Garlic Butter Beef and Spinach Tortellini Recipe – Quick & Creamy

Garlic Butter Beef and Spinach Tortellini is one of those dishes that swoops in like a dinner-time hero when you’re exhausted, the kids are hangry, and the thought of doing 37 steps to get food on the table makes you want to cry into a bag of tortilla chips. It’s savory, buttery, and downright comforting—all wrapped up in tender cheese tortellini and tossed with juicy ground beef and vibrant spinach.

Whether it’s Monday chaos or you’re hosting a casual get-together, this pasta meal fits the bill. The best part? You only need 30 minutes, a few pantry staples, and a big skillet. Plus, the garlic butter sauce practically demands a glass of red wine and a seat on the couch. Ready for dinner to be something you actually look forward to? Let’s dig into this Garlic Butter Beef and Spinach Tortellini recipe.

Table of Contents

What is Garlic Butter Beef and Spinach Tortellini?

Garlic Butter Beef and Spinach Tortellini is like the cozy sweater of weeknight dinners—warm, soft, and so comforting. It’s a skillet pasta dish made with cheesy tortellini, browned ground beef, baby spinach, and a buttery, garlicky sauce that clings to every bite. Think of it as a mash-up between a cheesy beef pasta and something you’d get at a casual Italian trattoria—but you made it yourself, in less time than it takes to scroll through Instagram reels for dinner ideas.

The ingredients are straightforward (no wild goose chases at the grocery store), and it’s a real crowd-pleaser, even for picky eaters who usually push green things to the side. Plus, it’s all made in under 30 minutes, so you can enjoy it even on the busiest weeknights.

Reasons to Try Garlic Butter Beef and Spinach Tortellini

There are about a hundred reasons to love Garlic Butter Beef and Spinach Tortellini, but here are the big hitters: First, it’s incredibly fast. We’re talking from stovetop to table in 30 minutes. Second, it’s made in one skillet (yes, ONE), which means fewer dishes and less kitchen chaos. Third, the combo of cheesy pasta, garlicky beef, and buttery spinach is just plain addictive. If your weeknight dinners are stuck in a rut, this is the tasty way out.

Fourth, it uses everyday ingredients—nothing fancy, nothing fussy. If you’ve got ground beef, cheese tortellini, and spinach in the fridge, you’re already halfway there. Finally, it’s flexible. Want it spicier? Add more red pepper flakes. Need to sneak in extra veggies? Toss in mushrooms or chopped zucchini. It’s forgiving, easy, and oh-so-good.

Ingredients Needed to Make Garlic Butter Beef and Spinach Tortellini

Here’s what you’ll need to make this creamy, garlicky, beefy tortellini dish:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, but we like a little kick)
• 1 package (20 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions to Make Garlic Butter Beef and Spinach Tortellini (Step by Step)

Cook the Tortellini

First things first—bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s rolling, add in your tortellini and cook according to the package instructions, usually 3 to 5 minutes. When they float to the top and look plump, they’re ready. Before draining, scoop out about a cup of the pasta water (you’ll thank me later). Drain the rest and set aside.

Brown the Beef

While your tortellini bubbles away, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in the ground beef and break it apart with your spatula as it cooks. Let it sizzle and get those golden-brown bits—that’s where the flavor hides. It should take about 6-7 minutes to brown fully.

Season the Beef

Once browned, add the Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir everything together so the meat gets cozy with the spices. This is when the dish starts smelling like something straight out of a rustic Italian kitchen.

Add the Garlic

Next up, add in the minced garlic. Stir it for about 1 minute—just enough to get it fragrant but not burnt. Burnt garlic is the fastest way to ruin the vibe (and the dish).

Pour in the Broth

Now, add the beef broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Want a little extra sauciness? This is where that reserved pasta water comes in. Add a splash (or two) to loosen things up and help the sauce coat the pasta later.

