Ever tasted a dish that felt like a cozy hug in a bowl?
This One-Pan Cowboy Butter Tortellini Steak Bites recipe is about to become your new favorite, and it’s no wonder it’s gone viral! Quick? ✔️ Creamy? ✔️ One-pan? ✔️ You can whip it up in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a satisfying meal that looks gourmet without all the fuss.
Why make this recipe
Why should you add this scrumptious dish to your meal rotation? Here’s the scoop:
- Easy cleanup! Who loves doing dishes? Not me! With just one pan to deal with, you can enjoy your meal and avoid a mountain of dirty plates.
- Family-friendly deliciousness. Kids and grown-ups alike will rave about these tender steak bites and velvety tortellini. It’s a win-win!
- Flavors that pop! The cowboy butter sauce packs a punch with zesty lemon and fragrant herbs, making every bite a flavor explosion.
Ingredients
You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!
- 1 ½ lbs sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning (or to taste)
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
- 12 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or refrigerated)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup reserved pasta water
Directions
Here’s how to whip up this deliciousness in a few simple steps:
- Cook the tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then cook the tortellini according to the package instructions. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, drain, and set aside.
- Prepare the steak bites: Pat the steak dry and season it with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Heat olive oil over medium-high heat and sear the steak bites for 2–3 minutes per side until brown. Remove from heat and let rest.
- Make the cowboy butter sauce: Reduce heat to medium. Melt the butter in the same skillet, and add the minced garlic, cooking until fragrant. Stir in red pepper flakes, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice, then mix in parsley and chives.
- Combine everything: Return the cooked tortellini and steak bites to the skillet, tossing until everything gets coated in that mouthwatering sauce. Add reserved pasta water for a silky texture and stir in the Parmesan cheese until it’s melty and creamy.
- Serve: Plate up the dish hot, garnishing with extra Parmesan, parsley, and a sprinkle of Cajun seasoning. Enjoy!
How to make One-Pan Cowboy Butter Tortellini Steak Bites (Overview)
Let’s break this down, shall we?
- First, boil some water and cook the tortellini. Super straightforward!
- Next, season and sear your steak bites like a pro, then let them rest.
- After that, make the cowboy butter sauce by melting butter and adding aromatic garlic and zesty lemon.
- Finally, toss it all together and bask in that gooey cheesiness.
Pro tip: Don’t skip toasting the garlic — it makes all the difference!
How to serve One-Pan Cowboy Butter Tortellini Steak Bites
Serve it up family-style, and watch the reactions! The vibrant colors of the herbs, the golden nuggets of steak, and the sleek tortellini create a feast for the eyes. As you dig in, the buttery aroma will wrap around you like a warm blanket, and the creamy texture will make every bite utterly satisfying.
Consider pairing it with a crisp green salad or crusty garlic bread to soak up all that luscious sauce. Yum!
How to store One-Pan Cowboy Butter Tortellini Steak Bites
Wondering how to save the leftovers? This dish keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just store it in an airtight container.
Reheat it gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of water if it feels a bit dry — you want that creamy goodness back!
Tips to make One-Pan Cowboy Butter Tortellini Steak Bites
Here are some quick tricks to ensure your dish shines:
- Timing is key. Don’t overcook your steak — tender bites are the way to go.
- Ingredient swaps? Chicken or shrimp can easily replace steak, perfect for any dietary preferences.
- Feel free to adjust spices according to your heat tolerance — extra Cajun seasoning is never a bad idea!
Variation
Want to customize this recipe? Here are a few suggestions:
- Make it vegetarian: Swap the steak with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables for a tasty twist.
- Add some greens: Toss in spinach or kale right at the end for extra nutrients and a pop of color.
FAQs
Can I use frozen tortellini?
Absolutely! Just follow the package instructions for cooking time.
How do I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare everything and store it separately in the fridge. Cooked tortellini and sauce can be combined right before serving.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, but keep in mind that cheesy pasta can lose its creamy texture when frozen. It’s best enjoyed fresh!
📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!
One-Pan Cowboy Butter Tortellini Steak Bites
Ingredients
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then cook the tortellini according to the package instructions. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, drain, and set aside.
- Pat the steak dry and season it with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Heat olive oil over medium-high heat and sear the steak bites for 2–3 minutes per side until brown.
- Remove from heat and let rest.
- Reduce heat to medium.
- Melt the butter in the same skillet, and add the minced garlic, cooking until fragrant.
- Stir in red pepper flakes, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice, then mix in parsley and chives.
- Return the cooked tortellini and steak bites to the skillet, tossing until everything gets coated in that mouthwatering sauce.
- Add reserved pasta water for a silky texture and stir in the Parmesan cheese until it’s melty and creamy.
- Plate up the dish hot, garnishing with extra Parmesan, parsley, and a sprinkle of Cajun seasoning. Enjoy!