When you’re craving something hearty and downright luxurious but still want dinner to be fast and easy, this Garlic Parmesan Steak Tortellini Recipe will steal the show. Succulent sirloin steak is seared to perfection, then joined by pillowy cheese tortellini in the creamiest garlic parmesan sauce you’ve ever tasted. Each bite is a symphony of flavor, making this dish perfect for cozy family dinners, quick weeknight meals, or even a dinner party with friends. The best part? It all comes together in just 30 minutes and uses everyday ingredients you probably already have on hand!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is wonderfully simple, relying on just a handful of ingredients that each add their own flair—whether that’s rich creamy texture, mouthwatering flavors, or a pop of color at the end. Here’s what you’ll need and why they matter:
- Cheese tortellini: These little pasta pillows soak up every drop of sauce and add a delicious, cheesy bite to each forkful.
- Olive oil: A key for searing the steak, lending a subtle fruity note and helping things crisp up beautifully.
- Sirloin steak: Tender, juicy, and full of beefy flavor, especially when cut into bite-sized pieces for quick, even cooking.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning both the steak and the overall dish—don’t be shy, it makes all the flavors pop.
- Unsalted butter: Adds richness and smoothness to the sauce, balancing the garlic and cheese.
- Garlic cloves: The bold, aromatic backbone of the sauce, infusing everything with savory warmth.
- Heavy cream: The secret to that velvety, restaurant-style sauce—makes everything irresistibly silky.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Brings deep, nutty flavor and thickens the sauce—don’t skimp on a good-quality wedge if you can.
- Italian seasoning: A simple way to add layers of herby flavor without cluttering your pantry.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For a little kick of heat if you like your creamy pasta with a spicy edge.
- Chopped fresh parsley: Adds freshness and a burst of color, making the finished bowl extra inviting.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Steak Tortellini Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Tortellini
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil, then drop in the cheese tortellini and cook according to the package instructions until they float to the top—typically just a few minutes. Strain them and set aside. This step sets the foundation for the Garlic Parmesan Steak Tortellini Recipe, ensuring the pasta is perfectly tender and ready to absorb all that creamy sauce.
Step 2: Sear the Steak
While the tortellini is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Pat your sirloin steak pieces dry, then generously season them with salt and pepper. Add the steak to the hot pan and sear for 2-3 minutes per side so you get that beautiful, caramelized crust. Remove the pieces to a plate and set aside. Searing the steak this way locks in the juices for maximum tenderness and flavor.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Turn the heat down to medium, melt the unsalted butter in the same skillet, and add the minced garlic. Stir it around for 30 seconds or so, just until fragrant, making sure not to burn it. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using. Let this heavenly mixture simmer for a few minutes to thicken and meld the flavors, creating the luscious backbone of your Garlic Parmesan Steak Tortellini Recipe.
Step 4: Combine It All
Add the cooked tortellini and reserved steak pieces back into the pan, tossing everything gently to make sure each bit gets coated with that creamy sauce. Cook for another minute or two, just until everything is heated through and flavors are mingling perfectly. Taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed. The dish is now ready to enjoy, bursting with flavor from every direction!
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Take the finished Garlic Parmesan Steak Tortellini Recipe off the heat and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. This final touch gives a pop of color and a hint of herbal freshness, turning a skillet dinner into a total showstopper.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Steak Tortellini Recipe
Garnishes
For the perfect finish, sprinkle extra grated Parmesan over the top, add a handful of chopped fresh parsley, and, if you love a little spice, a dash more crushed red pepper flakes. A squeeze of lemon juice or a drizzle of good olive oil can also add a fresh zing right before serving. These small touches make each serving of Garlic Parmesan Steak Tortellini Recipe feel restaurant-worthy.
Side Dishes
Serve this rich, creamy pasta with a crisp green salad tossed in a bright vinaigrette to balance the flavors. Garlic bread or warm, crusty baguette is also a classic choice, perfect for soaking up every last drop of that dreamy sauce. For something extra special, try roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccolini alongside the main dish.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy weeknight, serve straight from the skillet family-style at the table. If you’re hosting, portion the Garlic Parmesan Steak Tortellini Recipe into shallow bowls and top each one with extra steak pieces and a cloud of Parmesan for that wow factor. For a fun twist, try serving it in mini cast iron pans, or set up a DIY pasta bar with different toppings and sides for guests to customize their plates.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The sauce will thicken as it sits, but the flavors actually intensify, making the Garlic Parmesan Steak Tortellini Recipe just as delicious the next day. Leave garnishes off until serving for the freshest finish.
Freezing
While tortellini and steak generally freeze well, the creamy sauce can sometimes separate when thawed. If you want to freeze, do so before tossing everything together—freeze the steak, tortellini, and sauce components separately for best results. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove.
Reheating
To reheat, add a splash of cream or milk to the pasta and warm it in a skillet over low heat, stirring often until heated through and creamy again. The microwave works too, but use medium power and stir halfway for even warming. Always garnish with fresh parsley and Parmesan after reheating for the brightest flavor.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of steak?
Absolutely! Ribeye, strip steak, or even filet mignon will all work beautifully in this recipe. Just be sure to keep the pieces bite-sized, and adjust the searing time so you don’t overcook the steak.
What’s the best way to make this Garlic Parmesan Steak Tortellini Recipe vegetarian?
Swap the steak for sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for a fantastic vegetarian twist. The rich, garlicky parmesan sauce still gives the dish tons of flavor and satisfaction.
Can I use dried tortellini instead of fresh or frozen?
You can! Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions, and remember that dried tortellini may not be as tender or pillowy as the fresh or frozen kind, but it will still be delicious.
How can I lighten up the sauce?
Try using half-and-half instead of heavy cream, or even a combination of milk and Greek yogurt for a tangier, lighter option. The sauce will be slightly less rich but still flavorful and creamy.
Can this dish be made ahead for entertaining?
Yes! You can prep the steak and sauce a day in advance. Cook the tortellini just before serving, toss everything together, and warm gently. Garnish at the last minute to keep everything tasting fresh and vibrant.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a new comfort food favorite, don’t hesitate to try this Garlic Parmesan Steak Tortellini Recipe. It’s quick, unfussy, and absolutely packed with flavor—truly the kind of dish you’ll want to make again and again. Let me know how yours turns out!
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Garlic Parmesan Steak Tortellini Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in a decadent yet easy-to-make Garlic Parmesan Steak Tortellini that combines tender cheese tortellini, seared sirloin steak, and a creamy Parmesan sauce with a hint of garlic and Italian seasonings.
Ingredients
Tortellini:
- 1 pound cheese tortellini, refrigerated or frozen
Steak:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Creamy Parmesan Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Tortellini: Prepare tortellini according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Sear the Steak: Season steak with salt and pepper. Sear in a skillet for 2–3 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter, add garlic, cook briefly. Pour in cream, simmer. Stir in Parmesan, seasoning, and pepper flakes.
- Combine and Serve: Add tortellini and steak to the sauce. Toss to coat and heat through. Garnish with parsley.
Notes
- You can use chicken instead of steak.
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Enhance with sautéed mushrooms or spinach.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 410mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 135mg
