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Cracked garlic steak tortellini in creamy sauce on white plate garnished with parsley

Cracked Garlic Steak Tortellini in Creamhouse Sauce

Tender steak bites and cheese tortellini in a rich garlic cream sauce, ready in 35-40 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 650

Ingredients
  

  • 20 oz cheese tortellini fresh or refrigerated
  • 1 lb steak sirloin or ribeye, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 tsp salt plus more to taste
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper plus more to taste
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 4 tbsp butter unsalted
  • 5 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 3/4 cup whole milk
  • 1 1/4 cups parmesan cheese shredded or freshly grated
  • fresh parsley chopped, optional for garnish
  • red pepper flakes optional for heat

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large skillet
  • Colander
  • Tongs or large spoon

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Add cheese tortellini and cook 3 to 5 minutes until tender. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/4 cup pasta water.
  2. Cut steak into 1-inch cubes and pat dry. Season with 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon pepper, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon smoked paprika. Heat olive oil in large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Sear steak 3 to 5 minutes until golden-brown on all sides and internal temperature reaches 135°F. Remove to a plate.
  3. Reduce heat to medium and melt butter in the same skillet, scraping up browned bits. Add minced garlic and stir constantly for 1 minute until fragrant and golden but not brown.
  4. Pour in heavy cream and whole milk, stirring to combine. Simmer 3 to 4 minutes until sauce reduces slightly and coats the back of a spoon.
  5. Add parmesan cheese in three batches, stirring continuously after each addition until melted and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning. Add reserved pasta water if sauce is too thick.
  6. Return steak and tortellini to skillet. Toss gently for 2 minutes until everything is coated in sauce and heated through.
  7. Remove from heat and serve immediately. Garnish with fresh parsley, cracked black pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.

Notes

Use fresh or refrigerated tortellini for best texture. Sirloin is leaner and budget-friendly, while ribeye offers extra tenderness. Store leftovers in airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk or cream. Can freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.