Garlic Butter Beef Tortellini

This garlic butter beef and spinach tortellini dish is a quick and satisfying meal for busy nights when you want something hearty but not complicated. It brings together rich flavors of beef and buttery garlic with fresh spinach and cheesy tortellini for a balanced and comforting dinner.

I first whipped this up after a long day and found it hit the spot perfectly. Now it is one of those dishes I keep coming back to when time is tight but cravings are big.

Ingredients

• Beef sirloin: sliced assures tender, flavorful bites. Choose fresh, bright red sirloin with minimal marbling for best texture.
• Fresh spinach: chopped adds a vibrant green color and important nutrients pick bunches that are crisp and free of wilting.
• Cheese tortellini: brings melty richness and satisfying chew. Look for a good quality brand where the pasta is firm and the cheese filling is creamy but not runny.
• Garlic: minced is essential for that punch of aromatic flavor that butter alone cannot provide. Fresh garlic cloves yield the best, sharp flavor.
• Butter: half a cup for richness and to help mellow the garlic opt for unsalted so you control seasoning carefully.
• Salt and pepper: for seasoning to balance and enhance the flavors.
• Parmesan cheese: for garnish adds a salty, nutty finish. A wedge that you can grate fresh makes a noticeable difference.

Instructions

Build The Flavor Base:

Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Add minced garlic and sauté gently for about two minutes until fragrant but not browned. This brings sweet garlic notes without bitterness.

Cook The Beef:

Add the sliced beef sirloin to the skillet. Cook over medium high heat turning occasionally until browned all over and cooked through about six to eight minutes. Browning develops deep, savory flavors.

Wilt The Spinach:

Reduce heat to medium and add the chopped spinach. Stir to combine and cook until wilted but still bright green about three to four minutes. This step softens the greens without losing color or nutrients.

Prepare The Tortellini:

While the spinach wilts, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to package instructions, usually around four minutes until tender but firm to the bite. Drain well.

Combine And Season:

Add the drained tortellini to the beef and spinach mixture. Toss everything gently to combine and coat with the garlic butter. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve With Parmesan:

Plate the tortellini mixture immediately and sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan generously on top for a rich, nutty finish that enhances the savory notes of the dish.

One of my favorite things about this dish is the way the garlic butter elevates simple ingredients into something special. It reminds me of cooking for family when my kitchen was the heart of a home full of good food and laughter. The fresh Parmesan at the end always feels like a little celebration for a job well done.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat adding a splash of water if needed to keep the tortellini moist.

Ingredient Swaps

Swap beef sirloin for ground beef or Italian sausage for a different texture but similar rich flavor. Use kale or Swiss chard instead of spinach for a heartier green. Cheese ravioli works well in place of tortellini if you want to try a variation.

Serving Ideas

Serve this with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness. Crusty bread is also great to soak up any buttery sauce left on the plate. A glass of medium-bodied red wine pairs nicely with the beef.

This garlic butter beef and spinach tortellini is a simple yet satisfying dish that brings comfort and nutrition together effortlessly.

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ What is the best way to cook the beef sirloin for this dish?

Sauté the beef sirloin slices in melted butter over medium-high heat until they develop a nice brown crust, which enhances flavor and tenderness.

→ How can I ensure the spinach is cooked properly?

Add the chopped spinach after browning the beef and cook just until it wilts to retain its color and nutrients without becoming mushy.

→ What type of tortellini works best here?

Cheese-filled tortellini pairs perfectly with the savory garlic butter and beef, but fresh or frozen varieties can be used depending on convenience.

→ How is the garlic prepared to maximize flavor?

Minced garlic is gently sautéed in butter before adding other ingredients, releasing its aroma without burning for a rich, mellow taste.

→ Can I substitute Parmesan with another cheese?

Yes, alternatives like Pecorino Romano or Asiago can add a sharp, salty finish while complementing the dish’s flavors nicely.