We absolutely love our Steak Tortellini recipe—it’s a hearty twist on classic Italian pasta that pairs juicy steak with pillowy tortellini for a comforting meal. Drawing from Italian traditions we’ve adapted over years of kitchen experiments this dish delivers bold flavors in every bite.
Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight dinner or something to wow guests our recipe keeps things simple yet sophisticated. Join us as we guide you through creating this crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
As we dive into preparing our mouthwatering Steak Tortellini recipe, let’s gather the key ingredients that bring together the bold, savory flavors of tender steak and the comforting chew of cheese-filled tortellini. We organize these by the order of use in the recipe for seamless preparation.
Steak and Protein
- 1 lb flank steak, sliced into thin strips for quick searing and maximum juiciness.
- 9 oz fresh cheese tortellini, cooked al dente to maintain that pillowy texture we love in Italian-inspired dishes.
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 medium onion, diced finely to build a flavorful base.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced for a pungent, aromatic punch that enhances the steak’s richness.
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped to add a vibrant, earthy green element.
Sauce and Seasonings
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained to create a hearty, rustic sauce.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream, for a creamy finish that balances the steak’s boldness.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, freshly shredded to melt smoothly and add a nutty depth.
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (like oregano and basil), combined for authentic, herbaceous notes.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste, ensuring every bite is perfectly seasoned.
This selection of ingredients ensures our Steak Tortellini delivers on both simplicity and sophistication, making it a go-to for any occasion.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients, let’s walk through the steps to create our mouthwatering Steak Tortellini. We’ll ensure each phase delivers bold flavors and perfect textures for an unforgettable meal.
Prep the Steak
First, we pat dry 1 lb of flank steak with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a flavorful sear. Next, we season the steak generously on both sides with salt and pepper, along with a teaspoon of dried Italian herbs for an aromatic Italian twist. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, we heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil until it shimmers, then add the steak and sear for 3-4 minutes per side until it reaches an internal temperature of 130°F for medium-rare, creating a juicy, caramelized exterior that locks in the rich, beefy essence.
Cook the Tortellini
While the steak rests, we bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil, infusing it with a pinch of salt to enhance the 9 oz of fresh cheese tortellini‘s delicate, pillowy texture. We add the tortellini to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions, typically 2-3 minutes, until al dente—tender yet firm to the bite, with a satisfying chew that pairs perfectly with the dish’s hearty components. Finally, we drain the tortellini in a colander, reserving 1/2 cup of the starchy cooking water to help blend flavors later.
Assemble the Dish
With the steak rested for 5 minutes, we slice it thinly against the grain into bite-sized strips, ensuring tender, melt-in-your-mouth pieces. In the same skillet used for the steak, we add 1 diced onion and 2 minced garlic cloves, sautéing over medium heat for 2 minutes until fragrant and golden, releasing their sweet, savory aroma. We then stir in a 14 oz can of diced tomatoes, 1/2 cup of heavy cream, and 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, simmering for 3-4 minutes to create a creamy, vibrant sauce that coats everything in velvety goodness. Gently fold in the sliced steak, cooked tortellini, and 2 cups of fresh spinach, tossing everything together for 1-2 minutes until the spinach wilts and the ingredients meld into a harmonious blend of juicy steak, cheesy pasta, and fresh greens, bursting with Italian-inspired flavors.
Equipment Needed
To prepare our delicious Steak Tortellini recipe with ease, we recommend gathering the essential tools that ensure smooth and efficient cooking. These items help us achieve the perfect sear on the steak, boil the tortellini to al dente perfection, and blend the creamy sauce seamlessly.
Here’s a curated list of the key equipment, organized by the stages of preparation for optimal workflow:
- Skillet or Frying Pan: A large, heavy-bottomed skillet (at least 12 inches) is crucial for searing the flank steak and sautéing aromatics like onion and garlic. We prefer non-stick or cast-iron options for even heat distribution and a flawless sear.
- Large Pot: Essential for boiling the fresh cheese tortellini in salted water. Opt for a 5-quart pot or larger to prevent overflow and ensure the tortellini cooks evenly without sticking.
- Cutting Board and Sharp Knife: A sturdy cutting board paired with a sharp chef’s knife allows us to prep the steak by slicing it after resting and chopping vegetables like garlic and spinach with precision.
- Tongs or Spatula: Use heat-resistant tongs for flipping and handling the steak during searing, or a silicone spatula for stirring the sauce to maintain its creamy texture.
