Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Steak and Tortellini Dinner is a rich and satisfying dish that combines juicy, perfectly cooked steak with tender cheese-filled tortellini tossed in a creamy sauce. This hearty pairing delivers the best of both worlds—comforting pasta and savory steak—making it a restaurant-worthy meal you can enjoy at home. The steak provides bold, meaty flavor, while the tortellini adds a decadent, cheesy bite, all tied together with a garlic cream or Parmesan sauce. It’s an ideal recipe for date nights, family dinners, or special occasions when you want to serve something impressive without overly complicated steps. With customizable sauces and easy add-ins like mushrooms, spinach, or sundried tomatoes, this dish is versatile enough to adapt to your tastes. Elegant yet approachable, Steak and Tortellini Dinner is comfort food elevated.
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Steak and Tortellini Dinner – A Hearty and Indulgent Meal
- Total Time: 40 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
A hearty and indulgent dinner featuring juicy pan-seared steak served alongside cheesy tortellini in a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce.
Ingredients
- 2 ribeye or sirloin steaks (about 1-inch thick)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh thyme or rosemary (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 (20 oz) package cheese tortellini
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for pasta)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook tortellini according to package directions. Drain, toss with 1 tbsp olive oil, and set aside.
- Season steaks generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat olive oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add steaks and cook 3–4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or to desired doneness.
- Add butter, garlic, and thyme/rosemary to the skillet. Tilt pan and spoon melted butter over steaks for 1–2 minutes.
- Remove steaks and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- In the same skillet, add heavy cream and Parmesan. Stir until sauce thickens, about 3–4 minutes. Add crushed red pepper flakes if desired.
- Toss cooked tortellini in the sauce until well coated.
- Serve sliced steak alongside creamy tortellini and garnish with fresh parsley.
Notes
- Use steak drippings in the sauce for extra flavor.
- Substitute Alfredo sauce if you prefer a shortcut.
- Pair with garlic bread or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Pan-Seared & Stovetop
- Cuisine: American-Italian
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Steak (sirloin, ribeye, or filet mignon) – Tender, juicy protein that anchors the dish.
Cheese tortellini – Adds richness and comfort, providing a creamy, cheesy bite in every forkful.
Olive oil – Used to sear the steak and enhance flavor.
Butter – Adds richness to the sauce and helps with searing.
Garlic – Freshly minced, infuses both the sauce and steak with aroma and flavor.
Heavy cream – Creates a luxurious, creamy sauce for the tortellini.
Parmesan cheese – Adds nutty, salty flavor to the sauce.
Spinach – Optional, for freshness and color.
Mushrooms – Optional, for earthy depth.
Salt and black pepper – Seasonings that enhance the dish.
Fresh parsley – For garnish and a pop of color.
Directions
Cook tortellini according to package directions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
Season steaks generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear steaks 3–4 minutes per side (depending on thickness) until desired doneness. Remove from the skillet, cover loosely with foil, and let rest.
In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Stir in mushrooms (if using) and cook until tender. Pour in heavy cream and simmer until slightly thickened, about 4 minutes. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add spinach and cooked tortellini, tossing to coat.
Slice the rested steak thinly against the grain. Serve over the creamy tortellini and garnish with parsley.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation takes 15 minutes, cooking requires 25 minutes, and the dish is ready in 40 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of cream or broth to keep the sauce smooth. Avoid reheating steak too long to prevent dryness.
Variations and Customizations
Spicy version – Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the cream sauce.
Tomato cream sauce – Stir in a spoonful of tomato paste for a blush-colored sauce.
Herb upgrade – Add fresh thyme or rosemary while cooking the steak for extra aroma.
Surf and turf – Add shrimp to the tortellini for a restaurant-style twist.
Blue cheese – Crumble blue cheese over the steak for bold flavor.
Pesto tortellini – Toss the pasta in pesto instead of cream sauce.
Wine sauce – Deglaze the pan with white wine before adding cream for extra depth.
Balsamic drizzle – Finish with balsamic glaze for sweet-tangy balance.
Vegetable boost – Add sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or zucchini to the sauce.
Gluten-free option – Use gluten-free pasta if available.
FAQs
What steak cut works best for this recipe?
Sirloin, ribeye, or filet mignon are excellent choices for tenderness and flavor.
Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes, just cook according to package directions before adding to the sauce.
Can I make this without cream?
Yes, substitute with half-and-half, though the sauce will be lighter.
How do I know when my steak is cooked perfectly?
Use a meat thermometer: 130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium, 150°F for medium-well.
Can I prep this ahead of time?
Cook the pasta and prep ingredients in advance, but cook steak fresh for best results.
Can I use chicken instead of steak?
Yes, chicken breasts or thighs work as a lighter alternative.
Is this dish very heavy?
It’s rich, but you can lighten it by using less cream or adding more vegetables.
Can I make it without mushrooms?
Yes, simply omit them or replace with another vegetable.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, just cook the steak in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
What sides go well with this dish?
Garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad pair beautifully.
Conclusion
Steak and Tortellini Dinner is a flavorful, indulgent dish that combines juicy steak with creamy, cheesy tortellini for a restaurant-quality meal at home. Versatile and customizable, it can be tailored to your preferences with different sauces, vegetables, or toppings. Perfect for date nights, family meals, or special occasions, this recipe delivers comfort and elegance in every bite.
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