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Cowboy butter tortellini steak bites served on white plate with fresh parsley garnish

One-Pan Cowboy Butter Tortellini Steak Bites

Juicy seared steak bites paired with cheese tortellini and tossed in a zesty cowboy butter sauce with garlic, smoked paprika, fresh herbs, and lemon. Quick to prepare and full of bold flavor.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 620

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs sirloin or ribeye steak cut into bite-sized cubes
  • 1 tsp Cajun seasoning adjust to taste
  • 0.5 tsp smoked paprika
  • 0.5 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 6 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 0.5 tsp red pepper flakes optional, for heat
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 lemon juiced
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped
  • 1 tbsp fresh chives chopped
  • 12 oz cheese tortellini fresh or refrigerated
  • 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese freshly grated recommended
  • 0.5 cup reserved pasta water

Equipment

  • Large pot for pasta
  • 12-inch skillet or larger
  • Paper towels
  • Colander
  • Heatproof measuring cup

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add cheese tortellini and cook according to package directions until al dente, stirring occasionally. Before draining, scoop out 1/2 cup of pasta water into a heatproof measuring cup. Drain tortellini in a colander and set aside.
  2. While pasta cooks, pat steak cubes completely dry with paper towels. Season evenly with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Heat your 12-inch skillet while you season the steak (2-3 minutes).
  3. Heat olive oil in skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add steak bites in a single layer without overcrowding (work in batches if needed). Cook for 2-3 minutes per side for medium doneness on 1-inch cubes, until deeply browned with a caramelized crust. Transfer to a plate to rest for 3-5 minutes while you make the sauce.
  4. Reduce heat to medium. Add butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant but not browned. Stir in red pepper flakes, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice.
  5. Add chopped parsley and chives to the butter mixture. Return cooked tortellini and rested steak bites to the skillet, tossing gently to coat.
  6. Gradually add reserved pasta water, a few tablespoons at a time, until sauce coats the back of a spoon and looks creamy. Sprinkle in Parmesan cheese and stir until melted. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley.

Notes

Ribeye provides more marbling and flavor, while sirloin offers a leaner option. Pat steak dry before seasoning for proper searing. Fresh herbs are essential for best flavor. Pasta water helps create a silky sauce. Use a 12-inch skillet for best results. Store leftovers in airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in skillet with a splash of water or broth.