Garlic Butter Beef and Spinach Tortellini Recipe – Quick & Creamy
Garlic Butter Beef and Spinach Tortellini is a savory and creamy pasta dish made with tender cheese tortellini, seasoned ground beef, fresh spinach, and a rich garlic butter sauce—perfect for a quick yet indulgent weeknight dinner.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Italian-Inspired
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 package (20 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook tortellini according to package instructions, usually 3–5 minutes. Drain and reserve 1 cup of pasta water.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook for 6–7 minutes, breaking it apart until browned and golden.
3. Stir in Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix well to coat the beef in the spices.
4. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute, just until fragrant.
5. Pour in beef broth and let the mixture simmer. Optionally add reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if desired.
6. Stir in unsalted butter and allow it to melt, then add fresh spinach. Cook until spinach is wilted and well combined.
7. Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet. Gently toss everything to coat the pasta in the sauce.
8. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the dish and stir to combine. Top with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
Reserve pasta water helps to thicken and bind the sauce—use it as needed.
Add more red pepper flakes if you prefer extra heat, or omit for a milder version.
Ground turkey or Italian sausage can be substituted for ground beef.
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
Serve with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.