questions you have—I’m always here to help you bring out the best in every dish. Happy cooking, and enjoy every creamy, savory bite of this ultimate comfort food!
Buttery Steak Tortellini
Description
Picture perfectly cooked tortellini enveloped in a creamy garlic sauce, complemented by tender bites of steak. This dish is a delightful combination of textures and rich flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil. Season the steak pieces with salt and pepper. Add the steak to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked to your desired level of doneness. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
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In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add butter. Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
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Stir in the heavy cream and beef broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly for about 2-3 minutes.
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Stir in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Add the cooked tortellini and steak to the skillet, tossing them to coat in the sauce evenly.
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Remove from the heat and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve immediately.
Note
- For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the sauce when adding the beef broth.
- You can substitute the sirloin steak with another type of steak or even chicken for variations.
- Adding mushrooms or spinach to the dish can offer additional depth of flavor.
- Adjust the level of creaminess by altering the amount of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese to your liking.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of crusty garlic bread or a simple green salad.
