Name: Garlic Steak & Cheese-Filled Tortellini Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 pound sirloin steak; 10 ounces cheese-filled tortellini; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional); ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

If you’re on the hunt for a quick weeknight dinner that feels like a five-star indulgence, look no further than this Garlic Steak & Cheese-Filled Tortellini Skillet. This dish beautifully marries juicy, seared sirloin steak with tender, cheese-stuffed tortellini, all enveloped in a velvety garlic-Parmesan cream sauce. It’s rich, comforting, and fast—perfect for those busy evenings when you crave something homemade yet satisfying. Whether you’re seeking easy dinner recipes, quick skillet meals, or just comforting food, this recipe checks all the boxes.

What makes this dish truly appealing is its simplicity and complete flavor profile. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a meal that doesn’t skimp on taste or indulgence. The seared steak brings a delightful depth to the dish, while the tortellini provides a delightful texture and cheesy goodness. The creamy garlic sauce ties everything together, creating a comforting dish that will please even the pickiest eaters. Plus, it’s a one-pan meal, which means less cleanup and more quality time with family or friends.

In just under 30 minutes, you can have a gourmet meal on the table, making this Garlic Steak & Cheese-Filled Tortellini Skillet an ideal choice for weeknight dinners, date nights, or cozy family meals. Let’s dive into why you will absolutely love making this recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Steak & Cheese-Filled Tortellini Skillet

Quick and Easy: Ready in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weekdays.
One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup with everything cooked in one skillet.
Rich and Comforting: Creamy garlic sauce combined with hearty steak and cheesy tortellini.
Kid-Friendly: A dish that children and adults alike will enjoy.
Customizable: You can easily adjust ingredients or spice levels to suit your taste.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you dive into cooking this amazing Garlic Steak & Cheese-Filled Tortellini Skillet, it’s essential to set up your kitchen for success. Start by gathering all your ingredients to ensure you have everything needed at hand. This dish is quick, and having your items prepped will save you time. Make sure to cut the sirloin steak into bite-sized cubes and mince your garlic ahead of time, as this will streamline the cooking process.

In terms of tools, you’ll need a large skillet—preferably a cast-iron or non-stick pan works best for searing the steak evenly. Have a wooden spoon or spatula handy for stirring the sauce and mixing in the tortellini later. By preparing your workspace effectively, you allow for smoother cooking, thereby creating a more delightful experience.

Ingredients

1 pound sirloin steak
10 ounces cheese-filled tortellini
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons butter
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Steak

Start by cutting your sirloin steak into bite-sized cubes. This not only allows for quick cooking but also makes it easier to eat in the final dish. Make sure to season the cubed steak generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning; this step is crucial to infuse flavor into the meat, enhancing the overall dish’s taste.

Step 2: Sear the Steak

Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter has melted and the skillet is hot, add the seasoned steak in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Sear the steak for about 2-3 minutes on each side until it forms a nice golden brown crust. After searing, transfer the steak to a plate and keep it warm as you move on to the next steps.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

In the same skillet, if necessary, add a little more butter (about a teaspoon) and reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30-45 seconds, stirring consistently until it’s fragrant—be careful not to let it burn, as garlic can turn bitter quickly!

Step 4: Create the Cream Sauce

Now, pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer gently for about 2-3 minutes. You want it to warm through and start thickening slightly. After simmering, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes, and an additional sprinkle of Italian seasoning. Continue to simmer until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency—it should coat the back of a spoon nicely.

Step 5: Cook the Tortellini

While the sauce is cooking, prepare your tortellini according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the tortellini well and add it directly into the skillet with the cream sauce. This allows the pasta to absorb all the delicious flavors of the sauce.

Step 6: Combine and Serve

Return the seared steak and any accumulated juices from the plate back to the skillet. Toss everything together gently until the tortellini, steak, and sauce are thoroughly combined and heated through. Be gentle to avoid breaking the tortellini. Finally, garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving to add a pop of color and freshness!

Variations

Protein: Substitute sirloin steak with chicken breast or shrimp for a different protein option.
Vegetables: Consider adding sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.
Spices: Enhance the dish with fresh basil or oregano for a fresh herb twist.

Cooking Notes

For best results, ensure your pan is hot enough before adding the steak to achieve a good sear.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer a bit longer after adding the cheese.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
Pair with garlic bread to scoop up that delicious sauce.

Tips

Want a spicier kick? Increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes.
For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the butter slightly.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 620 per serving
Protein: About 30 grams
Sodium: Roughly 800 mg

FAQs

Can I make the dish ahead of time?

While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the components in advance. Cook the steak, and prepare the sauce and tortellini, then combine when ready to serve!

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Can I substitute the tortellini?

Yes! You can use any type of pasta; just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Is this recipe suitable for freezing?

While the sauce may separate upon freezing, it can be frozen. Reheat slowly and stir to recombine when you’re ready to enjoy it.

Conclusion

The Garlic Steak & Cheese-Filled Tortellini Skillet is a reminder that dinner doesn’t have to be complicated to be delicious. In just 25 minutes, you can prepare a meal that’s rich in flavor and satisfying in every bite. This recipe invites you to be creative—it’s simple to customize with different proteins or vegetables according to your taste! We encourage you to experiment, share your results, and let us know how your version turned out. Happy cooking!