Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Alfredo Tortellini Recipe
What if you could have everything you crave—juicy seared steak, rich garlicky butter, and luscious Alfredo-coated cheese tortellini—in one crave-worthy pan? Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Alfredo Tortellini brings all these flavors together for the ultimate comfort skillet meal. Succulent steak mingles with pillow-soft pasta, all tossed in a silky Parmesan cream sauce with just a kiss of garlic. It’s luxurious yet simple, quick enough to wow on a weeknight, and impressive enough to anchor a dinner party. If you love bold, satisfying flavors, this recipe is destined to become a new classic in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You won’t believe how such simple ingredients can taste so decadent together! Each element shines in this dish, balancing richness, savoriness, and just a hint of spice. Here’s what you’ll need for the best Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Alfredo Tortellini:
- Sirloin steak: Cut into bite-sized pieces, this tender cut sears beautifully while staying juicy inside. You can also sub ribeye or New York strip for extra indulgence.
- Olive oil: The perfect high-heat oil to get your steak bites nicely golden without burning.
- Unsalted butter: The secret to that rich, garlicky flavor that seeps into every bite of steak and pasta.
- Garlic cloves: Minced fresh for the most aromatic punch—don’t skimp!
- Salt and black pepper: Season steak generously to develop a savory crust and bring out all the best flavors.
- Smoked paprika: Adds warmth and subtle smokiness, making both steak and sauce irresistibly complex.
- Refrigerated cheese tortellini: Tender pasta stuffed with cheese melts into the Alfredo, adding pockets of creamy delight.
- Heavy cream: This forms the dreamy, ultra-silky sauce that wraps every tortellini and steak bite.
- Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated is best for a nutty, salty finish—plus, it helps thicken the sauce perfectly.
- Garlic powder: Reinforces the garlicky undertones in the Alfredo so every element pops.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): For a gentle heat that wakes up your palate without overpowering.
- Fresh parsley: Adds a final burst of color and fresh flavor to brighten up your finished platter.
How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Alfredo Tortellini
Step 1: Cook the Tortellini
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Toss in the cheese tortellini and cook according to the package directions until they’re plump and tender. Be careful not to overcook—al dente tortellini will hold their shape beautifully in the sauce. Drain them well and set aside so they’re ready for their big cheesy moment.
Step 2: Sear the Steak Bites
Pat the steak cubes dry, then sprinkle them with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika for max flavor. Heat olive oil in a big skillet over medium-high until shimmering. Add the steak in batches, giving each piece plenty of space to brown. Sear for 2 to 3 minutes on each side—the goal is a caramelized crust with a juicy, tender middle. As soon as they’re done, transfer them to a plate (they’ll go back in at the end).
Step 3: Build the Garlic Butter Alfredo Sauce
Turn that same skillet down to medium and melt the butter, letting it pick up all the delicious steak fond left behind. Add the minced garlic and sizzle for about a minute, just until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, then whisk in the Parmesan, garlic powder, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you want some heat. Simmer and stir until you have a velvety, rich sauce—about 3 to 5 minutes. It should coat the back of a spoon but still feel luscious and pourable.
Step 4: Bring It All Together
Gently fold the cooked tortellini into the Alfredo sauce so every nook and cranny gets covered in cheesy richness. Add the steak bites (and any juices from the plate) back into the skillet, giving everything a final toss. You’ll be greeted with an unbelievable aroma and a dish that looks and smells like a five-star comfort classic.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Shower the skillet generously with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Alfredo Tortellini straight from the pan while it’s piping hot and ultra-creamy—trust me, you won’t want to wait!
How to Serve Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Alfredo Tortellini
Garnishes
The right garnishes make the meal shine. Sprinkle lots of freshly chopped parsley over the top for a vibrant touch. If you love extra cheese, grate a little more Parmesan just before serving. A tiny pinch of red pepper flakes or cracked black pepper adds flair—and flavor! A drizzle of good olive oil or a wedge of lemon can add a simple, bright finish.
Side Dishes
This dish is filling on its own, but fresh accompaniments help round it out. A crisp green salad with a simple vinaigrette brings balance to the rich Alfredo. Garlicky roasted broccoli, sautéed spinach, or tender green beans are lovely too. For soaking up extra sauce, serve with crusty garlic bread or a warm ciabatta roll.
Creative Ways to Present
For a casual family-style meal, serve the Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Alfredo Tortellini in a big skillet placed at the center of the table. Entertaining? Plate it up individually with a towering mound of tortellini topped with glossy steak bites and a flutter of parsley for a restaurant-style look. Mini serveware works great for appetizers at parties—just add a small fork and watch them disappear!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Got leftovers? Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The steak and pasta will still taste incredible, and the sauce may even become richer as the flavors meld overnight.
Freezing
If you want to freeze, portion the Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Alfredo Tortellini into freezer-safe containers. Let it cool completely, then stash in the freezer for up to one month. Note that the cream sauce may separate a bit once thawed, but a gentle stir over low heat usually brings everything back together.
Reheating
The best way to reheat is gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the Alfredo sauce if needed. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works—stir halfway through to ensure even heating, and enjoy every forkful anew.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of steak for this dish?
Absolutely! While sirloin is tasty and budget-friendly, ribeye or New York strip bring extra tenderness and flavor. Just cut them into bite-sized chunks and follow the same searing instructions for perfect Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Alfredo Tortellini.
How can I adjust the consistency of the Alfredo sauce?
For a thinner sauce, add a splash of reserved pasta water or milk as you mix everything together. For a thicker, richer consistency, let the sauce simmer for an extra minute or add a touch more Parmesan cheese.
What vegetables pair well with this meal?
Bright, fresh vegetables like steamed broccoli, roasted asparagus, or sautéed spinach work beautifully. Their light flavors and textures contrast wonderfully with the creamy, savory pasta and steak.
Is this recipe spicy?
The red pepper flakes lend a gentle heat, but you can easily adjust to your taste—or leave them out entirely for a mild, family-friendly dish. The main theme is creamy, garlicky goodness!
Can I prepare any components in advance?
You sure can. Cook the tortellini and chop the steak a few hours early, then refrigerate until you’re ready to finish the dish. The sauce is best made just before serving for optimum texture, but prepping ahead speeds things up on a busy night.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving something hearty, memorable, and destined to become a new favorite, give Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Alfredo Tortellini a go. Every bite is packed with luscious flavor and warmth, perfect for sharing with family or friends. I hope you love this dish as much as I do—don’t forget to customize it with your favorite touches and make it the star of your next meal!
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Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Alfredo Tortellini Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Tender steak bites cooked in a garlic butter sauce, served with creamy alfredo tortellini for a decadent and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Steak Bites:
- 1 lb sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
Creamy Alfredo Tortellini:
- 9 oz refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Cook Tortellini: Boil salted water, cook tortellini per package instructions, drain.
- Sear Steak Bites: Season steak, sear in olive oil until browned, set aside.
- Make Garlic Butter Sauce: In skillet, melt butter, add garlic, cook. Stir in cream, Parmesan, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes. Simmer until thickened.
- Combine: Add tortellini to sauce, mix. Return steak to skillet, combine. Garnish with parsley.
Notes
- Consider using ribeye or New York strip steak for more tenderness.
- To thin sauce, add a splash of pasta water.
- Adjust seasonings to personal preference.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 610
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 590mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 135mg
