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Garlic Butter Tortellini in Creamy Sauce with Beef, Italian Sausage & Spinach


  • Author: Sara McKenney
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

Creamy, comforting, and packed with bold flavors—this Garlic Butter Tortellini in Creamy Sauce with Beef, Italian Sausage & Spinach is the ultimate quick dinner idea. Cheese-filled tortellini are tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce with a mix of ground beef and Italian sausage, all balanced by fresh spinach. It’s easy, satisfying, and perfect for anyone craving a warm, hearty meal. Whether you’re looking for an easy recipe, comfort food ideas, or a cozy dinner that comes together fast—this one’s got it all.


Ingredients

9 oz cheese tortellini

½ lb ground beef

½ lb Italian sausage

3 cups fresh spinach

4 cloves garlic, minced

3 tbsp unsalted butter

1 cup heavy cream

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Salt, to taste

Black pepper, to taste

1 tbsp olive oil


Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and Italian sausage, breaking them up with a spatula. Cook until browned, about 6–8 minutes. Transfer to a plate and set aside.

2. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add butter. Once melted, stir in minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

3. Add spinach to the skillet and sauté until just wilted.

4. Pour in the heavy cream and stir well. Let simmer for 2–3 minutes, then stir in Parmesan cheese until melted.

5. Meanwhile, cook tortellini in a pot of salted boiling water according to package directions (usually 3–5 minutes). Drain and add to the sauce.

6. Return the cooked beef and sausage to the skillet. Gently toss everything to coat the tortellini in the creamy sauce. Let it heat through for 2–3 more minutes.

7. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Serve hot with extra Parmesan on top.

Notes

Let the cream come to room temperature before adding to prevent curdling.

Use freshly grated Parmesan for best texture and flavor in the sauce.

A splash of pasta water can loosen the sauce if it gets too thick.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 1½ cups)
  • Calories: 620
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 820mg
  • Fat: 38g
  • Saturated Fat: 18g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 16g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 39g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 29g
  • Cholesterol: 115mg

Keywords: quick dinner, creamy tortellini, pasta recipe, garlic butter pasta, comfort food