There’s nothing quite like the sizzle of steak hitting a hot skillet, is there? That sound alone makes my mouth water every time. But here’s the thing – you don’t need hours in the kitchen or fancy equipment to create an unforgettable steak dinner. My garlic butter steak bites with creamy parmesan tortellini brings all that rich, indulgent flavor to your table in under 30 minutes. As someone who’s spent years testing recipes in my tiny apartment kitchen (and feeding very opinionated friends!), I can promise you this dish delivers restaurant-quality taste without the fuss.
What makes this recipe special? It’s that perfect marriage of juicy, garlicky steak bites with pillowy tortellini swimming in a velvety parmesan sauce. The kind of meal that makes you close your eyes after the first bite. And the best part? Everything comes together in one pan – which means more flavor and less cleanup. Whether it’s date night or just treating yourself after a long day, this dish never lets me down.
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Why You’ll Love These Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Tortellini
Oh honey, let me count the ways this dish will steal your heart! I’ve made this recipe more times than I can remember, and here’s why it never gets old:
- Dinner in a flash: 25 minutes from fridge to table – faster than pizza delivery on its best day!
- Flavor explosion: That garlic butter sauce clinging to every bite? Absolute magic. The parmesan melts into the cream creating this luxurious, velvety blanket for the tortellini.
- Restaurant wow factor: Your guests will think you’ve been cooking all day when really you just pulled off the ultimate kitchen shortcut.
- One-pan wonder: Less cleanup means more time enjoying that second glass of wine (we both know you deserve it).
Trust me, the first time you make this, you’ll understand why it’s become my most-requested weeknight hero. That perfect bite of seared steak with creamy pasta? Perfection.
Ingredients for Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Tortellini
Here’s what you’ll need to make this flavor-packed dish. I’m all about simplicity, so every ingredient pulls its weight to create that perfect balance of richness and comfort:
- 1 lb sirloin steak: Cut into 1-inch cubes – trust me, this size sears beautifully and stays juicy.
- 1 package (9 oz) fresh cheese tortellini: Go fresh, not frozen – the texture makes all the difference.
- 3 tbsp butter: Unsalted, so you control the seasoning.
- 4 cloves garlic: Minced, not pressed – it gives you just the right garlicky punch without being overpowering.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: For that luxurious, silky sauce.
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese: Pack it in – this is where the flavor really builds.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: For that perfect sear on the steak.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Just enough to enhance all the flavors.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper: Freshly ground, if you’ve got it.
- 1 tsp chopped parsley (optional): For a pop of color and freshness at the end.
That’s it! Simple, right? But when these ingredients come together, they create something truly special. Just wait until you taste it!
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Garlic Butter Steak Bites With Creamy Parmesan Tortellini And Garlic Sauce
- Total Time: 25 mins
- Yield: 2 servings
- Diet: Low Lactose
Description
Juicy steak bites paired with creamy parmesan tortellini in a rich garlic butter sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 lb sirloin steak, cubed
- 1 package (9 oz) fresh cheese tortellini
- 3 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season steak bites with salt and pepper, then sear for 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from skillet.
- Reduce heat to medium, melt butter in the same skillet. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
- Pour in heavy cream and parmesan, stir until sauce thickens slightly.
- Return steak and tortellini to skillet, toss to coat in sauce.
- Garnish with parsley if desired and serve immediately.
Notes
- Use fresh tortellini for best texture.
- Sirloin works well but ribeye or tenderloin can be substituted.
- Sauce thickens upon standing – add a splash of pasta water if needed.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Equipment Needed
Don’t worry – you won’t need anything fancy for this recipe! Here’s what I always grab from my kitchen:
- Large skillet: Your workhorse for searing steak and simmering sauce (I use my trusty 12-inch cast iron)
- Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring that creamy sauce without scratching your pan
- Colander: For draining those beautiful tortellini
Optional but handy: a garlic press if you’re in a hurry (though I swear by hand-mining for better flavor). That’s it – let’s get cooking!
If you can’t get enough of buttery, cheesy pasta creations, you’ll love our Cheesy Garlic Steak Bites Over Creamy Linguine Pasta. It’s another steak lover’s dream with layers of flavor and a velvety sauce that pairs perfectly with tender pasta.
How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Tortellini
Alright, let’s get cooking! This might look like a fancy dish, but I promise it comes together in simple steps. Just follow along and you’ll have the most incredible steak and pasta dinner in no time.
Cooking the Tortellini
First things first – let’s get those tortellini going. Bring a pot of salted water to boil (it should taste like the sea!) and cook your fresh tortellini just until al dente – usually about 2-3 minutes. Here’s my pro tip: scoop out about ½ cup of that starchy pasta water before draining, then set it aside. You might need it later to loosen up the sauce. Drain the tortellini but don’t rinse it – we want all that lovely starch to help the sauce cling later.
