Garlic Steak Tortellini is one of those dishes that feels restaurant-worthy yet comes together quickly in a single pan. It blends tender, seared steak with pillowy tortellini coated in a buttery garlic sauce—simple ingredients, bold flavor, and minimal cleanup. This is a recipe I often turn to when I want something indulgent without spending hours in the kitchen. The first time I made it, I tried swapping heavy cream for a splash of whole milk just to see if it would affect the sauce. Surprisingly, it still produced a silky texture, which made me realize how adaptable this dish can be. The combination of steak juices, garlic, and Parmesan creates a savory depth that pairs beautifully with the soft tortellini. Whether served for a family dinner or a special at-home date night, this recipe delivers comfort and elegance in every bite.
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Garlic Steak Tortellini
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
A rich and comforting dish featuring tender seared steak tossed with cheese tortellini in a buttery garlic cream sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 lb sirloin steak, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt (to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 (20 oz) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Cook tortellini according to package directions; drain and set aside.
- Season steak with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear steak slices for 2–3 minutes until browned; remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, add butter and melt over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream, Italian seasoning, and Parmesan. Stir and simmer until slightly thickened.
- Return steak to the skillet and add cooked tortellini. Toss to coat in the sauce.
- Cook for 2–3 more minutes until everything is heated through. Garnish with parsley and serve.
Notes
- For extra richness, add a splash of white wine before adding the cream.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest sauce.
- Substitute chicken or shrimp for the steak as desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
A perfect fusion of steakhouse richness and pasta comfort, this recipe cooks quickly, uses everyday ingredients, and delivers a deeply satisfying meal in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Steak (sirloin or ribeye)
This provides the hearty protein base. Sirloin gives a leaner bite, while ribeye offers richer marbling and tenderness. The seared edges add incredible flavor to the sauce.
Cheese tortellini
Fresh or refrigerated tortellini works best. Its soft texture absorbs the buttery garlic sauce beautifully, making each bite flavorful and satisfying.
Garlic
The backbone of the entire dish. Fresh garlic adds aromatic intensity and enhances the steak and sauce simultaneously.
Butter
It creates the silky foundation of the sauce. When combined with garlic and steak drippings, it develops a nutty depth.
Olive oil
Used for searing the steak. It ensures proper browning while preventing sticking.
Parmesan cheese
Adds savory sharpness and helps enrich the sauce. Freshly grated Parmesan melts more smoothly than pre-shredded varieties.
Heavy cream
This brings body and richness to the sauce. If you prefer a lighter version, you can reduce the amount or substitute with milk—I’ve tested both with success.
Salt and pepper
Simple, essential seasonings that highlight the natural flavors of the steak and tortellini.
Fresh parsley
Brightens the final dish with freshness and color.
Directions
Begin by seasoning the steak generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the steak pieces and sear until browned on all sides, cooking to your preferred doneness. Remove the steak from the pan and set aside. In the same skillet, lower the heat slightly and add butter. Once melted, stir in the garlic and sauté until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, allowing it to simmer gently and thicken. Stir in Parmesan until fully melted, creating a smooth, glossy sauce. Meanwhile, cook the tortellini according to package instructions, then drain and add it to the skillet. Toss to coat the tortellini evenly in the sauce. Return the steak to the pan and fold gently into the mixture. Simmer for a couple of minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Finish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
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
Serves 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: Approximately 30 minutes
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving for long periods as it can overcook the steak and tortellini.
Variations and Customizations
Creamy Mushroom Upgrade
Add sautéed mushrooms before the sauce for an earthy, steakhouse-style twist.
Spinach Tortellini Skillet
Stir in fresh spinach at the end; the heat will wilt it perfectly.
Spicy Garlic Version
Mix in crushed red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic for a subtle kick.
Herb-Infused Variation
Add thyme or rosemary to the skillet when searing the steak for added aroma.
Sun-Dried Tomato Twist
Fold chopped sun-dried tomatoes into the sauce for tangy sweetness.
Lightened-Up Version
Replace heavy cream with half milk, half broth. I’ve tried this method and still achieved a silky, flavorful sauce.
One-Pot Method
Cook the tortellini directly in the sauce with additional broth, eliminating the need for a second pot.
Cheese Lover’s Version
Add mozzarella pearls, allowing them to melt slightly into the hot pasta.
Bacon-Enhanced Version
Crisp some bacon and crumble it over the final dish for added smokiness.
Vegetable Boost
Include peas or roasted red peppers to add color and texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes, simply boil it according to package directions before adding it to the skillet.
What cut of steak works best?
Sirloin and ribeye are ideal, but flank steak also works if sliced thin.
Can I make this without cream?
Yes, substitute milk or broth, though the sauce will be lighter.
Can I prep this ahead of time?
You can cook the steak and tortellini in advance, but assemble with the sauce right before serving.
Why is my sauce grainy?
Pre-shredded Parmesan can cause graininess; use freshly grated cheese.
Can I add vegetables?
Yes, spinach, peas, mushrooms, or roasted peppers work well.
Will chicken work instead of steak?
Absolutely, chicken breast or thighs can replace steak if preferred.
Can I use dried tortellini?
You can, but it requires a longer cooking time and may absorb more sauce.
How do I keep the steak tender?
Avoid overcooking and slice against the grain if using a whole cut.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
No, but gluten-free tortellini can be used to adapt it.
Conclusion
Garlic Steak Tortellini is a flavorful, comforting skillet meal that combines tender steak, savory garlic, and creamy pasta into a dish that feels both effortless and indulgent. With its versatile ingredients and adaptable variations, it’s an excellent option for weeknights and special occasions alike. This recipe delivers reliable richness and satisfaction every time, making it a standout addition to your home cooking repertoire.
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