Beef & Parmesan Tortellini in Creamy Sauce is a rich and comforting dish that’s easy to make yet full of flavor. Tender beef-filled tortellini are coated in a luscious, creamy sauce, with Parmesan adding an extra layer of savory depth. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or when you want something indulgent but simple.
Beef & Parmesan Tortellini in Creamy Sauce
Ingredients:
For the Tortellini and Sauce:
- 1 package (about 9 oz) beef-filled tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 lb ground beef (you can also use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 tsp dried Italian seasoning (optional)
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Cook the Tortellini:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook according to the package instructions (usually about 3-5 minutes for fresh or 7-9 minutes for frozen).
- Once done, drain the tortellini, but save a cup of pasta water in case you need to thin the sauce later.
2. Brown the Ground Beef:
- While the tortellini is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces with a spoon or spatula, about 5-7 minutes.
- Once the beef is browned, drain any excess fat, if necessary.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce:
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes, until the onion is softened and the garlic is fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese, then season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning (and red pepper flakes if using). Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the sauce is creamy and well combined.
4. Combine the Tortellini and Sauce:
- Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet with the creamy beef sauce. Gently toss to coat the pasta in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
- Let everything cook together for about 1-2 minutes so the flavors meld.
5. Serve:
- Plate the creamy tortellini and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color.
- Serve immediately, paired with a side of garlic bread or a simple salad if desired.
Tips for Perfection:
- Creaminess: If you want an even richer sauce, you can substitute the whole milk with more heavy cream.
- Beef Substitute: Ground turkey or chicken also works great as a leaner substitute for ground beef. You can even use Italian sausage for more flavor.
- Veggie Boost: Add some spinach or mushrooms for a veggie boost and extra flavor. If using spinach, add it to the pan just before the cream to let it wilt in the sauce.
- Leftovers: This dish keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days, but note that the sauce may thicken over time. If it does, add a little extra milk or cream when reheating to get it back to a creamy consistency.
This Beef & Parmesan Tortellini in Creamy Sauce is a comforting and delicious meal that feels indulgent yet is simple enough for a weeknight dinner. The creamy, cheesy sauce perfectly complements the beef-filled tortellini, making it a hearty and satisfying dish. Let me know how it turns out if you try it!