As the aroma of garlic wafts through the kitchen, my thoughts drift to my favorite comfort food: the Garlic Steak & Cheese-Filled Tortellini Skillet. It’s one of those meals that transforms an ordinary night into an indulgent dining experience—all in just one pan! With juicy, perfectly seared steak mingling with creamy, cheese-stuffed tortellini, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or craving a cozy weeknight dinner, this creamy garlic pasta delivers maximum flavor with minimal hassle. Ready to turn your kitchen into a haven of deliciousness? Let’s dive into this unforgettable recipe!
Why is This Recipe a Must-Try?
Simplicity at Its Finest: This one-pan wonder means less mess and quick clean-ups, leaving you more time to enjoy your meal.
Indulgent Flavors: With a rich garlic parmesan cream sauce coating juicy steak and tender tortellini, every bite bursts with decadent taste that’s bound to impress.
Versatile Options: Easily switch up proteins or pasta types; use shrimp or grilled chicken for a delightful twist, or try different tortellini fillings.
Comforting & Satisfying: Say goodbye to bland fast food! This delicious skillet meal will warm your heart and fill your belly, making it perfect for any night in.
Time-Saving Dinner: Quick to whip up, it’s a fantastic option for busy weeknights where you crave something fancy but want to keep it simple.
For more exciting skillet meals, check out my Skillet Cheese Buffalo for a spicy twist or One Pot Skillet for a seafood delight!
Garlic Steak & Cheese-Filled Tortellini Ingredients
• To create this comforting one-pan meal, gather the following ingredients!
For the Steak
- Sirloin or Ribeye Steak (1 lb) – Main protein source providing richness and flavor; substitute with grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for variation.
- Olive Oil (1 tbsp) – Used for coating steak to enhance browning; can replace with vegetable oil for a neutral flavor.
- Garlic Powder (1 tsp) – Adds depth and enhances the garlic flavor; fresh garlic can be used as a substitute, adjusting the amount accordingly.
- Onion Powder (1 tsp) – Contributes a subtle sweetness and depth; can be omitted if unavailable.
- Smoked Paprika (0.5 tsp) – Introduces smokiness; regular paprika can substitute, though it won’t have the same smoky flavor.
- Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning the steak; adjust to taste preferences.
For the Tortellini and Sauce
- Cheese-Filled Tortellini (12 oz) – Main carbohydrate, providing creamy texture; can be interchanged with plain pasta, but the cheese center will be lost.
- Unsalted Butter (2 tbsp) – Adds richness to the sauce; can replace with olive oil for a dairy-free option.
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced) – Fresh aroma and flavor enhancement in the sauce; pre-minced or garlic paste can serve as alternatives, though flavor may vary.
- Heavy Cream (1 cup) – Forms the base of the creamy sauce; for lighter options, use half-and-half, evaporated milk, or plant-based cream alternatives.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese (0.5 cup) – Adds creaminess and flavor; freshly grated is recommended for the best texture.
- Reserved Pasta Water (0.25 cup) – Helps to adjust sauce consistency and adds flavor.
- Italian Seasoning (1 tsp) – Herb mix that complements the dish; substitute with individual herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme if necessary.
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (0.5 tsp) – Provides a touch of heat; adjust to taste or omit if you prefer a milder dish.
- Chopped Parsley (1 tbsp, fresh) – For garnish and a pop of color; can replace with basil or omit if not available.
- Extra Parmesan (Optional) – For garnish and added richness.
With these ingredients at hand, you’re all set to indulge in the mouthwatering magic of this Garlic Steak & Cheese-Filled Tortellini Skillet!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Garlic Steak & Cheese-Filled Tortellini Skillet
Step 1: Cook the Tortellini
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add your 12 oz of cheese-filled tortellini, cooking according to package instructions (usually around 3-5 minutes). When done, reserve ¼ cup of the pasta water before draining and set the tortellini aside while you prepare the rest of the dish.
Step 2: Season the Steak
In a bowl, pat 1 lb of sirloin or ribeye steak cubes dry with paper towels to ensure they sear nicely. Drizzle with 1 tbsp of olive oil and season generously with 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 0.5 tsp smoked paprika, as well as salt and pepper to taste. This mixture will coat the steak evenly, enhancing the richness of the Garlic Steak & Cheese-Filled Tortellini Skillet.
Step 3: Sear the Steak
Heat a heavy-duty cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Carefully add the seasoned steak cubes to the skillet, ensuring they are in a single layer; sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re nicely browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Once seared, remove the steak from the skillet and let it rest on a plate, allowing the juices to redistribute.
