Cracked Garlic Steak Tortellini in Creamhouse Sauce Bliss – Quick Weeknight Dinner
Short introduction
Cracked Garlic Steak Tortellini in Creamhouse Sauce Bliss is a delightful dish that combines tender steak with creamy tortellini. This comforting meal is perfect for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner. The rich flavors of garlic and steak, mixed with the smooth cream sauce, make it truly irresistible.
Why you’ll love it
This recipe is not only straightforward to prepare but also brings several benefits to the table. You can whip it up in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy schedules. It’s a one-pot meal, which means less cleanup for you. Plus, the combination of cheese tortellini and savory steak ensures that every bite is bursting with flavor, satisfying both adults and kids alike.
Ingredients
- 20 oz cheese tortellini (Fresh or refrigerated varieties yield the best texture and taste.)
- 1 lb steak (sirloin or ribeye) (Sirloin is leaner; ribeye is more tender.)
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Garlic powder
- Smoked paprika
- 2 tbsp olive oil (Essential for searing the steak.)
- 4 tbsp butter (Creates a creamy sauce base.)
- 5 cloves garlic, minced (Adds aromatic richness.)
- 1 cup heavy cream (Contributes a velvety smoothness.)
- 3/4 cup whole milk (Balances the richness.)
- 1 1/4 cups parmesan, shredded or freshly grated (Brings a savory flavor.)
- Parsley, chopped (optional) (Brightens the dish.)
- Red pepper flakes (optional) (For a spicy kick.)
- Cracked black pepper (optional garnish) (Elevates the flavor.)
Substitutions & key variations
You can make some substitutions based on your preferences or dietary needs. For a lighter option, use chicken or turkey instead of beef. You can also swap cheese tortellini with spinach or whole wheat pasta for a healthier twist. For a cream-free version, use broth and a cornstarch slurry for a lighter sauce. Additionally, adding veggies like spinach or roasted red peppers can enhance the nutritional value of the dish.
Step-by-step
Step 1: Prepare the ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Mince the garlic, chop the parsley, and grate the parmesan cheese.
Step 2: Cook the tortellini
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to package instructions, usually about 3-5 minutes until they float to the top. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the steak
Season the steak with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika on both sides. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the steak and sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side for medium-rare. Remove from the skillet and let it rest.
Step 4: Make the sauce
In the same skillet, add butter and let it melt. Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and whole milk, stirring to combine. Gradually add the parmesan cheese while stirring until it melts into a smooth sauce.
Step 5: Combine ingredients
Slice the steak into bite-sized pieces. Add the cooked tortellini to the cream sauce, then add the steak. Toss everything together until it is well coated. Adjust seasoning with extra salt and pepper if needed.
Success tips
- Ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding the steak; this helps achieve a nice sear.
- Don’t overcook the steak; a medium-rare finish keeps it tender and juicy.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, add a touch more milk or cream to reach your desired consistency.
How to serve
To serve, plate a generous portion of the creamy tortellini and steak mixture. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top for a fresh touch, and add red pepper flakes if you want a spicy kick. Serve it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad to round out the meal.
Storage & reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce. Stir gently until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen tortellini for this recipe?
Yes, frozen tortellini is a great alternative. Just cook them according to package instructions.
2. What can I substitute for heavy cream?
For a lighter sauce, you can use half-and-half or even whole milk, but the sauce will be less thick and creamy.
3. How do I know when the steak is cooked to my liking?
Use a meat thermometer: 130-135°F for medium-rare, 140-145°F for medium.
4. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the steak and add more vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini in the sauce.
5. What wine pairs well with this dish?
A medium-bodied red wine, like a Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon, complements the richness of the steak and cream sauce beautifully.
Nutrition notes / equivalents
This dish offers a balanced combination of protein from the steak and tortellini, along with calcium and fats from the cream and cheese. For each serving, approximately: 600 calories, 30g protein, 45g carbs, and 35g fat.
Conclusion + CTA
Cracked Garlic Steak Tortellini in Creamhouse Sauce Bliss is an easy and delectable meal that will surely become a family favorite. Try making this dish tonight, and enjoy the creamy goodness! Don’t forget to share your experiences and adjustments in the comments below!
Links to related recipes
- Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta
- Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
- One-Pan Chicken Alfredo Pasta
Enjoy your cooking adventure, and savor every bite of this rich and comforting meal!
Cracked Garlic Steak Tortellini in Creamhouse Sauce Bliss
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 20 oz cheese tortellini Fresh or refrigerated varieties yield the best texture and taste.
- 1 lb steak (sirloin or ribeye) Sirloin is leaner; ribeye is more tender.
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- to taste Garlic powder
- to taste Smoked paprika
- 2 tbsp olive oil Essential for searing the steak.
- 4 tbsp butter Creates a creamy sauce base.
- 5 cloves garlic, minced Adds aromatic richness.
- 1 cup heavy cream Contributes a velvety smoothness.
- ¾ cup whole milk Balances the richness.
- 1 ¼ cups parmesan, shredded or freshly grated Brings a savory flavor.
- Parsley, chopped (optional) Brightens the dish.
- Red pepper flakes (optional) For a spicy kick.
- Cracked black pepper (optional garnish) Elevates the flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- Start by gathering all your ingredients. Mince the garlic, chop the parsley, and grate the parmesan cheese.
Cooking Tortellini
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to package instructions, usually about 3-5 minutes until they float to the top. Drain and set aside.
Cooking Steak
- Season the steak with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika on both sides. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Once hot, add the steak and sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side for medium-rare. Remove from the skillet and let it rest.
Making the Sauce
- In the same skillet, add butter and let it melt.
- Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and whole milk, stirring to combine.
- Gradually add the parmesan cheese while stirring until it melts into a smooth sauce.
Combining Ingredients
- Slice the steak into bite-sized pieces.
- Add the cooked tortellini to the cream sauce, then add the steak. Toss everything together until it is well coated.
- Adjust seasoning with extra salt and pepper if needed.