Why You’ll Love Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Alfredo Tortellini Recipe
This dish combines the best of hearty steakhouse flavor and indulgent pasta comfort. The tender steak bites are seared in garlic butter for deep savory flavor, while the creamy Parmesan Alfredo sauce clings to every tortellini, making each bite ultra‑satisfying. It’s easy to make, comes together in one skillet, and delivers restaurant‑style results at home. Plus, minimal cleanup makes it a weeknight favorite.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
steak bites
butter
garlic, minced
cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
heavy cream
grated Parmesan cheese
salt and pepper
parsley for garnish (optional)
Full Ingredients List
1 lb steak bites
3 tablespoons butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 package tortellini (fresh or frozen)
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
salt and pepper, to taste
parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions
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Cook the tortellini according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
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In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium‑high heat. Add steak bites, season with salt and pepper, and sear 3–4 minutes per side until browned. Remove and set aside.
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Add the remaining tablespoon of butter and the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
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Reduce the heat and pour in the heavy cream. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and simmer 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
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Add the cooked tortellini to the sauce and toss to coat. Return the steak bites to the skillet and warm through.
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Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve hot.
Servings and timing
Serves: 4 people
Prep time: about 15 minutes
Cook time: about 30 minutes
Total time: about 45 minutes
Variations
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Swap steak for grilled chicken or shrimp for a different protein twist.
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Use spinach or mushroom tortellini to add extra flavor to the pasta.
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Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
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Stir in a handful of baby spinach during the last minute of cooking for added greens.
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Replace Parmesan with Asiago or Romano cheese for a deeper cheesy flavor.
Storage/Reheating
Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk if needed to loosen the sauce. Avoid high heat to maintain creaminess.
FAQs
How long does it take to make this dish?
It takes about 45 minutes total — roughly 15 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to cook.
What cut of steak should I use?
Sirloin or ribeye works well for steak bites; choose a cut with good marbling for best flavor.
Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes — just follow the package instructions and add an extra minute or two to the cooking time if needed.
Can I make this lighter?
You can substitute half‑and‑half for heavy cream for a lighter sauce, though it will be less rich.
What can I serve with this meal?
A simple green salad or garlic bread pairs nicely to balance the rich pasta.
Can I add vegetables to the dish?
Yes — sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or peas can be added for extra flavor and nutrition.
How do I get the best sear on the steak?
Pat the steak bites dry before searing, and avoid overcrowding the pan so they brown properly.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
You can cook the sauce and tortellini ahead, but sear the steak just before serving for best texture.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Freezing isn’t recommended as cream sauces can separate when thawed.
How do I prevent the sauce from splitting?
Keep heat moderate when melting the cheese into the cream and stir constantly until smooth.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Alfredo Tortellini is the quintessential comfort food dinner — rich, creamy, and full of bold flavor. With juicy seared steak and silky sauce coating every tortellini, it’s a satisfying meal that’s surprisingly easy to make. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this dish delivers decadence with minimal effort.