- Colander: A medium-sized colander is necessary for draining the cooked tortellini quickly, preventing it from becoming mushy and ensuring it retains its pillowy consistency.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to our Steak Tortellini’s bold flavors, so we rely on a set of dry and liquid measuring cups along with spoons to portion ingredients like heavy cream and dried Italian herbs.
By having these tools ready, we can transition smoothly from prepping ingredients to executing the steps, making our Steak Tortellini recipe a confident kitchen success.
Make-Ahead Tips
To make our Steak Tortellini recipe even more convenient for busy schedules, we recommend these practical strategies that preserve the dish’s bold flavors and tender textures. By preparing components in advance, we can minimize last-minute effort while ensuring the final meal remains fresh and irresistible.
Preparing Ingredients Ahead
We can start by prepping key elements up to 24 hours in advance to streamline cooking. Begin with the steak: Pat it dry, season generously with salt and pepper, and store it wrapped tightly in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to infuse deeply, making the steak even juicier when seared.
For the tortellini, cook it al dente as per the instructions, then immediately rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Toss with a light drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking, and store in an airtight container in the fridge. This step keeps the pasta’s pillowy softness intact for up to 2 days.
Sauce and Vegetables Preparation
Sauté the onion and garlic ahead of time until fragrant and golden, then cool and refrigerate in a sealed container. For the sauce, combine diced tomatoes, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese in a bowl, stirring well before chilling. This base can be made up to 48 hours in advance, allowing the ingredients to meld for a richer, more harmonious taste.
Add fresh elements like spinach just before serving to maintain its vibrant green color and crisp bite—pre-washing and stemming it the night before keeps prep quick.
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
To help you plan effectively, here’s a quick reference for storage times and methods:
| Component | Make-Ahead Time | Storage Method | Reheating Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seared Steak | Up to 2 days | Refrigerate in an airtight container | Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for 1-2 minutes per side to restore juiciness. |
| Cook Tortellini | Up to 2 days | Refrigerate after oil-tossing | Briefly warm in the sauce to avoid overcooking and keep it al dente. |
| Sauce Base | Up to 48 hours | Refrigerate in a sealed jar | Gently heat in the skillet, stirring until bubbly to enhance creaminess. |
By following these tips, we ensure our Steak Tortellini stays a hearty, Italian-inspired favorite that’s ready to impress with minimal fuss. Always check for freshness before use to guarantee the best results.
Conclusion
We’ve shared this Steak Tortellini recipe to bring bold Italian flavors straight to your kitchen. It’s a versatile dish that balances ease with elegance for any meal.
We’re confident it’ll quickly become one of your go-to favorites, adding a touch of excitement to everyday dining.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Steak Tortellini?
Steak Tortellini is a hearty Italian-inspired dish combining juicy flank steak with pillowy cheese tortellini in a creamy sauce. It’s perfect for quick weeknight meals or impressing guests, blending bold flavors like garlic, tomatoes, and Parmesan for a simple yet sophisticated family favorite.
What ingredients are needed for Steak Tortellini?
You’ll need 1 lb flank steak, 9 oz fresh cheese tortellini, vegetables like onion, garlic, and spinach, plus sauce components such as diced tomatoes, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, dried Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. This selection ensures easy prep and rich flavors for any occasion.
How do I prepare Steak Tortellini step by step?
Start by seasoning and searing the steak to medium-rare, then rest and slice it. Cook tortellini in boiling water until al dente. Sauté onion and garlic, add tomatoes, cream, and cheese to make the sauce. Combine everything with spinach for a flavorful dish ready in about 30 minutes.
What equipment is required for this recipe?
You’ll need a large skillet for searing steak and making sauce, a pot for boiling tortellini, a cutting board and sharp knife for prep, tongs or a spatula for handling ingredients, a colander for draining pasta, and measuring cups/spoons for accuracy. These tools make the process smooth and efficient.
Can I make Steak Tortellini ahead of time?
Yes, prep components up to 24 hours in advance: season and refrigerate the steak, cook and store tortellini, and prepare the sauce base. This helps for busy schedules while keeping flavors fresh. Just reheat gently to maintain tender textures and bold taste.
How should I store and reheat Steak Tortellini?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For reheating, warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or cream to restore creaminess, or use the microwave for 1-2 minutes. Avoid overcooking to preserve the steak’s juiciness and tortellini’s texture.