Let me tell you about my absolute favorite weeknight dish—Garlic Steak Tortellini! It’s a flavor explosion that combines tender steak, aromatic garlic, and those delightful little pasta pockets, all tossed together for a meal that’s both hearty and satisfying. The best part? You can whip it up in just 35 minutes! It quickly became a family favorite around my dinner table, and I can’t help but smile every time I serve it. Trust me, once you try this dish, you’ll want to add it to your regular rotation—it’s that good!
Ingredients List
- 8 oz tortellini (you can use cheese or spinach-filled for extra flavor!)
- 1 lb steak, sliced (I love using flank steak, but any tender cut works wonders)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced (feel free to adjust this based on your love for garlic—trust me, it’s heavenly!)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for that rich flavor and perfect sear on the steak)
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated is best for a real flavor boost)
- Salt, to taste (I always recommend starting with a pinch and adjusting as you go)
- Pepper, to taste (freshly cracked black pepper adds a nice kick!)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for that pop of color and freshness on top)
How to Prepare Garlic Steak Tortellini
Step 1: Cook the Tortellini
First things first, let’s get that tortellini cooking! Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil—this is crucial for perfectly cooked pasta. Once the water’s bubbling away, add in the 8 oz of tortellini and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 3-5 minutes. You want them al dente, so keep an eye on the clock! When they’re done, drain them and set aside, but don’t rinse—let that lovely starch cling to them!
Step 2: Prepare the Steak
Now, let’s move on to the star of the show—our steak! Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the sliced 1 lb steak. Let it cook undisturbed for about 3-4 minutes until it’s beautifully browned on one side. Flip the steak and cook for another 2-3 minutes for medium-rare, but feel free to adjust the time based on your preference. Remember, we want it tender and juicy!
Step 3: Add Garlic
Here comes the aromatic goodness! Toss in the 4 cloves of minced garlic and stir it all together. This is where timing is key—cook the garlic for just about 1 minute until it’s fragrant. You don’t want it to burn, or it’ll turn bitter. Trust me, the smell will have you drooling!
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Okay, it’s time to bring it all together! Gently add the cooked tortellini to the skillet with the steak and garlic mix. Toss everything together until the tortellini is coated in that delicious garlic oil and steak juices. Make sure it’s all combined beautifully; this is where the magic happens!
Step 5: Season and Serve
Now for the finishing touches! Season your dish with salt and pepper to taste. Don’t be shy—this is where you can really elevate the flavors. Finally, sprinkle on that 1/4 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and toss in the chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve it hot, and watch your family dive in with delight! Enjoy every savory bite of your Garlic Steak Tortellini!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights!
- Rich, savory flavors that combine the best of steak and garlic.
- Versatile! Swap in your favorite pasta or steak cuts based on what you have on hand.
- Hearty and satisfying, this dish will keep you feeling full and happy.
- Can be made in just 35 minutes from start to finish—who doesn’t love that?
- Impressive enough for dinner guests, yet simple enough for a casual meal.
- Customizable! Add veggies like spinach or bell peppers for an extra nutritional boost.
Tips for Success
To make your Garlic Steak Tortellini truly shine, here are some expert tips that I’ve learned over the years. Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom can elevate your dish to the next level!
- Don’t Overcook the Steak: Pay close attention when cooking your steak! Overcooking can lead to a tough texture. Use a meat thermometer if you have one; aim for 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing to keep all those juicy flavors locked in.
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: Whenever possible, opt for fresh garlic and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. The difference in flavor is incredible and makes your dish taste gourmet!
- Adjust Garlic to Your Taste: If garlic is your jam, feel free to add more than the suggested 4 cloves. You can also roast the garlic beforehand for a mellower flavor—it’s simply divine!
- Don’t Skip the Starch: When cooking the tortellini, remember not to rinse them after draining. Those lovely starches help the sauce cling to the pasta, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor!
- Experiment with Add-ins: This dish is super versatile! Try tossing in some fresh spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for an extra pop of color and nutrition. You could also add a splash of balsamic vinegar for a tangy twist.
- Season Gradually: Start with a little salt and pepper, and taste as you go. It’s easier to add more than to fix an overly salty dish!
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed hot and fresh. If you have to wait, keep it warm on low heat, but be cautious not to overcook the steak further.
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re ready to impress! Enjoy cooking and savor every delightful bite of your Garlic Steak Tortellini!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made this delicious Garlic Steak Tortellini, and now you have some leftovers? No worries! Storing them properly will keep those flavors intact for your next meal.
To store, simply let the dish cool down to room temperature. Then, transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to seal it well—no one wants a fridge that smells like last week’s dinner!
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, the best way to reheat them is in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or a drizzle of olive oil to help revive that wonderful garlic flavor and prevent sticking. Stir occasionally for about 5-7 minutes until everything is heated through. You might even want to sprinkle a little extra Parmesan on top for good measure!
If you’re in a hurry, you can also microwave it. Just place the portion in a microwave-safe bowl, cover it with a damp paper towel (this keeps it from drying out!), and zap it for about 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. Keep an eye on it, so it doesn’t overheat!
And remember, while the flavors will still be tasty, the texture of the tortellini might change a bit after reheating. But trust me, it’ll still be a delightful meal that’s quick and satisfying!
Nutritional Information Section
Now, let’s talk numbers! Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional values for one serving of this Garlic Steak Tortellini. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients you use, but this should give you a good idea:
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Cholesterol: 70mg
This dish is not only delicious but also packs a punch in terms of protein, making it a satisfying meal option. Just remember, these values are estimates, so feel free to adjust based on your ingredient choices and portion sizes. Enjoy every bite, guilt-free!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen tortellini for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen tortellini works perfectly and is super convenient. Just cook them according to the package instructions, and you’ll be good to go!
What type of steak is best for Garlic Steak Tortellini?
I recommend using flank steak or sirloin for this dish. They’re tender and cook quickly, making them ideal for a speedy meal. But honestly, any cut you love will work!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prep the ingredients in advance, but I suggest cooking it fresh for the best flavor and texture. If you have leftovers, they store well in the fridge for about 3 days!
Is Garlic Steak Tortellini good for meal prep?
Yes! It’s great for meal prep. Just portion out servings into airtight containers, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready to go for the week!
What can I add to Garlic Steak Tortellini for extra veggies?
Ooh, great question! You can add fresh spinach, diced bell peppers, or even roasted zucchini for a colorful and nutritious boost. Just toss them in when you combine the tortellini and steak!
Garlic Steak Tortellini: 5 Steps to Flavorful Bliss
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A delicious dish of garlic steak tossed with tortellini.
Ingredients
- 8 oz tortellini
- 1 lb steak, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Cook tortellini according to package instructions.
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add sliced steak and cook until browned.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Combine cooked tortellini with the steak and garlic mix.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and parsley before serving.
Notes
- Use your preferred type of steak.
- Adjust garlic quantity based on your taste.
- Can substitute tortellini with any pasta.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Garlic Steak Tortellini