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Garlic Steak Tortellini Recipe

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4.3 from 6 reviews

Garlic Steak Tortellini is a hearty and flavorful dish that perfectly blends tender sirloin steak, cheese tortellini, and a creamy garlic butter sauce all cooked in one skillet. Ready in just 25 minutes, it offers a rich, savory flavor reminiscent of steakhouse dining but made conveniently at home. Ideal for quick weeknight dinners or more special occasions, this recipe boasts an American-Italian fusion twist that will satisfy any comfort food craving.

  • Author: Emma
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American, Italian Fusion

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1.5 lb sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 2 Tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 20 oz cheese tortellini, fresh or frozen
  • 1 Tbsp salt (for pasta water)

Garlic Butter Sauce

  • 4 Tbsp butter
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1.5 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
  • 1/2 tsp salt (to taste)
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper (to taste)
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 cup reserved pasta water, as needed

Garnish

  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup extra Parmesan cheese for topping

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Steak: Cut the sirloin steak into bite-sized pieces about 1 inch thick. Pat the pieces dry thoroughly with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Season all sides evenly with 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and 1 tsp Italian seasoning. Allow the steak to rest for 10 minutes to absorb the seasoning.
  2. Sear the Steak: Heat a large skillet or cast iron pan over high heat until it just begins to smoke. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil, then quickly add the steak pieces. Sear each side for about 2 minutes to develop a rich brown crust. Once browned, remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Cook the Tortellini: While the steak is searing, bring a large pot of water to a boil and add 1 tablespoon of salt. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to package instructions, usually 2 to 4 minutes until tender. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water before draining the tortellini. Do not rinse the pasta to preserve its starch for the sauce.
  4. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium in the same skillet used for the steak and melt 4 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned. Pour in 1.5 cups of heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Gradually stir in 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season the sauce with 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning for balanced flavor.
  5. Combine Tortellini and Steak with Sauce: Add the cooked tortellini directly into the garlic cream sauce and toss gently to coat each piece thoroughly. Return the seared steak bites to the skillet and stir gently to combine everything evenly. Let the mixture cook together for 1 to 2 minutes to meld the flavors.
  6. Adjust Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, gradually add up to 1/2 cup of the reserved pasta water a little at a time, stirring until you achieve a glossy, smooth sauce consistency perfect for coating the tortellini and steak.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and sprinkle the dish with 1/4 cup fresh chopped parsley and an additional 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese for a final flavor boost. Serve immediately to enjoy the best texture and richness.

Notes

  • Use high heat to properly sear the steak and develop a rich, caramelized crust without overcooking the interior.
  • Do not overcook the tortellini to prevent it from becoming gummy; follow package instructions closely.
  • Serve immediately after cooking to maintain ideal texture and flavor of the steak and sauce.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • When reheating leftovers, gently warm with a splash of cream or milk to restore the creamy sauce consistency.