Garlic Steak & Cheese-Filled Tortellini Skillet
There’s something magical about a dish that combines tender steak, cheesy tortellini, and a garlicky butter sauce all in one skillet. Imagine juicy bites of steak mingling with pillowy pasta pockets oozing with cheese, all wrapped in a creamy, buttery sauce that smells like heaven itself. Trust me, this is one of those recipes that will have everyone hovering around the stove, impatiently waiting for dinner to hit the table. It’s hearty, comforting, and just fancy enough to make a weeknight feel special.
Why You’ll Love Garlic Steak & Cheese-Filled Tortellini Skillet
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. You’ll love it because it’s a one-pan wonder, meaning less cleanup and more time to enjoy. The combination of garlic, steak, and cheesy tortellini hits every flavor note: savory, creamy, and absolutely indulgent. Plus, it’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights when you still want something that feels like a treat.
Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results
Want to nail this dish on your very first try? Here are some insider secrets:
- Use high-quality steak—sirloin or ribeye works beautifully because they stay tender.
- Cook the steak in batches if needed to get that perfect sear without steaming the meat.
- Don’t overcook the tortellini—they only need a few minutes to become perfectly tender.
- Add the garlic at the right time so it becomes fragrant without burning.
- Finish with a sprinkle of Parmesan for that extra hit of salty, cheesy goodness.
Ingredients
1. 1 lb steak (sirloin or ribeye), cut into bite-sized pieces
2. 2 cups cheese-filled tortellini (fresh or frozen)
3. 3 tbsp butter
4. 4 cloves garlic, minced
5. 1/2 cup beef broth
6. 1/2 cup heavy cream
7. 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
8. 1 tbsp olive oil
9. Salt and black pepper to taste
10. Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
1. Season steak pieces generously with salt and black pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak and sear for 2–3 minutes per side until browned but still tender. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, melt butter and add the minced garlic. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Pour in beef broth and heavy cream, stirring to create a creamy sauce. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes.
5. Add the tortellini and cook until they are tender, absorbing the flavors of the sauce (about 5 minutes).
6. Stir in Parmesan cheese, letting it melt into the sauce.
7. Return the steak to the skillet, tossing everything together so the sauce coats each bite.
8. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot.
Texture & Flavor Secrets
The beauty of this recipe lies in its texture—crispy steak edges, soft cheesy pasta, and a creamy, garlicky sauce that clings to everything. The contrast makes each bite a little surprise. Adding Parmesan at the end gives a slight saltiness and thickens the sauce perfectly. Want more depth? A splash of white wine in place of part of the broth adds a gourmet touch.
How to Serve Garlic Steak & Cheese-Filled Tortellini Skillet
This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. For a complete comfort meal, serve with a glass of red wine and let the flavors sing.
Creative Leftover Transformations
Don’t let leftovers go to waste! You can:
- Reheat and serve over a bed of fresh spinach for a steak pasta salad.
- Turn it into a cheesy baked pasta—just add mozzarella on top and broil until bubbly.
- Add broth the next day to create a creamy steak tortellini soup.
Additional Tips
- Use pre-cooked tortellini to cut down on cooking time.
- Add mushrooms or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Double the sauce if you like your pasta extra creamy.
Make It a Showstopper (Presentation Ideas)
Want to wow your guests? Serve the skillet straight to the table with a sprinkle of Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil on top. Garnish with a few parsley leaves or fresh basil for that restaurant-quality look. Using a cast-iron skillet makes the dish look rustic and inviting.
FAQ’s
1. Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes! Just cook them a little longer until they’re fully tender.
2. What’s the best steak to use?
Sirloin or ribeye gives the best flavor and tenderness.
3. Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prep the steak and sauce, but cook the tortellini fresh to avoid sogginess.
4. How do I store leftovers?
Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
5. Can I use chicken instead of steak?
Absolutely—chicken works great if you prefer poultry.
6. Is there a dairy-free version?
Swap the cream with coconut milk and use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
7. Can I make it spicy?
Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce for a kick.
8. What type of Parmesan is best?
Freshly grated Parmesan melts best and has a richer flavor.
9. Can I freeze this dish?
It’s not recommended as the creamy sauce may separate when thawed.
10. What wine pairs with this dish?
A medium-bodied red like Merlot or a crisp white like Chardonnay pairs beautifully.
Conclusion
Garlic Steak & Cheese-Filled Tortellini Skillet is the kind of dish that turns an ordinary night into something special. With its rich, creamy sauce, tender steak, and cheesy pasta, it’s a comfort food dream come true. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself (because you deserve it), this recipe will quickly become a favorite. Give it a try—you’ll thank yourself later!
Print
Garlic Steak & Cheese-Filled Tortellini Skillet
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Lactose
Description
This Garlic Steak & Cheese-Filled Tortellini Skillet combines tender strips of steak with cheesy tortellini in a creamy garlic sauce. It’s a hearty, flavorful one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 1 lb steak (sirloin or ribeye), thinly sliced
- 1 package (20 oz) cheese-filled tortellini
- 3 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Season the steak slices with salt and pepper.
- Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak slices and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until browned. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon olive oil and butter. Sauté minced garlic for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in beef broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Add Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes, and Parmesan cheese. Let simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Stir in the cooked tortellini and return the steak to the skillet. Toss everything together to coat with the sauce.
- Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top, cover, and let it melt for 2-3 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate the steak in garlic and herbs for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Use pre-cooked steak strips to save time on busy nights.
- Add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra texture and nutrients.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 135mg
Keywords: garlic steak tortellini, cheesy skillet pasta, steak pasta recipe, one-pan meals