Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThere’s something undeniably heartwarming about a skillet dinner that comes together in just 30 minutes. As the aroma of sizzling steak and garlic dances in the air, you’ll find this Creamy Garlic Steak Tortellini Skillet Dinner is the perfect remedy for those busy weeknights. With tender, seared steak bites nestled among cheesy tortellini, all enveloped in a rich garlic cream sauce, it’s a comforting dish that elegantly marries steakhouse luxury with cozy home-cooking. Not only does it impress with its gourmet flair, but it’s also designed to be quick and straightforward—ideal for anyone tired of fast food and craving a satisfying homemade meal. Ready to transform your dinner routine? Let’s dive into the delicious simplicity of this skillet delight! Why is this skillet dinner a must-try? Convenience: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you need a hearty meal fast. Flavor Bomb: With rich garlic cream sauce and tender steak, each bite is a flavor explosion that captures the essence of fine dining. Versatility: Feel free to substitute proteins or add fresh veggies like spinach for extra nutrition and customization. Cheesy Goodness: The cheese tortellini adds a comforting creaminess, elevating this dish to a level that’s sure to impress family and friends. Crowd Pleaser: Perfect for date nights or family dinners, this creamy skillet dinner is bound to become a favorite in your household. Quick Cleanup: Being a one-skillet meal means you’re not left with a huge pile of dishes—just enjoy your delicious creation! Cracked Garlic Steak Tortellini Ingredients • Get ready to indulge in a creamy, hearty meal with these simple yet delightful ingredients! For the Tortellini • 20 oz cheese tortellini – Fresh or refrigerated varieties will give the best texture and taste. For the Steak • 1 lb steak (sirloin or ribeye) – Sirloin offers a leaner bite while ribeye brings melt-in-your-mouth tenderness. For the Seasoning • Salt, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika – Adjust these to your taste for a flavor-packed punch. For the Creamy Sauce • 2 tbsp olive oil – Essential for searing the steak and adding depth of flavor. • 4 tbsp butter – Creates a luscious, creamy sauce base. • 5 cloves garlic, minced – Adds aromatic richness to the dish. • 1 cup heavy cream – The star of the sauce, contributing a velvety smoothness. • 3/4 cup whole milk – Balances the richness of the cream without overwhelming it. • 1 1/4 cups parmesan, shredded or freshly grated – Brings a savory flavor and helps thicken the sauce. For Garnishing • Parsley, chopped (optional) – Brightens the dish and adds a fresh touch. • Red pepper flakes (optional) – For those who enjoy a spicy kick in their creamy skillet dinner. • Cracked black pepper (optional garnish) – Finishing touch that elevates the flavor profile. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cracked Garlic Steak Tortellini in Creamhouse Sauce Step 1: Cook the Tortellini Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add 20 oz of cheese tortellini and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 3-5 minutes, until al dente. Once cooked, drain the tortellini and set it aside, allowing it to rest while you prepare the Cracked Garlic Steak. Step 2: Season and Sear the Steak In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. While the oil warms, season 1 lb of steak (sirloin or ribeye) generously with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Once the oil is shimmering, add the steak bites to the skillet, searing them for about 3-5 minutes until browned on all sides. Remove the steak and set it aside to rest. Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Cream Sauce In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and melt 4 tablespoons of butter. Add 5 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant and golden. Stir frequently to avoid burning the garlic, creating a beautiful base for your creamy sauce. Step 4: Create the Cream Sauce Next, pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and 3/4 cup of whole milk, stirring to combine. Let the mixture simmer for 3-4 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly and thicken. Keep an eye on the sauce, ensuring it doesn’t boil over or stick to the skillet, resulting in a rich, creamy base. Step 5: Incorporate the Cheese Once the sauce has thickened, gradually add 1 1/4 cups of shredded parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until melted and smooth. