Creamy Garlic Steak Tortellini Skillet Dinner

Author: Rebeca

When it comes to quick yet satisfying meals, this Creamy Garlic Steak Tortellini Skillet Dinner is a standout. Imagine a busy weeknight where you want to serve something hearty and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. This dish combines tender steak, creamy sauce, and cheese-filled tortellini, all cooked in one skillet for minimal cleanup. It’s a recipe that brings comfort and flavor to the table, making it perfect for family dinners or even a cozy date night at home.

Why This Recipe Works

Quick and easy: Ready in just 45 minutes.
One skillet: Minimal cleanup required.
Rich flavors: Creamy sauce with garlic and Italian seasoning.
Versatile: Can be customized with your favorite vegetables.
Hearty and filling: Perfect for satisfying hunger.

Ingredients

8 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
1 lb flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced
2 tbsp olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup beef broth
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup spinach, packed
1 tsp Italian seasoning
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Salt and pepper to taste
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

How to Make Creamy Garlic Steak Tortellini Skillet Dinner

Cook the Tortellini: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the tortellini and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Steak: Season the thinly sliced steak with salt, pepper, and half of the Italian seasoning. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, add the steak and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until browned and cooked to your desired level of doneness. Remove the steak from the skillet and set it aside.
Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Add Liquid Ingredients: Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer.
Combine Everything: Add the cherry tomatoes, spinach, red pepper flakes (if using), and the remaining Italian seasoning. Stir until the spinach wilts down and the tomatoes soften, about 2-3 minutes.

Toss it Together: Add the cooked tortellini and the sautéed steak back into the skillet. Gently toss everything together until well coated in the creamy sauce. Let it simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.
Finish and Serve: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

Expert Tips

For extra flavor, marinate the steak in garlic and herbs for a few hours before cooking.
Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition.
If you like it spicy, increase the amount of red pepper flakes.

Recipe Variations

Swap the steak for grilled chicken or shrimp for a different protein option.
Use whole wheat or gluten-free tortellini for a healthier alternative.
Experiment with different cheeses like feta or mozzarella for varied taste.

Storage, Freezing, Reheating

This dish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, place in a freezer-safe container and store for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of beef broth or cream to loosen the sauce as it may thicken when stored.

5 FAQs

Can I use frozen tortellini? Yes, frozen tortellini works perfectly in this recipe.
What can I substitute for heavy cream? You can use half-and-half or a non-dairy cream alternative, but the sauce may be less rich.
Is this recipe spicy? The red pepper flakes are optional, so you can adjust the heat level to your preference.
Can I make this dish vegetarian? Yes, simply omit the steak and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
How do I know when the steak is done? Use a meat thermometer; medium-rare is 130°F, medium is 140°F, and well-done is 160°F.

Nutrition Facts

Per serving:

Calories: 620
Protein: 38g
Fat: 36g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 800mg

Final Thoughts

The Creamy Garlic Steak Tortellini Skillet Dinner is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a practical dish for any home cook. With its rich flavors and satisfying ingredients, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy this easy yet impressive meal any night of the week!