Searing the Steak Bites
While your pasta cooks, heat that olive oil in your large skillet over medium-high heat. You’ll know it’s ready when a drop of water sizzles immediately. Now, here’s the crucial part – don’t crowd the pan! Give those steak cubes some breathing room, working in batches if needed. Sear them for about 2-3 minutes per side until they get that beautiful brown crust. No touching! Let them develop that crust before flipping. Once they’re nicely browned but still a bit pink inside, remove them to a plate – they’ll finish cooking later.
Preparing the Garlic Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter in that same glorious skillet (all those browned steak bits = flavor gold!). Add your minced garlic and sauté just until fragrant – about 30 seconds max. Any longer and it’ll burn, and nobody wants bitter garlic! Now pour in the heavy cream and let it bubble gently for a minute before stirring in the parmesan. The sauce should coat the back of your spoon nicely – if it’s too thick, stir in a splash of that reserved pasta water.
Combining All Components
Time for the magic! Return the steak and any accumulated juices to the skillet, then add your cooked tortellini. Gently toss everything together so every bite gets coated in that luscious garlic parmesan sauce. I like to use tongs for this – it helps distribute everything evenly without breaking those delicate tortellini. Give it a taste and adjust seasoning if needed, then serve immediately with a sprinkle of fresh parsley if you’re feeling fancy.
Expert Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Steak Bites
After making this dish more times than I can count, I’ve learned a few tricks to make sure it turns out perfect every single time. Here’s what you need to know:
- Don’t overcook that steak! Remember, the steak bites will continue cooking when you return them to the sauce. Pull them from the skillet when they’re just slightly under your desired doneness – they’ll finish perfectly in the residual heat.
- Sauce separation woes? If your sauce breaks or looks grainy, don’t panic! A splash of that reserved pasta water and a vigorous whisk will bring it right back together. Works like a charm.
- Fresh vs dried herbs: While I love fresh parsley for garnish, dried Italian herbs (about 1/2 tsp) added with the garlic can add wonderful depth if that’s what you have on hand.
- Heat management is key: That garlic burns in a heartbeat – keep the heat at medium when sautéing it. I’ve ruined more batches than I care to admit by getting impatient!
Follow these simple tips and you’ll be amazed at how restaurant-quality this dish turns out. Trust me – your taste buds will thank you!

Serving Suggestions for Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Tortellini
Oh, the fun part – plating up this beauty! I love serving these garlic butter steak bites family-style in a big shallow bowl so everyone can see that gorgeous sauce clinging to every tortellini. Here are my go-to pairings:
- Crusty bread: A warm baguette is mandatory in my house – perfect for sopping up every last drop of that garlicky parmesan sauce.
- Simple green salad: Something crisp like arugula with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness beautifully.
- Roasted vegetables: Asparagus or broccolini roasted with olive oil makes it feel like a complete meal.
For extra wow factor, sprinkle with extra parmesan and a few cracks of black pepper right at the table – it makes all the difference!
Storing and Reheating Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Tortellini
Leftovers? (As if!) But if you somehow manage to have some, here’s how to keep them tasting amazing. Store everything in an airtight container in the fridge – glass works best because it won’t absorb any garlicky smells. They’ll keep for about 3 days, though the tortellini texture is best within 24 hours. When reheating, go low and slow on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk to bring the sauce back to life. Microwave works in a pinch, but stir every 30 seconds to prevent that sad, separated sauce look. Pro tip: the steak bites taste incredible cold straight from the fridge – don’t ask me how I know!
Nutrition Information for Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Tortellini
Keep in mind, these nutrition values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used. For one serving (about half the recipe), you’re looking at approximately 720 calories, 38g protein, 42g carbs, and 48g fat. It’s a hearty dish, so a little goes a long way in satisfying those steak and pasta cravings!
For more mouthwatering steak and pasta combinations, follow us on Pinterest at SconesRecipe. Discover creamy comfort food recipes, quick weeknight dinners, and pasta inspirations that will keep you coming back for more.
FAQs About Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Tortellini
I get asked all sorts of questions about this recipe – here are the ones that pop up most often!
Can I use frozen tortellini?
Absolutely! In a pinch, frozen works fine – just adjust cooking time according to package directions. The texture won’t be quite as pillowy as fresh, but it’ll still taste delicious swimming in that garlic butter sauce.
What are the best steak substitutes?
While sirloin is my budget-friendly favorite, ribeye or filet mignon make luxurious alternatives. Not feeling steak? Chicken breast cubes or even large shrimp work beautifully – just adjust cooking times accordingly.
How can I make it spicier?
Oh, I love this question! For heat, add crushed red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic (start with 1/4 tsp). Or stir in a teaspoon of Calabrian chili paste with the cream – trust me, it adds incredible depth along with heat.