If you’re yearning for a meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, the Garlic Butter Beef Tortellini Recipe is here to deliver just that. This dish combines tender, juicy ground beef with pillowy cheese tortellini all coated in a luscious garlic butter sauce. Each bite bursts with bold, comforting flavors, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or casual dinner party superstar. From the buttery aroma to the satisfying mix of textures, this recipe will quickly become one of your favorites to turn to whenever you want something indulgent yet incredibly easy to whip up.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What’s truly wonderful about the Garlic Butter Beef Tortellini Recipe is how straightforward the ingredients are, yet how each one plays a crucial role. From the richness of browned beef to the creamy cheese-filled tortellini, every component brings something special to the table—whether it’s flavor, texture, or that gorgeous golden color.
- 1 lb ground beef: Provides a hearty, savory base with a satisfying meaty texture.
- 1 package (20 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini: Offers soft, cheesy pockets that soak up the garlic butter sauce beautifully.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds a rich, velvety coating that melds all the flavors.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with its unmistakable and aromatic punch.
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For a subtle kick of heat that perks up the palate.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Enhances all the flavors and balances the richness.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Introduces a nutty savoriness that rounds out the dish.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Brings a fresh, herbal brightness and beautiful green contrast.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used to brown the beef perfectly, adding a touch of fruity richness.
How to Make Garlic Butter Beef Tortellini Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by heating the olive oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet. Add the ground beef, seasoning it with salt and black pepper. Cook the meat until it’s beautifully browned and broken into crumbles, which should take about 6 to 8 minutes. Be sure to drain any excess grease to keep the dish from feeling too heavy. This step creates a flavorful, savory foundation that’s key to the entire recipe.
Step 2: Cook the Cheese Tortellini
While your beef is browning, bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Toss in the refrigerated cheese tortellini and cook according to the package instructions, usually between 3 to 5 minutes, until they’re tender and ready to soak up that garlic butter goodness. Once cooked, drain and give them a quick shake to remove excess water. This ensures your tortellini won’t dilute the sauce.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium and add the butter directly to the skillet with the cooked beef. As the butter melts, stir in the minced garlic and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Let it all cook together gently for 1 to 2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant and the flavors begin to meld harmoniously.
Step 4: Combine Tortellini and Garlic Butter Beef
Now it’s time for the magic moment—add your cooked tortellini right into the skillet. Gently toss everything together to ensure every piece of pasta is coated in that rich, garlicky butter and savory beef mixture. This step ties all the flavors and textures into one irresistible dish.
Step 5: Finish with Parmesan and Parsley
Turn off the heat and sprinkle in the grated Parmesan and fresh parsley. Mix everything until the cheese melts slightly and the herbs are evenly distributed, adding a fresh, vibrant note and a delectable cheesy finish.
Step 6: Serve Warm and Enjoy
Dish out this gorgeous garlic butter beef tortellini while it’s still warm, offering extra Parmesan on the side if you like. The inviting aroma and the perfect balance of flavors make every spoonful a moment to savor.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Beef Tortellini Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds a burst of green color but also lends an herbal brightness that brightens the dish. For an extra touch, drizzle a little olive oil or add a few extra flakes of red pepper if you want to bring a lively spark to your plate.
Side Dishes
This hearty Garlic Butter Beef Tortellini pairs beautifully with simple sides such as a crisp Caesar salad, garlic bread to soak up every bit of sauce, or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans to add a fresh contrast and balance the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the tortellini in shallow bowls garnished with Parmesan crisps or toasted pine nuts for crunch. You can also offer it as a comforting filling inside bell pepper halves topped with melted cheese, creating a visually stunning and flavorful presentation perfect for impressing guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Garlic Butter Beef Tortellini keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Storing it properly helps maintain its moistness and keeps the flavors fresh for your next meal.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish, but it’s best to do so before adding the Parmesan and parsley. Pack it in a freezer-safe container and enjoy within 2 months for peak flavor. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, use a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of water or broth to refresh the sauce. Stir gently until warmed through, or microwave in short increments, stirring in between, to preserve the tortellini’s delicate texture and prevent drying out.
FAQs
Can I use another type of pasta instead of tortellini?
Absolutely! While cheese tortellini is ideal for that pillowy, cheesy bite, other stuffed pasta or even classic shapes like penne or rigatoni work well with the garlic butter beef sauce.
Is ground beef the only meat I can use?
Feel free to experiment! Ground turkey, chicken, or sausage can be delicious alternatives if you want a lighter or different flavor profile.
How spicy is this dish with red pepper flakes?
The amount of red pepper flakes used is quite mild, providing just a gentle heat that complements the garlic. You can always adjust the quantity to suit your spice preference or omit it entirely.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Definitely! Swap the ground beef for sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based meat substitute to keep that hearty texture while making it vegetarian-friendly.
What type of Parmesan cheese should I use?
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese delivers the best flavor and melts beautifully into the dish. Avoid pre-grated or powdered versions for the most authentic and rich taste.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a dish that’s comforting, easy, and packs a punch of flavor, the Garlic Butter Beef Tortellini Recipe is your new best friend. It’s a delightful combination of rich beef, creamy cheese, and garlic butter that makes dinners feel special without any fuss. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s such a popular favorite in my kitchen—go ahead and treat yourself to this mouthwatering meal today!
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Garlic Butter Beef Tortellini Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
Garlic Butter Beef Tortellini is a quick and delicious skillet meal combining savory ground beef with tender cheese tortellini tossed in a fragrant garlic butter sauce. Finished with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, this comforting dish comes together in just 20 minutes, perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Beef Mixture
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
Pasta
- 1 package (20 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini
Finishing Touches
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Cook the Ground Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook for about 6–8 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula until browned. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Drain any excess grease from the skillet if necessary.
- Prepare the Tortellini: While the beef is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the refrigerated cheese tortellini and cook according to package instructions, typically 3–5 minutes, until tender. Drain well and set aside.
- Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: Reduce the heat of the skillet with beef to medium. Add the unsalted butter and let it melt completely. Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), cooking for 1–2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
- Toss Tortellini with Beef and Sauce: Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet and gently toss everything together to coat the pasta evenly with the garlic butter and beef mixture.
- Finish with Parmesan and Parsley: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley over the mixture, stirring gently until combined and the cheese has slightly melted.
- Serve Warm: Plate the Garlic Butter Beef Tortellini and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes according to your preference.
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Fresh parsley adds a bright flavor, but dried parsley can be used if fresh is unavailable—use about 1 teaspoon dried.
- Drain the cooked tortellini well to avoid a watery sauce.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for optimal flavor and better melting.
- If you prefer a creamier sauce, add a splash of heavy cream or milk when adding the butter.