Step 4: Sauté the Garlic
Lower the skillet heat to medium and add 2 tbsp of unsalted butter, letting it melt. Once melted, add 4 minced garlic cloves, sautéing for about 30 seconds or until fragrant and golden. This step will infuse the Garlic Steak & Cheese-Filled Tortellini Skillet with a heavenly aroma, creating a flavorful base for the sauce.
Step 5: Create the Cream Sauce
Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream, along with 0.5 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 tsp of Italian seasoning, and 0.5 tsp of crushed red pepper flakes. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer for about 3-5 minutes, stirring consistently until the sauce thickens slightly and becomes creamy, perfectly complementing the steak and tortellini.
Step 6: Combine the Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained tortellini to the skillet, gently stirring to coat each piece with the creamy sauce. If the sauce appears too thick, you can add in the reserved ¼ cup of pasta water to achieve the perfect consistency. This step ensures that each bite of your Garlic Steak & Cheese-Filled Tortellini Skillet is luxuriously smooth.
Step 7: Return the Steak
Finally, return the rested steak cubes and any accumulated juices back to the skillet. Using a gentle folding motion, combine everything to heat through for another minute or two. This final mix will meld the flavors beautifully, ensuring the creamy sauce clings to both the steak and tortellini.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
To finish off your delicious meal, garnish the Garlic Steak & Cheese-Filled Tortellini Skillet with fresh chopped parsley and additional grated Parmesan, if desired. Serve hot, allowing everyone to enjoy this hearty, rich dish that promises comfort and satisfaction with every bite!
Make Ahead Options
These Garlic Steak & Cheese-Filled Tortellini Skillets are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during hectic weekdays! You can season and sear the steak up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate it until you’re ready to cook. Additionally, cook the tortellini and prepare the creamy sauce (minus the cheese) up to 3 days ahead. When it’s time to serve, reheat the sauce gently, stirring in the cheese and reserved pasta water to maintain the creamy texture, then add the tortellini and steak back into the skillet. This makes steak and tortellini easy to enjoy on a busy night, ensuring every bite is just as delicious as when freshly made!
What to Serve with Garlic Steak & Cheese-Filled Tortellini Skillet
Looking to elevate your dining experience? Pair these delightful dishes with the rich, creamy flavors of your skillet masterpiece for an unforgettable meal.
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Garlic Bread: This classic side not only complements the garlic profile but also provides the perfect vessel for savoring every drop of creamy sauce.
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Steamed Broccoli: The vibrant crunch and slight bitterness of fresh broccoli balance the richness of the pasta, adding a nutritious element to your plate.
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Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons create a refreshing contrast to the hearty skillet, rounding off your meal beautifully.
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Roasted Asparagus: With its tender bite and earthy flavor, roasted asparagus offers a delightful textural contrast that pairs perfectly with the creamy tortellini.
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Red Wine: A bold Cabernet Sauvignon enhances the savory notes of the steak while seamlessly complementing the creaminess of the pasta dish.
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Chocolate Mousse: End the night on a sweet note! The luscious texture of rich chocolate mousse is an exquisite finish to this indulgent dinner.
Each of these pairings will elevate your Garlic Steak & Cheese-Filled Tortellini Skillet to new heights, ensuring a dining experience that’s both satisfying and memorable.
How to Store and Freeze Garlic Steak & Cheese-Filled Tortellini Skillet
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of cream to restore creaminess.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Always add a bit of water or cream when reheating to maintain the creamy texture of the sauce in your Garlic Steak & Cheese-Filled Tortellini Skillet.
Room Temperature: It’s best to avoid leaving the dish out for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety, especially with dairy-rich sauces.
Tips for the Best Garlic Steak & Cheese-Filled Tortellini Skillet
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Searing Technique: Use a heavy cast iron skillet to achieve a beautiful brown crust on your steak. Make sure it’s hot enough before adding the meat to avoid steaming.
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Resting the Steak: Let your steak rest after searing to keep it juicy. This is a common mistake; cutting too soon will release all those tasty juices!
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Perfect Cream Sauce: If the sauce thickens too much, gradually stir in the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency; this ensures the creamy sauce perfectly coats the tortellini.
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Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh garlic and freshly grated Parmesan cheese for superior flavor in your Garlic Steak & Cheese-Filled Tortellini Skillet.
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Adjusting Spice Level: Feel free to tweak the red pepper flakes based on your heat tolerance. Remember, you can always add more, but it’s tricky to take it out!
