When I think of comfort food, I’m immediately transported back to Sunday dinners at my best friend Sarah’s house. Her mom, Mrs. Rossi, always had something amazing simmering on the stove, and it usually involved pasta. One dish I always looked forward to was her creamy, cheesy tortellini.
It was simple, yet incredibly satisfying, and I always felt so loved and cared for whenever I ate it. Over the years, I’ve tried to recreate that same feeling in my own kitchen, and this Cracked Garlic Steak Tortellini in Creamhouse Sauce is my take on that childhood favorite. It’s the perfect weeknight meal that brings warmth and smiles to the table.
This recipe for steak tortellini cream sauce is a total game-changer; it elevates simple cheese tortellini with savory steak and a luscious sauce. I can’t wait for you to experience the magic of this dish!
Why you’ll love this Cracked Garlic Steak Tortellini in Creamhouse Sauce with Steak Tortellini Cream Sauce
- It’s incredibly easy to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner when you’re short on time.
- The combination of tender steak, cheesy tortellini, and a decadent cream sauce is simply irresistible.
- The cracked garlic adds a delightful aroma and a subtle kick to the dish. This steak tortellini cream sauce will be a new favorite!
- It’s versatile! You can easily add your favorite vegetables to make it a complete and balanced meal.
- It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, even the pickiest eaters will love this comforting pasta dish.
- Leftovers are just as delicious, making it perfect for meal prepping.
Ingredients
- 1 pound cheese tortellini
- 1 pound sirloin steak, thinly sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon cracked black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Directions
Step 1
Steak tortellini cream sauce makes every moment feel uplifting. Cook the tortellini according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
Step 2
While the tortellini is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced sirloin steak and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove steak from skillet and set aside.
Step 3
Add butter and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 4
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
Step 5
Stir in the Parmesan cheese, cracked black pepper, and salt. Return the cooked steak to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce.
Step 6
Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet and toss to combine. Heat through for another 1-2 minutes.
Step 7
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Variations, pairings, and serving ideas
Variations
Looking to switch things up? Consider adding some sautéed mushrooms to the cream sauce for an earthy flavor. Spinach is another great addition; simply wilt it in the sauce during the last few minutes of cooking. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the cracked black pepper.
You can also experiment with different types of cheese. Try using a blend of Parmesan and Romano for a sharper flavor. A dollop of ricotta cheese on top of each serving adds extra creaminess. Don’t be afraid to get creative and customize the recipe to your liking!
Want a lighter version? Use low-fat cream cheese instead of heavy cream. You can also substitute the sirloin steak with chicken or turkey for a different protein option.
Pairings
This Cracked Garlic Steak Tortellini in Creamhouse Sauce pairs perfectly with a simple side salad. A mix of fresh greens, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta. Garlic bread is another great accompaniment, perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
Consider serving it with roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus. The slight bitterness of the vegetables balances the richness of the dish. For a complete meal, add a side of crusty bread and a glass of sparkling water.
If you’re looking for a starter, a Caprese salad with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil would be a delicious choice. For dessert, a light fruit salad or some Boston Cream Pie Cookies from Cook Reel would be the perfect ending to the meal. The creamy filling complements the tortellini perfectly.
Serving ideas
For a beautiful presentation, serve the pasta in individual bowls and garnish with a generous sprinkle of fresh parsley. A swirl of extra virgin olive oil adds a touch of elegance. You can also add a few shavings of Parmesan cheese on top.
For a more casual setting, serve the tortellini family-style in a large serving dish. Place the dish in the center of the table and let everyone help themselves. Don’t forget to have plenty of napkins on hand!
To elevate the presentation further, consider serving the pasta in hollowed-out bread bowls. This adds a rustic touch and eliminates the need for extra bread on the side. For a delicious side dish, try Fork Haven’s recipe for Orange Creamsicle Fluff Salad, offering a delightful contrast in flavors and textures; you can find it at Fork Haven.
Storage and make-ahead tips
Storage
Store leftover Cracked Garlic Steak Tortellini in Creamhouse Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if needed to loosen the sauce.
You can also freeze the leftovers, although the texture of the tortellini may change slightly. To freeze, spread the pasta in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 2 hours, or until solid. Then, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
It is best to store the tortellini and sauce separately to prevent the pasta from becoming too soggy. This will help maintain the quality and flavor of the dish when you reheat it.
Make-ahead
To save time on busy weeknights, you can prepare the cream sauce ahead of time. Simply follow the recipe up to the point of adding the tortellini and steak. Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
You can also cook the tortellini ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Toss it with a little olive oil to prevent it from sticking together. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce, add the steak and tortellini, and toss to combine.
Another great make-ahead tip is to slice the steak the day before. This will save you valuable time when you’re ready to cook. Store the sliced steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Common mistakes when making Cracked Garlic Steak Tortellini in Creamhouse Sauce
- Burning the garlic: Be careful not to burn the garlic when sautéing it in the butter. Burnt garlic will have a bitter taste that can ruin the entire dish. Cook it over low heat and watch it carefully.
- Overcooking the steak: Overcooked steak will be tough and dry. Cook it just until it’s browned on the outside and still slightly pink on the inside. It will continue to cook in the sauce.
- Not thickening the sauce enough: The cream sauce should be thick enough to coat the tortellini. If it’s too thin, continue to simmer it until it reaches the desired consistency.
- Adding too much salt: Be careful not to over-salt the dish. Taste the sauce before adding any salt and adjust as needed. Remember that Parmesan cheese is already salty.
- Overcooking the tortellini: Overcooked tortellini will be mushy. Cook it according to package directions and don’t overcook it. Drain it immediately and set it aside.
Final notes
This Cracked Garlic Steak Tortellini in Creamhouse Sauce is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to create a comforting and memorable meal. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations and make it your own. The key is to have fun and enjoy the process!
Remember, cooking is an act of love. So gather your ingredients, put on some music, and let the aroma of garlic and steak fill your kitchen. I hope this dish brings as much joy to your table as it has to mine.
I encourage you to try this recipe and share it with your loved ones. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Loved this Cracked Garlic Steak Tortellini in Creamhouse Sauce? Try these next
- Boston Cream Pie Cookies
- Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf Recipe
- Raspberry Layer Cake Recipe
- Orange Creamsicle Fluff Salad
- Creamy Jack Cheese Chicken
Cracked Garlic Steak Tortellini in Creamhouse Sauce
Tender steak and cheese tortellini bathed in a luscious cracked garlic cream sauce. This comforting dish is surprisingly easy to make and guaranteed to impress!
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 pound cheese tortellini
- 1 pound sirloin steak, thinly sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon cracked black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the tortellini according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- While the tortellini is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced sirloin steak and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove steak from skillet and set aside.
- Add butter and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese, cracked black pepper, and salt. Return the cooked steak to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce.
- Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet and toss to combine. Heat through for another 1-2 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
For a richer sauce, use half-and-half instead of chicken broth. You can also add other vegetables like mushrooms or spinach. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 150mg