Garlic Steak Tortellini: A Rich and Flavorful Skillet Dinner

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Garlic steak tortellini is the perfect combination of comfort food and bold, savory flavor. Tender steak bites, pillowy cheese-filled tortellini, and a garlicky, buttery sauce come together in one skillet for a meal that feels indulgent yet surprisingly easy to prepare. I like making this dish when I want something hearty but still refined enough to serve guests. The garlic aroma alone makes the kitchen feel inviting. I tested this recipe with different steak cuts, and sirloin delivered the best balance of tenderness and flavor without requiring long cooking times. This is a satisfying dinner that works just as well for a cozy weeknight as it does for a special occasion.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Steak
Steak is the star of this dish, providing rich, savory flavor. Sirloin or ribeye works best, as both cook quickly and remain tender when seared properly.

Cheese tortellini
Cheese tortellini adds a soft, comforting texture that pairs beautifully with the bold garlic and steak flavors.

Butter
Butter forms the base of the sauce, adding richness and helping carry the garlic flavor throughout the dish.

Garlic
Garlic gives this recipe its signature taste. Using freshly minced garlic creates a more aromatic and robust sauce.

Heavy cream
Heavy cream softens the garlic and butter, creating a smooth, velvety coating for the tortellini.

Parmesan cheese
Parmesan adds saltiness and depth, enhancing the overall savory profile of the dish.

Olive oil
Olive oil is used to sear the steak, ensuring a golden crust without burning.

Black pepper
Black pepper adds subtle heat and balances the richness of the sauce.

Italian seasoning
Italian seasoning brings mild herbal notes that complement both the steak and tortellini.

Fresh parsley
Parsley provides a fresh finish and light contrast to the rich sauce.

Directions

Begin by cooking the tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside. While the tortellini cooks, cut the steak into bite-sized pieces and season lightly with black pepper and Italian seasoning.

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak pieces in a single layer and sear until browned on all sides and cooked to your preferred doneness. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.

Lower the heat and add butter to the skillet. Once melted, add the garlic and cook briefly until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and stir gently, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Allow the sauce to simmer until slightly thickened.

Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet and toss to coat evenly in the sauce. Return the steak to the pan and stir gently to combine. Sprinkle in Parmesan cheese and cook until the sauce is smooth and glossy. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Essential Equipment

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

This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation takes about 15 minutes, cooking time is approximately 25 minutes, and resting time is 5 minutes before serving.

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a small splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce if needed.

Variations and Customizations

Garlic steak tortellini is easy to adapt. You can add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra depth and texture. I have also tested this recipe using chicken instead of steak, which creates a lighter but equally flavorful version.

For a stronger garlic profile, roasted garlic can be incorporated into the sauce. If you prefer a less creamy dish, reduce the amount of cream and add a splash of pasta water instead. This recipe also works well with different tortellini fillings, such as spinach and ricotta or mushroom.

Nutrition and Dietary Info

This dish provides protein from steak and cheese, carbohydrates from tortellini, and fats from butter and cream. It is filling and best enjoyed in moderation. It is not suitable for dairy-free or gluten-free diets without substitutions.

Expert Tips & Customizations

Sear steak in batches
Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure proper browning.

Do not overcook steak
Remove steak promptly to keep it tender.

Balance the sauce
Adjust cream and Parmesan to reach your preferred richness.

Serve immediately
The sauce is best when freshly made.

FAQs

What cut of steak works best?

Sirloin or ribeye are ideal for tenderness and flavor.

Can I use frozen tortellini?

Yes, cook it according to package instructions before using.

Can I make this ahead of time?

It is best fresh, but leftovers reheat well.

Is this dish very rich?

It is creamy but can be lightened with less cream.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, mushrooms and spinach work especially well.

Can I substitute milk for cream?

Milk can be used, but the sauce will be thinner.

How do I keep steak tender?

Avoid overcooking and let it rest briefly.

Can I make it spicy?

Add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.

What cheese works besides Parmesan?

Pecorino Romano is a good alternative.

What should I serve with it?

A simple salad or steamed vegetables pair well.

Conclusion

Garlic steak tortellini is a satisfying, flavorful dish that brings together tender steak, creamy sauce, and comforting pasta in one skillet. It is easy enough for weeknight cooking yet impressive enough for entertaining. With its bold garlic notes and rich texture, this recipe is sure to become a favorite for anyone who enjoys hearty, well-balanced meals.

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