Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Alfredo Tortellini
Ingredients:
For the Steak Bites:
- 1 ½ lbs steak bites (sirloin, ribeye, or tenderloin), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or to taste)
- 1 teaspoon olive oil (optional, for extra sear)
For the Tortellini:
- 1 (20 oz) package cheese tortellini
- 1 tablespoon salt (for boiling water)
For the Alfredo Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 ½ cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground)
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for extra garlic flavor)
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Extra grated Parmesan cheese
- Crushed red pepper flakes (for a little heat)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Tortellini:
Fill a large pot with water, add 1 tablespoon salt, and bring to a rolling boil. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to package instructions, usually 3–5 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Drain and set aside. Drizzle a small amount of olive oil to prevent sticking if desired. - Prepare the Steak Bites:
While the tortellini cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 3 tablespoons butter and, if using, 1 teaspoon olive oil for extra browning. Once the butter is melted and hot, add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, careful not to burn. - Sear the Steak Bites:
Add the steak bites to the skillet in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure proper searing. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until browned on the outside and cooked to your desired doneness. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper while cooking. Remove the steak bites from the skillet and set aside on a plate, loosely covered with foil to keep warm. - Make the Alfredo Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add 2 tablespoons butter and let it melt completely. Slowly pour in 2 cups heavy cream, stirring constantly. Heat until the cream is warm but not boiling. Gradually whisk in 1 ½ cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt, black pepper, and optional garlic powder. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. - Combine Tortellini with Alfredo Sauce:
Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss gently using a spatula or tongs until all the tortellini is coated evenly with the creamy sauce. Allow the tortellini to simmer in the sauce for 1–2 minutes to absorb the flavors. - Add the Steak Bites:
Return the seared steak bites to the skillet with the tortellini and Alfredo sauce. Gently fold the steak bites into the pasta, ensuring every piece is coated in sauce. Heat together for 1–2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. - Serve the Dish:
Transfer the Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Alfredo Tortellini to a large serving platter or individual plates. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley, extra grated Parmesan, and optional red pepper flakes for a pop of color and flavor. Serve immediately while warm.
Tips & Notes:
- Choosing the Steak: Tender cuts like sirloin or ribeye work best because they cook quickly and remain juicy.
- Cheese Tip: Use freshly grated Parmesan for best results. Pre-grated cheese can contain anti-caking agents that may prevent the sauce from being perfectly smooth.
- Tortellini Tip: Cook tortellini just until al dente, as it will continue cooking slightly when mixed with the hot sauce and steak.
- Make Ahead: You can cook the Alfredo sauce and tortellini ahead of time and reheat gently on the stove. Add steak bites just before serving to maintain their juicy texture.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread for a full, hearty meal.
This Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Alfredo Tortellini is a restaurant-quality meal that’s rich, comforting, and full of flavor. Juicy seared steak bites combined with soft, cheesy tortellini smothered in creamy Alfredo sauce make it perfect for date nights, family dinners, or any time you want a hearty, indulgent meal.