Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Alfredo Tortellini
If you’re craving a restaurant-quality meal at home, this Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Alfredo Tortellini is the perfect dish. Tender, juicy steak bites seared in garlic butter and paired with cheesy tortellini smothered in a rich Alfredo sauce—it’s comfort food at its finest. Best of all, this recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or impressing guests.
Steak and pasta have long been a beloved combination, with Italian-American cuisine popularizing creamy pasta dishes like Alfredo. This recipe elevates the classic by adding perfectly cooked steak bites for extra protein and flavor. Plus, using store-bought tortellini keeps prep time minimal without sacrificing taste.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Ready in 30 minutes or less.
- Flavor-Packed: Garlic butter steak and creamy Alfredo sauce create an irresistible combo.
- Versatile: Swap ingredients based on what you have (see substitutions below).
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for date nights, family dinners, or meal prep.
Recipe: Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Alfredo Tortellini
Ingredients
- 1 lb sirloin steak (or ribeye, cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp butter (divided)
- 4 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 9 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the tortellini: Boil according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
- Sear the steak: Heat olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add steak bites, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until browned. Remove from pan.
- Make the garlic butter sauce: In the same skillet, melt remaining butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Prepare the Alfredo sauce: Pour in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, stirring until smooth and slightly thickened (about 3-4 minutes).
- Combine everything: Return steak bites to the skillet, add cooked tortellini, and toss to coat in the sauce. Garnish with parsley and serve immediately.
Time & Servings
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
| Calories | Carbs | Fat | Protein |
|---|---|---|---|
| 620 kcal | 32g | 42g | 38g |
Ingredient Substitutions
| Ingredient | Substitution |
|---|---|
| Sirloin steak | Ribeye, strip steak, or flank steak |
| Heavy cream | Half-and-half or whole milk (less creamy) |
| Cheese tortellini | Fettuccine, penne, or ravioli |
Cooking Tips
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook steak bites in batches for even browning.
- Use fresh garlic: Jarred garlic won’t give the same depth of flavor.
- Adjust sauce thickness: Add a splash of pasta water if the Alfredo is too thick.
- Rest the steak: Let steak bites sit for 2-3 minutes before serving for juicier meat.
FAQs
Can I use frozen steak bites?
Yes, but thaw them first and pat dry to ensure proper searing. Frozen steak may release excess water, preventing a good crust.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream to revive the sauce.
Can I make this dish ahead?
While best served fresh, you can prep components separately (cook steak, boil pasta, make sauce) and combine just before serving.
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