Garlic Steak Tortellini: 7 Deliciously Easy Wins

If you’ve been craving a meal that tastes like a five-star dinner without requiring hours in the kitchen, this Garlic Steak Tortellini is about to become your new weeknight hero. I’m talking tender steak, pillowy cheese tortellini, and a velvety cream sauce that will have everyone at the table asking, “When are we having this again?”

As a busy home cook myself, I know the joy of finding a recipe that feels indulgent but doesn’t hijack your entire evening. And this one? Oh, it cooks up faster than most people can agree on what to watch on Netflix. When I first created this Cracked Garlic Steak Tortellini in Creamhouse Sauce, it was during one of those chaotic weeks when the laundry was winning and takeout was calling my name. One bite of that creamy garlic sauce, though, and the stress practically melted off my shoulders.

Let’s dive in and get you cooking something comforting, cozy, and wildly satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Steak Tortellini

Here’s the thing—some recipes are simple. Some are comforting. Some are wildly flavorful. And every now and then, you stumble across one that checks all the boxes.

This dish is exactly that.

  • A quick dinner that feels luxurious. Perfect for weeknights or when unexpected company stops by.
  • Creamy but balanced. The Creamhouse Sauce hugs every piece of tortellini in rich deliciousness.
  • Steak + pasta = undeniable magic. Especially when garlic and parmesan join the party.
  • Family-friendly. Even picky eaters tend to love cheesy tortellini… especially when they’re swimming in a creamy garlic blanket.
  • Customizable. Swap steak for chicken, add spinach, try mushrooms—this recipe plays well with whatever you’ve got.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you need to create Cracked Garlic Steak Tortellini in Creamhouse Sauce, broken down so it’s easy to shop and prepare.

Tortellini

  • 20 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or refrigerated)

Steak

  • 1 lb steak (sirloin or ribeye)
    • Sirloin for a leaner bite
    • Ribeye for a melt-in-your-mouth experience

Seasoning

  • Salt
  • Black pepper
  • Garlic powder
  • Smoked paprika

Creamhouse Sauce

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 4 tbsp butter
  • 5 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 3/4 cup whole milk
  • 1 1/4 cups shredded parmesan (freshly grated is best)

Optional Garnishes

  • Chopped parsley
  • Cracked black pepper
  • Red pepper flakes

How to Make Cracked Garlic Steak Tortellini in Creamhouse Sauce

Let’s take this step-by-step—no stress, no fuss, just easy, flavorful cooking.

Step 1: Cook the Tortellini

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 20 oz cheese tortellini and cook for about 3–5 minutes, or until perfectly al dente. Drain and set aside.

Tip: Toss the tortellini lightly with olive oil so they don’t stick while they’re waiting for the sauce.

Step 2: Season and Sear the Steak

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Season your sirloin or ribeye generously with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.

When the pan is hot and shimmering, add the steak bites. Sear them for 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally until browned on all sides.

Set them aside—you’ll add them back later to soak up that dreamy sauce.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

In the same skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Your kitchen should start smelling like a cozy hug from someone who loves you dearly.

Step 4: Build the Creamhouse Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and whole milk, stirring well to combine with the garlicky butter. Let it simmer for 3–4 minutes to thicken slightly.

This is where the magic happens—don’t rush it.

Step 5: Melt in the Cheese

Slowly add the parmesan, stirring continuously until melted and silky. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper if needed.

At this point, try not to eat the sauce straight from the pan. (No shame if you do. We’ve all been there.)

Step 6: Combine Everything

Add the cooked tortellini and seared steak back into the skillet. Gently toss it all in the creamy sauce until every piece is coated.

Let it warm through for about 2 minutes.

Step 7: Garnish & Serve

Finish with chopped parsley, cracked black pepper, or red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.

Serve immediately and prepare for compliments.

Helpful Tips for the BEST Garlic Steak Tortellini

  • Don’t overcook the steak. A good sear keeps it juicy. Overcooking will make it tough.
  • Use freshly grated parmesan. Pre-shredded cheese sometimes clumps and doesn’t melt as smoothly.
  • If your sauce gets too thick: Add a splash of milk to loosen it up. Think of it as adjusting your comfort level—literally.
  • Want more veggies? Spinach, broccoli florets, or mushrooms work beautifully with this dish.
  • Cook the pasta first. This keeps the entire recipe fast and helps the sauce come together seamlessly.

