Name: Garlic Butter Beef and Spinach Tortellini
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 12 oz cheese tortellini; 1 lb beef (sirloin or ribeye), cut into bite-sized pieces; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 3 tbsp butter; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 cup fresh spinach; 1/2 cup diced tomatoes; 1/2 cup beef broth; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); 1/4 cup grated Parmesan (optional)

There’s something so satisfying about a hearty bowl of pasta, especially when it’s packed with rich, buttery flavors and tender beef. This Garlic Butter Beef and Spinach Tortellini is the perfect combination of comfort and indulgence, bringing together melt-in-your-mouth beef, cheesy tortellini, and a luscious garlic butter sauce that ties everything together.

I love making this dish on busy weeknights when I need something filling yet easy to prepare. The beef is seared to perfection, the tortellini soaks up the garlicky goodness, and the fresh spinach adds a touch of color and nutrition. Every bite bursts with flavor, making it a dish you’ll crave over and over again.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Beef and Spinach Tortellini

Quick and easy – Ready in under 30 minutes!
Rich and flavorful – The garlic butter sauce elevates the dish beautifully.
Filling and satisfying – A complete meal with protein, carbs, and veggies.
One-pan convenience – Fewer dishes to wash after dinner!
Crowd-pleaser – Both kids and adults will love the cheesy, buttery goodness.

What Kind of Tortellini Should I Use?

When it comes to tortellini, you have a few options to choose from. Fresh, refrigerated tortellini is my go-to because it cooks quickly and has a tender, delicate texture. However, frozen tortellini is just as good and only takes a few extra minutes to cook. If you’re using dried tortellini, be sure to boil it until al dente before adding it to the dish, as it takes the longest to cook.

As for the filling, cheese tortellini is a perfect match for this recipe since it complements the rich garlic butter sauce. If you want to switch things up, meat-filled tortellini can add even more depth of flavor.

Options for Substitutions

This recipe is flexible, and you can easily adjust it based on what you have on hand. Here are a few ideas:

Beef Substitute: Swap out the beef for chicken, shrimp, or even mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
Tortellini Choices: Try different flavors of tortellini, like spinach and ricotta or three-cheese.
Spinach Alternative: Kale or arugula can be used instead of spinach for a slightly different texture and flavor.
Butter Substitute: If you want a lighter option, replace butter with olive oil. You can also use a mix of both for balance.
Garlic Boost: Love garlic? Feel free to add more! Roasted garlic can also bring a deeper, sweeter garlic flavor.
Extra Spice: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for some heat.
Cheesy Finish: A sprinkle of Parmesan or Pecorino Romano on top makes it even more delicious.

Ingredients for This Garlic Butter Beef and Spinach Tortellini

Every ingredient in this dish plays a key role in making it irresistibly delicious. Here’s what you’ll need:

Tortellini – Cheese-filled tortellini adds a creamy, rich bite to balance the savory flavors of the beef and garlic butter sauce.
Beef – Tender chunks of beef bring protein and heartiness to the dish. I prefer sirloin or ribeye for the best flavor and tenderness.
Garlic – Freshly minced garlic is the star of the sauce, infusing it with deep, aromatic flavor.
Butter – The base of the sauce, butter creates a silky, rich texture that coats every bite.
Spinach – Adds a fresh and slightly earthy flavor while bringing a dose of nutrients.
Olive Oil – Helps sear the beef to perfection while adding a subtle depth of flavor.
Tomatoes – Diced tomatoes add a touch of acidity and sweetness, balancing out the richness of the dish.
Beef Broth – Enhances the savory taste while keeping everything moist and flavorful.
Italian Seasoning – A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme adds warmth and depth to the dish.
Salt & Black Pepper – Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors.
Red Pepper Flakes (optional) – A great way to add a bit of heat if you like a little spice.
Parmesan Cheese (optional) – A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan on top gives the dish a final, delicious touch.

Step 1: Cook the Tortellini

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the tortellini according to the package instructions. If using fresh tortellini, it should only take a few minutes. Once cooked, drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sear the Beef

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Add the beef cubes, seasoning them with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of Italian seasoning. Sear until browned on all sides, about 3–4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic and Tomatoes

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add butter. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the diced tomatoes and cook for another 2–3 minutes until they soften slightly.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

Pour in the beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor. Let it simmer for 2 minutes, then stir in more butter to create a silky sauce. If you like a little heat, add red pepper flakes at this stage.

Step 5: Add the Spinach and Beef

Toss in the fresh spinach and let it wilt down for about 1–2 minutes. Then, return the seared beef to the skillet, stirring everything together so the flavors meld.

Step 6: Combine with Tortellini

Finally, add the cooked tortellini to the skillet, gently tossing it in the garlic butter sauce until fully coated. Let it cook for another 1–2 minutes, allowing the pasta to absorb all the flavors.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Remove from heat and sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy this rich, buttery, and comforting meal!

How Long to Cook Garlic Butter Beef and Spinach Tortellini

This dish comes together quickly, making it perfect for a weeknight meal. Here’s a breakdown of the cooking times:

Tortellini: 3–5 minutes (depending on whether it’s fresh, frozen, or dried)
Beef Searing: 3–4 minutes
Garlic and Tomatoes: 3–4 minutes
Simmering the Sauce: 2 minutes
Spinach Wilting & Combining Everything: 3–4 minutes

In total, you’ll need about 20–25 minutes from start to finish!

Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Beef and Spinach Tortellini

Use high-quality beef – Opt for tender cuts like sirloin or ribeye for the best results. If using a tougher cut, slice it thinly against the grain.
Don’t overcook the tortellini – It should be al dente, so it doesn’t become mushy when mixed with the sauce.
Sear the beef properly – Get your pan hot before adding the beef to ensure a nice crust on the outside.
Fresh garlic is key – Minced fresh garlic gives the sauce the best flavor—avoid pre-minced garlic if possible.
Use butter and olive oil – The combination prevents the butter from burning while enhancing the flavor.
Adjust the sauce consistency – If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of beef broth. If it’s too thin, let it simmer for an extra minute or two.
Serve immediately – This dish is best enjoyed fresh while the tortellini is soft and the sauce is warm and buttery.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Even though this recipe is simple, a few common mistakes can affect the final result. Here’s what to avoid:

Overcooking the tortellini – It can become too soft and fall apart when mixed with the sauce. Cook just until al dente.
Using the wrong cut of beef – Tougher cuts like stew meat take longer to cook and may turn out chewy. Use tender cuts like sirloin or ribeye.
Skipping the sear on the beef – A golden-brown crust adds flavor! Make sure your pan is hot before adding the beef.
Not seasoning at each stage – Seasoning the beef, sauce, and tortellini separately ensures balanced flavor throughout the dish.
Burning the garlic – Garlic cooks quickly! Stir frequently and lower the heat if needed.
Forgetting to deglaze the pan – The browned bits on the skillet add richness—scrape them up with beef broth for maximum flavor.
Adding spinach too early – It wilts fast, so add it near the end to keep it fresh and vibrant.
Letting the dish sit too long before serving – The tortellini can absorb too much sauce and lose its texture. Serve immediately!

What to Serve With Garlic Butter Beef and Spinach Tortellini

While this dish is a meal on its own, pairing it with the right side dishes can elevate the experience. Here are some great options:

1. Crusty Garlic Bread

A warm, crispy slice of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the buttery sauce.

2. Simple Caesar Salad

A fresh Caesar salad adds a crisp contrast to the rich pasta.

3. Roasted Cherry Tomatoes

The slight sweetness and acidity balance out the savory garlic butter sauce.

4. Sautéed Mushrooms

Mushrooms complement the beef and add extra umami flavor.

5. A Glass of Red Wine

A bold red like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot pairs beautifully with this dish.

6. Steamed or Roasted Broccoli

A light veggie side helps balance out the richness.

7. Marinated Olives

A mix of olives adds a Mediterranean touch and a burst of salty goodness.

8. Sparkling Lemon Water

A refreshing, citrusy drink helps cleanse the palate between bites.

Storage Instructions

If you have leftovers, don’t worry—this dish stores well and can be enjoyed later! Here’s how to store and reheat it properly:

Refrigeration: Store leftover Garlic Butter Beef and Spinach Tortellini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: While tortellini can be frozen, the sauce may lose some of its texture. If freezing, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating Instructions

Stovetop (Best Method): Add a splash of beef broth or water to a pan and reheat over medium heat, stirring gently until warmed through.
Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until hot. Add a little butter or broth to keep the sauce from drying out.
Oven: Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and reheat at 350°F (175°C) for about 10–15 minutes.

Estimated Nutrition

The following estimates are based on one serving of Garlic Butter Beef and Spinach Tortellini. Keep in mind that values may vary based on portion size and ingredient substitutions:

Calories: ~550 kcal
Protein: ~35g
Carbohydrates: ~45g
Fat: ~25g
Saturated Fat: ~10g
Fiber: ~5g
Sugar: ~4g
Sodium: ~750mg

This dish is rich and satisfying, offering a great balance of protein, carbs, and healthy fats.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use ground beef instead of steak?

Yes! Ground beef works well if you want a more budget-friendly option. Just be sure to drain excess grease before adding the other ingredients.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep the ingredients ahead of time. Cook the beef and store it separately, then combine everything when ready to serve.

3. How can I make this dish more garlicky?

Add extra minced garlic, roast whole cloves for a sweeter garlic flavor, or sprinkle garlic powder into the sauce.

4. Can I use sun-dried tomatoes instead of fresh ones?

Absolutely! Sun-dried tomatoes add a deeper, tangy flavor. Just chop them finely and mix them in with the garlic butter sauce.

5. What if I don’t have spinach?

You can use kale, arugula, or even Swiss chard as a substitute. Just adjust the cooking time depending on how tender the greens are.

6. Can I use less butter for a lighter version?

Yes! You can reduce the butter or replace part of it with olive oil for a lighter dish.

7. What cheese works best for topping?

Parmesan is a classic choice, but Pecorino Romano or even shredded mozzarella work well too.

8. What wine pairs best with this dish?

A bold red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or a medium-bodied Merlot complements the beef and garlic butter flavors perfectly.

Conclusion

This Garlic Butter Beef and Spinach Tortellini is a restaurant-quality meal that’s easy to make at home! With its rich garlic butter sauce, tender beef, and cheesy tortellini, it’s bound to be a family favorite. Don’t forget to pin this recipe on Pinterest and share it with your friends and family so they can enjoy it too!