If you’re craving a dinner that delivers big on flavor, comfort, and just the right amount of indulgence, the Garlic Steak & Cheese-Filled Tortellini Skillet Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. This dish brings together tender, juicy steak bites with pillowy cheese-filled tortellini, all bathed in a luscious, garlicky cream sauce that’s sprinkled with fresh parsley and a hint of spice. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug after a long day, yet comes together in less than 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or casual weekend feasts.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, high-quality ingredients is the key to making this Garlic Steak & Cheese-Filled Tortellini Skillet Recipe sing. Each component plays a crucial role— from the rich cream that creates a dreamy sauce, to the fresh garlic that infuses bold flavor, and of course the tender steak and cheesy tortellini that bring it all together.
- 1 pound cheese-filled tortellini: Opt for fresh or refrigerated for the best texture and melt-in-your-mouth cheese goodness.
- 1 pound sirloin or ribeye steak: Cut into bite-sized pieces to ensure even searing and easy eating.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and helps develop that irresistible golden crust on the steak.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: The star of the show that elevates the sauce with its aromatic punch.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the creamy base that makes this skillet feel indulgent yet comforting.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: For a nutty, salty depth that melts perfectly into the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped: Brightens and freshens the dish, adding a pop of color.
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Brings a gentle kick for those who like a bit of heat.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning that balances and enhances every ingredient.
How to Make Garlic Steak & Cheese-Filled Tortellini Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Tortellini
Begin by cooking the cheese-filled tortellini according to the package instructions—usually boiling until they float to the top and reach that perfect al dente texture. Drain them well and set aside, as they’ll soon be coated in the luscious sauce that brings this dish to life.
Step 2: Season and Sear the Steak
Pat your steak pieces dry with a paper towel to ensure a great sear. Generously season each bite with salt and black pepper. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt one tablespoon of butter and add the steak. Sear for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they develop a beautiful browned crust and reach your preferred doneness. Once cooked, remove the steak from the skillet and set aside to rest briefly.
Step 3: Build the Garlic Cream Sauce
Lower the heat to medium and add the remaining tablespoon of butter to the skillet. Toss in the minced garlic and cook just until fragrant, about one minute—don’t let it burn! Pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously to combine flavors. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes until it thickens slightly, turning into that irresistibly creamy base.
Step 4: Add Parmesan and Combine Everything
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, watching it melt and meld into the sauce to create a smooth, velvety texture. Return both the cooked tortellini and steak to the skillet. Gently toss everything together, ensuring the tortellini and steak bites are thoroughly coated with the rich garlic cream sauce.
Step 5: Finish with Fresh Herbs and Spice
Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the skillet to add a burst of freshness and vibrant color. If you like a touch of heat, scatter a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes on top. Taste the dish and adjust seasoning with additional salt or black pepper as needed before serving.
How to Serve Garlic Steak & Cheese-Filled Tortellini Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Add an extra sprinkle of Parmesan right before serving for an irresistible finish. A few more fresh parsley leaves can brighten the plate visually and flavor-wise, while a drizzle of high-quality olive oil can add shine and richness.
Side Dishes
This skillet dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad to balance the richness, or garlic bread to soak up every last bit of that heavenly sauce. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli also complement the meal by adding a smoky depth and texture contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve straight from the skillet for a rustic, cozy vibe that’s perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. For something a bit more elegant, plate the tortellini and steak individually, then drizzle with the sauce and garnish. Turning this recipe into individual bowls with a sprinkle of Parmesan and parsley makes for a stunning presentation that’s sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover Garlic Steak & Cheese-Filled Tortellini Skillet Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keeping it well sealed helps maintain the creamy sauce’s texture and prevents the steak from drying out.
Freezing
This dish freezes best without the fresh parsley garnish. Cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container, and it will keep for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results to preserve the tender steak and creamy sauce.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the sauce from sticking or separating. Adding a splash of cream or milk during reheating can help restore the sauce’s original creaminess. Microwaving is also an option but do so in short bursts to avoid overheating the steak.
FAQs
Can I use frozen tortellini for this Garlic Steak & Cheese-Filled Tortellini Skillet Recipe?
Absolutely! Just cook it according to the package instructions before adding to the skillet. Fresh or refrigerated tortellini is preferred for texture, but frozen works perfectly fine in a pinch.
What cut of steak is best for this recipe?
Sirloin or ribeye works wonderfully because they are tender and flavorful, but feel free to use any steak cut you enjoy that cooks relatively quickly and can be cut into bite-sized pieces.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
While this recipe is designed with steak, you can swap the meat for sautéed mushrooms or your favorite plant-based protein to keep that hearty feel without the meat.
Is the crushed red pepper flakes optional?
Yes! If you prefer your dish without any heat, simply leave out the red pepper flakes. The recipe is delicious even without that spicy kick.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
Simmering the sauce a bit longer allows it to reduce and thicken naturally. Adding a little more Parmesan cheese can also help thicken and enrich the sauce.
Final Thoughts
Once you try the Garlic Steak & Cheese-Filled Tortellini Skillet Recipe, it will quickly become one of those go-to dishes you love making and sharing. It’s a perfect blend of comforting and sophisticated flavors, ready in under 30 minutes and sure to wow anyone at your table. Trust me, this recipe is the ultimate weeknight showstopper you didn’t know you needed!
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Garlic Steak & Cheese-Filled Tortellini Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Garlic Steak & Cheese-Filled Tortellini Skillet is a rich and comforting dish featuring tender pieces of steak and cheesy tortellini tossed in a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. Ready in just 25 minutes, it makes a perfect weeknight dinner that’s both indulgent and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound cheese-filled tortellini (fresh or refrigerated)
- 1 pound sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook Tortellini: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the cheese-filled tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Prepare Steak: Pat the steak pieces dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and black pepper to enhance flavor and create a good sear.
- Sear Steak: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add steak pieces in a single layer and sear for 2-3 minutes per side until browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: Reduce heat to medium and add the remaining tablespoon of butter to the skillet. Add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, stirring frequently, until fragrant but not browned.
- Create Sauce: Pour in heavy cream while stirring constantly. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly and becomes creamy.
- Add Cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and luscious.
- Combine All: Return the cooked tortellini and steak bites to the skillet. Toss gently to coat everything evenly with the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce.
- Garnish and Season: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley and crushed red pepper flakes if desired. Taste the dish and adjust salt and black pepper seasoning as needed.
- Serve: Serve the flavorful tortellini and steak hot directly from the skillet for a comforting, satisfying meal.
Notes
- Use fresh or refrigerated tortellini for best texture and flavor.
- Choose sirloin for a leaner cut or ribeye for a richer, more marbled taste.
- Adjust the crushed red pepper flakes to your preferred level of heat or omit for a milder dish.
- Heavy cream is key for a rich, silky sauce; substitute with half-and-half for a lighter option, though the sauce may be less thick.
- Leftover steak can be cooked ahead and reheated gently in the sauce if desired.
- Garnishing with fresh parsley adds brightness and color to the dish.