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if desired. This cheesy concoction will envelop the tortellini and steak beautifully, creating an irresistible flavor. Step 6: Combine the Ingredients Return the seared steak and cooked tortellini to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Gently toss everything together for about 2 minutes to ensure each piece is coated with the decadent Cracked Garlic Steak Tortellini in Creamhouse Sauce. The combination should look indulgent and inviting, making your mouth water. Step 7: Garnish and Serve To finish, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley, cracked black pepper, and red pepper flakes for an added kick, if desired. Serve your creamy skillet dinner immediately, savoring the comforting flavors and inviting aroma. Enjoy this delightful dish with loved ones, showcasing the essence of a homemade meal! Make Ahead Options These Creamy Garlic Steak Tortellini are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the tortellini, sear the steak, and make the garlic cream sauce up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cook the tortellini according to package instructions and store it in an airtight container. Likewise, sear the steak, let it cool, and refrigerate it separately. The garlic cream sauce can also be made ahead; just ensure it cools before refrigerating to maintain its creamy consistency. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce gently, add the steak and tortellini, and toss until warmed through for a delightful, stress-free meal that’s just as delicious! Variations & Substitutions for Cracked Garlic Steak Tortellini Feel free to make this creamy skillet dinner your own with these delightful twists and swaps! Chicken Swap: Replace the steak with cubed chicken breast for a lighter option that’s just as satisfying. Shrimp Twist: For seafood lovers, toss in shrimp instead of steak, giving the dish a lovely coastal flair that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce. Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free cheese tortellini to make this dish friendly for those with dietary restrictions while keeping flavors intact. Veggie Boost: Add fresh spinach or kale as you make the sauce for a vibrant color and a nutrient boost that complements the creamy flavors beautifully. Heat Adjustment: If you enjoy a bit more spice, increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to really elevate those flavors. Alternative Cheese: Swap parmesan for pecorino Romano for a sharper, saltier taste that adds a unique character to the sauce. Richness Factor: For a more decadent experience, substitute half of the heavy cream with mascarpone cheese to create an ultra-creamy sauce that feels indulgent. Herbal Essence: Fresh basil or thyme can be added at the end to give a fragrant lift to the dish, making it not only taste great but also smell fantastic. These variations allow you to craft a dish that fits your personal taste preferences while keeping the essence of this delicious recipe alive. If you’re looking for more inspiration, consider pairing your creamy skillet dinner with a garden salad or some crispy garlic bread for a complete meal experience! Storage Tips for Cracked Garlic Steak Tortellini Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container and keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the creamy skillet dinner in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Reheating: Gently reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and to achieve an even heat. Serving Suggestion: Enjoy this scrumptious Cracked Garlic Steak Tortellini straight from the skillet for a comforting meal all week long! What to Serve with Creamy Garlic Steak Tortellini Skillet Dinner Transform your weeknight dinner into a delightful experience with enticing pairings that complement this creamy, garlic-infused dish. Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread adds the perfect crunch and is ideal for soaking up the rich cream sauce. Mixed Green Salad: A light garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the tortellini, adding freshness to your meal. Roasted Vegetables: A side of roasted seasonal veggies provides a wonderful contrast in texture while enhancing the meal’s nutritional profile. Sautéed Spinach: Quickly sautéed spinach with garlic offers a vibrant green side that complements the creamy garlic flavors beautifully. Parmesan Crisps: These crunchy delights add a cheesy, salty bite and are gorgeous as a garnish or on their own for a fun appetizer. Red Wine: A glass of smooth red wine, like a Cabernet Sauvignon, elevates your dining experience, harmonizing with the savory notes of the steak. Chocolate Mousse: Finish off with a rich chocolate mousse for dessert, creating a lovely sweet contrast to the savory main course. Lemon Sorbet: For a lighter end, lemon sorbet offers a refreshing palate cleanser that pairs well with the creamy, hearty nature of the dinner. Expert Tips for Creamy Skillet Dinner Steak Choice: Use sirloin for a leaner bite or ribeye for extra tenderness. This selection greatly influences the flavor of your Cracked Garlic Steak Tortellini. Simmer Time: Allowing the cream sauce to simmer for a bit longer will result in a thicker, richer