Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Pesto Alfredo Tortellini

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want an impressive yet simple meal. The combination of buttery, seared steak with the creamy, herby tortellini creates a luxurious dish that's hearty and crowd-pleasing. It’s easy to customize and comes together quickly with minimal prep. Plus, it feels fancy without requiring complicated techniques.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized pieces

• Olive oil

• Butter

• Fresh garlic, minced

• Salt

• Black pepper

• Cheese tortellini (fresh or refrigerated)

• Heavy cream

• Pesto sauce

• Parmesan cheese, grated

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

2. Season steak bites with salt and pepper.

3. Sear the steak bites in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan, and cook until browned on all sides. Remove from skillet and set aside.

4. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add butter and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant.

5. Return steak bites to the skillet, tossing them in the garlic butter until fully coated. Keep warm.

6. Meanwhile, cook the tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

7. In another pan, combine heavy cream and pesto sauce over medium heat. Stir and cook until slightly thickened.

8. Add the cooked tortellini and grated Parmesan to the pesto Alfredo sauce, tossing gently to coat.

9. Plate the creamy pesto Alfredo tortellini and top with garlic butter steak bites.

10. Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Swap sirloin with ribeye, filet mignon, or even chicken for a different protein.

• Use store-bought Alfredo sauce for a quicker version.

• Add sautéed spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to the tortellini for extra flavor and nutrition.

• For a spicier kick, sprinkle red pepper flakes into the garlic butter.

• Try different types of tortellini like spinach and ricotta for a twist.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm the steak and tortellini gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk if the sauce has thickened too much.
Avoid microwaving for too long as it can make the steak rubbery.

FAQs

What type of steak is best for steak bites?

Sirloin steak is a popular choice for steak bites because it’s tender, flavorful, and relatively affordable.

Can I use frozen tortellini?

Yes, you can use frozen tortellini. Just cook it according to the package instructions before adding it to the sauce.

How do I make the steak bites extra juicy?

Make sure your pan is hot before adding the steak, and don’t overcrowd the pan. Sear in batches if necessary.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prep the components ahead, but it’s best served fresh for the best texture and flavor.

What’s a good substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a little butter as a substitute.

How do I prevent the garlic from burning?

Lower the heat when you add the garlic and stir constantly. Garlic cooks very quickly and can become bitter if burnt.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli would make excellent additions.

What’s the best pesto to use?

Homemade pesto offers the freshest flavor, but a high-quality store-bought pesto works just fine.

How can I make this meal more keto-friendly?

Use a low-carb pasta alternative or serve the steak bites with roasted vegetables instead of tortellini.

Is this recipe good for meal prep?

It’s great for meal prep, but keep the steak and tortellini separate and reheat gently to preserve the best texture.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Pesto Alfredo Tortellini is a meal that checks all the boxes: it’s rich, hearty, and packed with flavor. With simple ingredients and a straightforward cooking process, it’s perfect for weeknights or special occasions. Whether you stick to the classic version or explore the suggested variations, this dish is bound to become a favorite at your dinner table.