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+ servings

Cracked Garlic Steak Tortellini

A weeknight-friendly, slightly decadent pasta dish featuring silky cheese tortellini paired with a bold, crackled garlic steak in a creamy sauce.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 650

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 20 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 lb steak (sirloin or ribeye) trimmed and at room temperature
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste black pepper
  • light dusting garlic powder
  • to taste smoked paprika for a warm, subtle smokiness
For Cooking
  • 2 tbsp olive oil for searing
  • 4 tbsp butter
  • 5 cloves garlic, minced (or more if you love garlic)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 3/4 cup whole milk for a slightly lighter cream
  • 1 1/4 cups Parmesan, shredded or freshly grated fresh gives the best melt and flavor
  • to taste parsley, chopped optional, for brightness
  • to taste red pepper flakes optional, for heat
  • to taste cracked black pepper optional garnish

Method
 

Cooking
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the tortellini according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Pat the steak dry. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Press the seasoning in.
  3. Heat a skillet over medium-high. Add the olive oil. Sear the steak for 4–5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer for desired doneness. Transfer to a cutting board and let rest for 5–8 minutes.
  4. Slice the steak thinly against the grain and reserve.
  5. In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the butter. When it melts, add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30–45 seconds. Do not brown the garlic.
  6. Pour in the heavy cream and milk. Stir and bring to a gentle simmer. Let it reduce slightly for 2–3 minutes.
  7. Whisk in the Parmesan in small handfuls until the sauce turns smooth and glossy. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. If it’s too thick, stir in a splash of milk or reserved pasta water.
  8. Add the cooked tortellini and sliced steak to the skillet. Toss gently to coat everything in the cream sauce and warm the steak.
  9. Serve immediately, garnished with parsley, red pepper flakes, and extra cracked black pepper if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1Calories: 650kcalCarbohydrates: 70gProtein: 35gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gSodium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4g

Notes

For a lighter version, swap heavy cream for half-and-half, but expect a thinner sauce. If gluten-free, use GF tortellini. Serve hot in shallow bowls with a crisp green salad or crusty bread.

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