consistency. Don’t rush this step! Garlic Balance: Adjust the amount of garlic according to your taste preference. If you love garlic, add an extra clove, but be cautious not to overpower the dish. Heat Level: Add red pepper flakes sparingly. They’re optional, but if you prefer a milder dish, skip them entirely for a smoother flavor profile. Store Properly: If enjoying leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The dish is best when fresh but can last up to 3 days. Quick Cleanup: Keep your skillet clean by deglazing it with a splash of wine while making the sauce to soak up those delicious browned bits—yum! Cracked Garlic Steak Tortellini Recipe FAQs What type of steak should I use for this recipe? Absolutely! You can choose between sirloin for a leaner bite or ribeye for a richer, more tender experience. Both types will deliver delicious flavors, but ribeye has that extra melt-in-your-mouth quality that many steak lovers appreciate. How do I store leftovers? Very easy! Simply place any leftover Cracked Garlic Steak Tortellini in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it a great option for meal prep or quick lunches. Can I freeze this dish? Yes, you can freeze the creamy skillet dinner! To do this, let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and gently reheat on the stove, adding a splash of milk to restore the creaminess. How can I reheat the Cracked Garlic Steak Tortellini without losing its creaminess? To reheat, place the dish in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of milk or cream to help bring back that delightful, creamy texture, and stir frequently. This will ensure even warming without the risk of the sauce separating or becoming clumpy. Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe? Very much! For a gluten-free option, simply use gluten-free cheese tortellini. Additionally, if you or anyone you’re serving has dairy allergies, you can substitute heavy cream and milk with an alternative like coconut cream and almond milk, though this will slightly alter the flavor. What if I want to add more vegetables? I often recommend tossing in a handful of fresh spinach or kale towards the end of cooking your creamy sauce. These greens not only enhance the nutritional value but also add a vibrant color to the dish. Just cook until wilted before mixing in the tortellini and steak. Cracked Garlic Steak Tortellini in Creamhouse Sauce Bliss This Cracked Garlic Steak Tortellini in Creamhouse Sauce is a quick and comforting skillet dinner perfect for busy weeknights. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: ItalianCalories: 650 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Tortellini20 oz cheese tortellini Fresh or refrigerated varieties yield the best texture and taste.For the Steak1 lb steak (sirloin or ribeye) Sirloin is leaner; ribeye is more tender.For the Seasoningsaltblack peppergarlic powdersmoked paprikaFor the Creamy Sauce2 tbsp olive oil Essential for searing the steak.4 tbsp butter Creates a creamy sauce base.5 cloves garlic, minced Adds aromatic richness.1 cup heavy cream Contributes a velvety smoothness.3/4 cup whole milk Balances the richness.1 1/4 cups parmesan, shredded or freshly grated Brings a savory flavor.For Garnishingparsley, chopped (optional) Brightens the dish.red pepper flakes (optional) For a spicy kick.cracked black pepper (optional garnish) Elevates the flavor. Equipment Large potLarge skilletcolander Method Step-by-Step InstructionsCook the Tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add cheese tortellini and cook according to package instructions, about 3-5 minutes, until al dente. Drain and set aside.Season and Sear the Steak: In a large skillet, heat olive oil. Season steak with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Sear for about 3-5 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside.Prepare the Garlic Cream Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.Create the Cream Sauce: Add heavy cream and whole milk, stirring to combine. Let simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.Incorporate the Cheese: Gradually whisk in parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. Season if desired.Combine the Ingredients: Return seared steak and tortellini to the skillet and toss to combine for about 2 minutes.Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with parsley, cracked black pepper, and red pepper flakes, if desired. Serve immediately. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 650kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 34gFat: 36gSaturated Fat: 20gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 110mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 400mgIron: 3mg NotesStore leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat over low heat with a splash of milk to restore creaminess. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
