Rich, indulgent, and packed with flavor, this Garlic Steak & Cheese-Filled Tortellini Skillet is a dream come true for comfort food lovers. Picture juicy, seared steak bites paired with pillowy cheese-stuffed tortellini, all coated in a creamy garlic herb sauce that clings to every bite. It’s a hearty, one-pan meal that tastes like something from a restaurant, but is surprisingly simple to make at home.

Perfect for a special dinner or when you want something a little extra indulgent, this skillet delivers bold flavors without complicated steps. The creamy garlic sauce enhances the tortellini while the tender steak cubes provide that satisfying bite and savory contrast. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight or you’re hosting friends, this dish promises to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Steak & Cheese-Filled Tortellini Skillet

Decadent yet easy: You get steakhouse flavors and creamy pasta in under an hour.
One-skillet simplicity: Minimal cleanup, maximum flavor.
Rich and satisfying: Between the juicy steak, melty tortellini, and garlicky cream, it’s pure comfort.
Customizable: Swap the cheese tortellini for spinach or try adding mushrooms or spinach to the sauce.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving in, having the right tools makes all the difference:

Cast Iron Skillet or Heavy Pan: Essential for achieving that deep, flavorful sear on your steak.
Tongs: Handy for flipping steak pieces quickly without overcooking.
Large Pot: Used to boil your tortellini until just tender.
Garlic Press (optional): To extract maximum flavor and convenience.
Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: For stirring the sauce gently without scraping your skillet.

Having these tools prepped ensures your cooking process flows smoothly and efficiently. Once everything is laid out, the dish comes together beautifully in just one skillet, with flavors melding perfectly from start to finish.

Ingredients for the Garlic Steak & Cheese-Filled Tortellini Skillet

Steak (sirloin or ribeye): Provides rich, meaty bites that contrast perfectly with the creamy pasta.
Cheese-filled tortellini: The creamy, cheesy filling adds texture and indulgence to the dish.
Garlic cloves: Fresh garlic builds the foundation of the savory cream sauce.
Heavy cream: Forms the luscious base of the garlic sauce, giving it that irresistible richness.
Parmesan cheese: Adds depth and saltiness to the cream sauce, helping it thicken and cling to the pasta.
Butter: Used to sauté the garlic and steak, adding flavor and richness.
Olive oil: Helps achieve a golden crust on the steak and balances the richness of butter.
Fresh parsley or chives: Adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness at the end.
Salt and pepper: Enhances every element in the skillet.
Red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a touch of heat if you want a little kick.

How To Make the Garlic Steak & Cheese-Filled Tortellini Skillet

Step 1: Sear the Steak

Season the steak cubes with salt and pepper. Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat with olive oil and butter. Once hot, sear the steak in batches to get a beautiful crust, about 2–3 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Tortellini

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook the tortellini just until al dente (according to package instructions). Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Cream Sauce

In the same skillet used for the steak, reduce the heat to medium. Add a bit more butter if needed, then sauté the minced garlic until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly. Let it simmer gently for a few minutes.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Blend

Stir in grated Parmesan and red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the cooked tortellini to the sauce, tossing gently to coat. Fold in the seared steak bites, letting them warm through. Sprinkle with chopped parsley or chives.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve hot, directly from the skillet. Spoon onto plates and enjoy the melty, savory, steak-studded deliciousness.

Serving and Storing This Skillet Dinner

Serving: This skillet is best enjoyed fresh off the stove. Pair it with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables to balance out the richness. Crusty bread is also a great companion for mopping up any leftover creamy garlic sauce.

Storing: Let leftovers cool to room temperature before transferring them to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce. Avoid microwaving for too long, as the steak can overcook and become chewy.