Creamy Garlic Steak Tortellini Skillet Dinner – A Rich, One-Pan Comfort Meal
Some dinners feel special the moment they hit the table, and this Creamy Garlic Steak Tortellini Skillet Dinner is exactly that kind of meal. It’s rich, indulgent, and deeply satisfying, yet surprisingly easy to pull together in one skillet. Tender steak, pillowy cheese-filled tortellini, and a silky garlic cream sauce come together in a way that feels restaurant-worthy but still completely weeknight-friendly.
This dish is built for those evenings when you want something cozy and comforting without spending hours in the kitchen. The steak is quickly seared to lock in flavor, the tortellini cooks until perfectly tender, and the garlic cream sauce ties everything together with buttery richness and savory depth. Every bite feels luxurious, warm, and incredibly comforting.
What makes this skillet dinner so appealing is how balanced it feels. The richness of the cream is offset by garlic and parmesan, the steak adds hearty protein, and a handful of spinach brings freshness and color. It’s indulgent without being overwhelming, making it ideal for both casual family dinners and special occasions at home.
This recipe is also incredibly versatile. You can adjust the cut of steak, add vegetables, or tweak the seasoning to make it your own. No matter how you serve it, it’s the kind of dish that disappears quickly—and usually earns requests for seconds.
If you love creamy pasta dishes and bold, savory flavors, this Creamy Garlic Steak Tortellini Skillet Dinner deserves a permanent spot in your recipe rotation.
Ingredients:
- Sirloin or ribeye steak, sliced
- Cheese tortellini (fresh or refrigerated)
- Butter
- Olive oil
- Garlic cloves, minced
- Heavy cream
- Beef broth
- Parmesan cheese, grated
- Fresh spinach
- Sea salt
- Black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions:
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the tortellini according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Season the steak slices generously with salt and black pepper.
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the steak to the skillet in a single layer and sear for 2–3 minutes per side until browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add minced garlic. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in beef broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Stir in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add grated parmesan cheese and stir until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Add the cooked tortellini and fresh spinach, stirring until the spinach wilts.
- Return the steak to the skillet and toss everything together until warmed through.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Creamy Garlic Steak Tortellini Skillet Dinner
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook tortellini according to package directions and set aside.
- Season and sear steak in butter and olive oil until browned; remove.
- Sauté garlic, deglaze with broth, and stir in cream.
- Add parmesan and simmer until slightly thickened.
- Add tortellini, spinach, and steak; toss and serve.
Notes
Tips & Tricks
- Don’t overcook the steak—remove it early and let it finish in the sauce.
- Use freshly grated parmesan for the smoothest sauce.
- Keep the sauce at a gentle simmer to avoid splitting.
- Taste before serving and adjust seasoning as needed.
Variations
- Add mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
- Swap steak for chicken or shrimp.
- Use half-and-half for a lighter sauce.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this skillet dinner on its own or with a crisp green salad or garlic bread. It pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or steamed broccoli for a complete meal.
Storage Information
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.
FAQ
- What cut of steak works best?
Sirloin or ribeye are ideal for tenderness and flavor. - Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes—cook according to package directions before adding. - Is this freezer-friendly?
Cream sauces are best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be refrigerated.
History / Fun Facts
Skillet pasta dinners became popular for their convenience and minimal cleanup. Combining steak with creamy pasta is a modern comfort-food twist inspired by steakhouse flavors brought into home kitchens.