Garlic Steak & Cheese-Filled Tortellini Skillet Variations
Feel free to personalize your dish with these fun and delicious twists!
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Protein Swap: Substitute steak with grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a delightful variation that caters to different tastes. Each option brings a unique texture and flavor profile, making this skillet a versatile delight for any palate.
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Pasta Choice: Use different pasta shapes like rotini, farfalle, or even whole wheat varieties. Just remember that substituting with plain pasta will lose the cheese-filled surprise, but the creamy sauce will still shine!
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Dairy-Free Option: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk or unsweetened almond milk for a creamy, dairy-free version. This alternative still keeps the richness while catering to lactose-free diets—ideal for guests with dietary restrictions.
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Flavor Boost: Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra nutritional goodness and depth of flavor. These vegetables not only enhance the dish visually, but they also provide delightful earthy tones that complement the garlic cream sauce beautifully.
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Cheesy & Nutty: Sprinkle in some nutritional yeast as a dairy-free alternative to Parmesan. It lends a cheesy flavor that fits perfectly into a plant-based lifestyle while maintaining great taste!
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Herbal Delight: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or thyme instead of Italian seasoning. These fresh herbs amplify the dish’s brightness, making it even more aromatic and refreshing.
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Spicier Kick: Increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a zesty kick. If you’re feeling adventurous, toss in some chopped jalapeños for an exciting heat level that will awaken your taste buds!
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Garnish Twist: Rather than parsley, try topping your skillet with toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds. This not only adds a wonderful crunch but also introduces a nutty flavor that will elevate your overall experience.
The joy of cooking lies in making it your own! If you’re searching for more scrumptious recipes, why not check out my Sticky Garlic Chicken or Mediterranean Steak Bowl for some more flavorful options?
Garlic Steak & Cheese-Filled Tortellini Skillet Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right steak for this recipe?
Absolutely! For this Garlic Steak & Cheese-Filled Tortellini Skillet, I recommend using sirloin or ribeye steak as they provide great richness and flavor. Look for steaks that are bright red with some marbling, indicating tenderness and juiciness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, consider steak like flank or tenderloin, though these may require careful cooking to avoid overcooking.
How should I store leftovers?
Very straightforward! Store any leftovers of the Garlic Steak & Cheese-Filled Tortellini Skillet in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy again, gently reheat it on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of cream or water to help restore that delicious creamy texture.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze it! To freeze your Garlic Steak & Cheese-Filled Tortellini Skillet, make sure it’s fully cooled, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It’ll stay fresh for about 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat it gently on the stove, adding a bit of cream or water as needed.
What can I do if my sauce is too thick?
No worries! If you find that your sauce has thickened too much after cooking, just stir in a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. This helps to keep the sauce creamy and ensures every piece of tortellini is well-coated. Remember to do this gradually for the best results!
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Absolutely! If you have dairy allergies or are looking for a dairy-free alternative, you can replace the heavy cream with plant-based cream options. Additionally, if you’re serving this dish to pets, it’s always best to avoid giving them any seasoned meat or pasta, as ingredients like garlic and onion can be harmful to them.
Can I use different types of tortellini or pasta?
Very much so! While cheese-filled tortellini is the star of this dish, feel free to switch it up with other varieties like spinach or mushroom tortellini for a delightful twist. If you’re using plain pasta, just keep in mind that you’ll miss out on that rich cheese center, though the creamy garlic sauce will still provide plenty of flavor!
Creamy Garlic Steak & Cheese-Filled Tortellini Skillet Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook 12 oz of cheese-filled tortellini according to package instructions (3-5 minutes). Reserve ¼ cup pasta water before draining.
- Pat 1 lb of sirloin or ribeye steak cubes dry. Drizzle with 1 tbsp olive oil and season with 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 0.5 tsp smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add seasoned steak cubes and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side. Remove and let rest.
- Lower heat to medium, add 2 tbsp unsalted butter and let it melt. Add 4 minced garlic cloves and sauté for about 30 seconds.
- Stir in 1 cup heavy cream, 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1 tsp Italian seasoning, and 0.5 tsp crushed red pepper flakes. Bring to a simmer for 3-5 minutes.
- Add the drained tortellini to the skillet, stirring to coat with sauce. Add reserved pasta water if needed for consistency.
- Return the rested steak cubes to the skillet, stirring gently to combine and heat through for another minute or two.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and additional grated Parmesan, then serve hot.
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