Garlic Butter Beef Tortellini Skillet with Spinach and Parmesan
Introduction
Garlic Butter Beef Tortellini Skillet with Spinach and Parmesan is a comforting and easy dish perfect for any night of the week. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, this one-pan meal combines tender tortellini with savory ground beef, fresh spinach, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. It’s not only delicious but also quick to prepare, making it a fantastic choice for busy families or anyone looking for a satisfying dinner.
Why Make This Recipe
There are many reasons to make Garlic Butter Beef Tortellini Skillet. First, it’s a complete meal that mixes protein, veggies, and pasta all in one dish. This recipe is quick and straightforward, saving you time on hectic evenings. Plus, it’s packed with flavor from the garlic and seasoning, ensuring everyone at the table will love it. The creamy, garlicky sauce is simply irresistible, and you can adapt it to include your favorite ingredients!
How to Make Garlic Butter Beef Tortellini Skillet
Ingredients:
- 1 package (20 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Directions:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook for about 6–8 minutes, breaking it apart until browned and cooked through. Drain off any excess grease.
- Add minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the beef. Stir and cook for 1–2 minutes until the garlic is golden and aromatic.
- While the beef mixture is cooking, boil the tortellini in salted water according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Pour the beef broth into the skillet and reduce heat to medium-low. Let it simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to develop.
- Stir in the butter until melted, then add the fresh spinach. Cook for 2–3 minutes, just until the spinach wilts.
- Gently add the cooked tortellini to the skillet. Stir everything together to coat the pasta in the garlic butter sauce.
- Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. Stir to combine until the cheese is melted and everything is evenly mixed.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with extra Parmesan and parsley for a fresh finish.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Beef Tortellini Skillet
Serve this dish hot directly from the skillet. It makes a great main course and pairs wonderfully with a side salad or crispy bread. For an extra touch, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes or more Parmesan on top before serving.
How to Store Garlic Butter Beef Tortellini Skillet
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. You may want to add a splash of beef broth or water to help restore the sauce’s creaminess.
Tips to Make Garlic Butter Beef Tortellini Skillet
- For extra flavor, you can add diced tomatoes or bell peppers while cooking the beef.
- Feel free to swap the spinach for kale or other leafy greens based on your preference.
- If you want a little more kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes.
Variation
You can easily customize this recipe by using different types of pasta or meats, such as Italian sausage or turkey. Adding other vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini can also enhance the dish.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen tortellini instead of refrigerated?
Yes, you can use frozen tortellini. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package for boiling.
2. What can I substitute for ground beef?
You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat for a lighter or vegetarian option.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef and sauce ahead of time. Just cook the tortellini and add it in before serving, so everything stays fresh.
Garlic Butter Beef Tortellini Skillet with Spinach and Parmesan
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A comforting and easy one-pan meal featuring tender tortellini, savory ground beef, fresh spinach, and Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients
- 1 package (20 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook for about 6–8 minutes, breaking it apart until browned and cooked through. Drain off any excess grease.
- Add minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the beef. Stir and cook for 1–2 minutes until the garlic is golden and aromatic.
- While the beef mixture is cooking, boil the tortellini in salted water according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Pour the beef broth into the skillet and reduce heat to medium-low. Let it simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to develop.
- Stir in the butter until melted, then add the fresh spinach. Cook for 2–3 minutes, just until the spinach wilts.
- Gently add the cooked tortellini to the skillet. Stir everything together to coat the pasta in the garlic butter sauce.
- Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. Stir to combine until the cheese is melted and everything is evenly mixed.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with extra Parmesan and parsley for a fresh finish.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Add a splash of beef broth or water when reheating for creaminess.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: tortellini, beef, spinach, one-pan meal, easy dinner, Italian