Introduction

Cracked Garlic Steak Tortellini in Creamhouse Sauce Bliss is a rich and satisfying dish that combines tender steak, cheesy tortellini, and a luscious garlic cream sauce. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this recipe is quick to prepare but feels indulgently special.

A close-up of a black bowl filled with creamy tortellini pasta and chunks of grilled beef. The dish has two main layers: the bottom layer consists of yellow tortellini with smooth, slightly shiny texture, covered evenly in a thick, beige cream sauce speckled with black pepper and fresh green herbs. The top layer has browned, juicy beef pieces with charred grill marks, scattered throughout with a glossy finish from the sauce. The dish is garnished with finely chopped herbs and cracked black pepper, resting on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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.)

Instructions

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to package instructions, about 3-5 minutes, until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the steak with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Sear the steak for about 3-5 minutes per side until browned to your liking. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, taking care not to burn it.
Step 4: Pour in the heavy cream and whole milk, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
Step 5: Gradually whisk in the parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts smoothly into the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 6: Return the seared steak and cooked tortellini to the skillet. Toss everything together gently for about 2 minutes to combine and heat through.
Step 7: Garnish with chopped parsley, cracked black pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy your creamy, flavorful meal.

Tips & Variations

For an extra tender steak, let it rest for 5 minutes after searing before slicing and adding back to the sauce.
Use fresh tortellini if possible for a lighter texture and better flavor.
Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the sauce for added vegetables and depth.
Substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream and milk mixture for a lighter sauce.
Adjust the amount of garlic based on your preference for a milder or stronger flavor.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream if the sauce has thickened too much. Avoid microwaving directly as this may cause the cream sauce to separate.

How to Serve

A dish with two main layers presented in a white bowl on a white marbled surface. The bottom layer consists of a creamy light beige sauce with a smooth texture, covering the base of the bowl. The top layer has golden-yellow tortellini pasta pieces scattered unevenly, some standing upright while others lay on their sides. On top and mixed among the pasta are medium-sized chunks of browned, seared beef with a glossy surface and visible grill marks. Small black pepper specks and chopped green herbs are sprinkled throughout, adding contrast and texture to the dish. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of tortellini?

Yes, while cheese tortellini is recommended for its texture and flavor, you can substitute with ravioli, gnocchi, or even penne pasta. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

What cut of steak works best for this recipe?

Sirloin is a lean choice that sears well, while ribeye offers more tenderness and flavor due to its marbling. Both work great depending on your preference and budget.