Add Butter and Spinach

Drop in the butter and let it melt into the sauce. Then, stir in the fresh spinach. It might look like a lot at first, but it wilts quickly. Give it a couple of minutes, stirring gently until it’s soft and blended into the mix.

Combine Tortellini with Sauce

Toss the cooked tortellini into the skillet with the beef and spinach. Stir it all together gently—nobody likes a broken tortellini! Make sure everything is evenly coated with that luscious, buttery garlic sauce.

Add Parmesan and Parsley

Finally, sprinkle in the grated Parmesan and chopped parsley. Stir everything again so the cheese melts into the sauce and gives it that creamy, salty finish. Top with a little more Parmesan if you’re feeling extra (which, let’s be real, you are).

Want to mix things up? Check out our Cracked Garlic Steak Tortellini for another flavor-packed tortellini option. And if you’re looking for a lighter, summery twist, our Zesty Italian Pasta Salad makes a great side or next-day lunch.

What to Serve with Garlic Butter Beef and Spinach Tortellini

This dish is hearty enough to stand alone, but if you’re building out a meal (or feeding a small army), a few simple sides go a long way. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness beautifully. Garlic bread? Always a yes. If you’re looking for a fun pairing, try our Rainbow Orzo Salad or Grinder Salad for something crunchy and refreshing. And if your sweet tooth hits after dinner, our No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Lasagna is a dreamy, fuss-free dessert.

Key Tips for Making Garlic Butter Beef and Spinach Tortellini

Keep these tips in your apron pocket: 1) Don’t overcook the tortellini—3-5 minutes is usually perfect. Mushy pasta is a crime against carbs. 2) Use freshly grated Parmesan if you can—it melts better and tastes way richer. 3) Save the pasta water! Just a little splash makes the sauce creamier without extra butter or cream. 4) Want a leaner option? Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. 5) Need to sneak in more veggies? Mushrooms, zucchini, or even kale will blend in nicely. 6) Keep your skillet large. Everything comes together in one pan, so give it room to breathe. 7) Finish with a sprinkle of chili flakes or lemon zest for a pop of flavor if your taste buds want something bright.

Storage and Reheating Tips for Garlic Butter Beef and Spinach Tortellini

If you have leftovers (honestly, it’s rare), they store beautifully. Pop any extras into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. To reheat, place in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of water or beef broth to loosen up the sauce. Stir gently until warmed through. Avoid the microwave if possible—it can make the tortellini rubbery. If you must nuke it, cover and heat in short bursts with a bit of added moisture. Want to freeze it? You can, but tortellini tends to soften in the freezer, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days. Pro tip: make a double batch and pack the leftovers for lunch. You’ll be the envy of the break room.

FAQs

Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes! Just cook it according to package instructions before adding it in.

Can I make this vegetarian?
Totally. Skip the beef and use sautéed mushrooms or white beans. Swap beef broth with veggie broth.

Is it spicy?
Only a little, thanks to red pepper flakes—but you can skip or amp them up.

What’s the best cheese for this?
Parmesan works great, but feel free to add mozzarella or Pecorino Romano if you’re feeling fancy.

Can I use dried tortellini?
You can, but it takes longer to cook and isn’t as tender. Stick with refrigerated for best texture.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Butter Beef and Spinach Tortellini is your weeknight secret weapon. It’s easy, hearty, comforting, and packs so much flavor with minimal fuss. It’s the kind of dish that makes everyone at the table go quiet for a moment because they’re too busy shoveling it in—and honestly, that’s the highest compliment. Whether you’re feeding your family or just yourself, this pasta recipe delivers big-time comfort and flavor without demanding a culinary degree or three hours of your life. Want more ideas like this? Browse our Best Marry Me Chicken Pasta or Quick and Creamy Spinach Pasta for other quick, dreamy dinners. Save this one—you’ll want it on repeat.

Visit our Pinterest for regular slow cooker recipe updates, or join our Facebook discussions where cooking fans exchange their favorite hearty meal ideas.

Print