This recipe once saved me during a week when I had deadlines, grocery bags still sitting in the hallway, and a kid asking, “What’s for dinner?” on repeat. This meal turned the whole night around—and I know it’ll do that for you, too.

Creamy Garlic Steak Tortellini with tender seared steak bites and cheese tortellini coated in a rich garlic parmesan sauce.
This Garlic Steak Tortellini is loaded with tender steak and creamy, cheesy pasta for the ultimate comfort meal.

FAQs About Cracked Garlic Steak Tortellini in Creamhouse Sauce

Can I substitute the steak with something else?

Absolutely! Many readers swap steak for chicken breast, chicken thighs, or even shrimp. They all work great in this Cracked Garlic Steak Tortellini in Creamhouse Sauce.

Can I use frozen tortellini?

Yes—just follow the package instructions. Frozen tortellini tends to cook a minute or two longer.

How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat slowly with a splash of milk to revive the sauce.

Can I lighten up the Creamhouse Sauce?

You can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, but the sauce won’t be quite as rich. Still delicious, though!

Can I make this ahead?

You can prep the steak and grate the cheese ahead of time, but for the best texture, cook everything fresh. Tortellini loves to soak up sauce—sometimes a little too much.

Bringing It All Together

This Garlic Steak Tortellini truly captures everything I love about easy, comforting cooking—simple steps, bold flavor, and that warm, homey feeling that fills your kitchen the moment the garlic hits the pan. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, treating yourself after a long day, or cooking to impress someone special, this dish delivers every single time.

The next time your evening feels too busy or too chaotic, remember: a skillet, a handful of everyday ingredients, and this Cracked Garlic Steak Tortellini in Creamhouse Sauce are all you need to turn things around. Dinner doesn’t just get done—it becomes something you’re excited about.

Now go enjoy that creamy, savory bowl of happiness. You deserve it.

Craving More Cozy Comfort Food?

If this creamy skillet dish won your heart, I’ve got a few more delicious recipes you’ll love diving into next. Each one brings that same warm, comforting vibe—perfect for busy nights, family dinners, or whenever you want something truly satisfying.

Let me know if you’d like even more suggestions to match the vibe of your recipe!

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Creamy Garlic Steak Tortellini with tender seared steak bites and cheese tortellini coated in a rich garlic parmesan sauce.

Garlic Steak Tortellini


  • Author: Mounia
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

This Cracked Garlic Steak Tortellini in Creamhouse Sauce is a rich, creamy, and ultra-comforting skillet dinner made with tender seared steak bites, cheese tortellini, and a velvety garlic parmesan sauce. Perfect for busy nights when you want something cozy, hearty, and absolutely delicious.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Tortellini

  • 20 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or refrigerated)

For the Steak

  • 1 lb steak (sirloin or ribeye)

  • Salt

  • Black pepper

  • Garlic powder

  • Smoked paprika

For the Creamhouse Sauce

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

  • 4 tbsp butter

  • 5 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 cup heavy cream

  • 3/4 cup whole milk

  • 1 1/4 cups shredded parmesan (freshly grated preferred)

Optional Garnishes

  • Chopped parsley

  • Cracked black pepper

  • Red pepper flakes


Instructions

  1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add tortellini and cook 3–5 minutes or until al dente. Drain and set aside.

  2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season steak generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.

  3. Sear steak bites for 3–5 minutes until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.

  4. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.

  5. Pour in heavy cream and milk. Simmer 3–4 minutes to thicken.

  6. Add parmesan, stirring until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning.

  7. Return tortellini and steak to the skillet. Toss gently to coat in sauce.

  8. Garnish with parsley, cracked pepper, or red pepper flakes. Serve warm.

Notes

Ribeye gives the most tender, buttery texture, while sirloin is leaner.

If the sauce thickens too much, splash in milk or pasta water to loosen.

Add spinach or mushrooms for extra veggies.

Freshly grated parmesan melts smoother than pre-shredded.

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

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate (about 1/4 of recipe)
  • Calories: 785 kcal
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 720 mg
  • Fat: 48 g
  • Saturated Fat: 24 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 52 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 38 g
  • Cholesterol: 165 mg