Name: Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Alfredo Tortellini
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs Steak bites (Trimmed and patted dry); 3 tablespoons Butter (Divided, room temperature if possible); 3 cloves Garlic (Minced); to taste Salt; to taste Pepper; 20 oz Cheese tortellini (1 package); 2 cups Heavy cream; 1.5 cups Grated Parmesan cheese

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Creamy, juicy, and incredibly satisfying, Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Alfredo Tortellini is a weeknight hero that feels like a special-occasion meal. Imagine tender seared steak bites tossed with garlic butter and piled onto pillowy cheese tortellini smothered in a rich Parmesan Alfredo — comfort food at its finest. Fun fact: Alfredo sauce was originally invented in Rome as a simple pasta dish to celebrate a honeymoon, so combining it with steak feels delightfully indulgent and celebratory.

This recipe is special because it delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal fuss. It’s quick to prepare, family-friendly, and perfect for busy nights when you want something impressive without hours in the kitchen. If you’ve loved other creamy pasta recipes on the blog, try this one next — it’s as comforting as our classic Parmesan Creamy Pasta but heartier thanks to the steak. For a similar twist, check out this version: Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Alfredo Pasta. I can’t wait for you to try it — grab your skillet and let’s get cooking!

What is Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Alfredo Tortellini?

What’s in a name? This one tells the whole delicious story: bite-sized pieces of steak, garlic butter for that irresistible sear and aroma, and ultra-creamy Alfredo-coated tortellini to soak up every drop of sauce. How did it get this name — pure honesty or a very hungry cook? Maybe both. Who doesn’t love food that literally describes itself? Is it romantic to say “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach”? Absolutely — and luckily, this dish gives everyone a good chance at that very old saying.

Think of it as a cozy mash-up of steakhouse flavors and Italian comfort — simple, indulgent, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Go on, try it and see why people fall in love at first bite.

Why You’ll Love This

You’ll fall for this recipe for three big reasons. First, the main highlight is the contrast of textures and flavors: caramelized, garlicky steak bites against ultra-creamy Alfredo tortellini creates a perfect balance of savory richness and tender pasta. Second, making this at home saves money compared to ordering a steak-and-pasta combo at a restaurant — you get generous portions and premium flavor without the premium bill. Third, the flavorful toppings and simple ingredients — butter, garlic, Parmesan, and cream — transform pantry staples into something luxurious.

This dish is also incredibly versatile; swap the steak for chicken or mushrooms for a vegetarian twist. If you enjoy our other comfort-forward recipes, don’t miss this take on steak and pasta. Ready to make it tonight? You’ll be glad you did.

How to Make

Quick Overview

This recipe is straightforward and fast: sear the steak bites quickly for a caramelized exterior, boil the tortellini, and finish everything in a silky Parmesan Alfredo sauce. The standout element is the creamy sauce that clings to every tortellini, while the garlic butter adds an extra layer of savory richness. Total time is about 25–30 minutes — perfect for busy weeknights.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15–20 minutes
Total time: 25–30 minutes

Here’s a helpful guide to get you from start to finish smoothly.

Ingredients

1 1/2 lbs steak bites, trimmed and patted dry
3 tablespoons butter, divided (room temperature if possible)
3 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 (20 oz) package cheese tortellini
2 cups heavy cream
1 1/2 cups grated Parmesan cheese

Directions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt the butter (use about 1 tablespoon to start). Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant — don’t let it burn. Add the steak bites in a single layer and sear for 2–3 minutes on each side, or until browned and cooked to your liking. Season with salt and pepper while cooking. Remove the steak bites from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
In the same skillet (wipe clean if needed), melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and cook until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened, about 3–4 minutes. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
Add the cooked tortellini to the Alfredo sauce, tossing gently to coat each piece well. Plate the creamy tortellini and top with the garlic butter steak bites. Drizzle any leftover garlic butter from the skillet over the steak for an extra flavor boost. Serve immediately and enjoy.

Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Alfredo Tortellini

What to Serve With

A simple mixed green salad with a lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness
Steamed or roasted asparagus or broccoli for a bright, crisp side
Crusty garlic bread or a warm baguette to soak up extra Alfredo sauce
A light Pinot Noir or a crisp Chardonnay if you’re pairing wine
For a non-alcoholic option, try sparkling water with a twist of lemon or iced tea

Top Tips for Perfecting

Pat the steak bites very dry before searing for the best browning and a nice crust.
Use freshly grated Parmesan for a smoother sauce; pre-grated can be grainy.
Don’t overcook the tortellini — aim for al dente so it holds up in the sauce.
If your sauce is too thick, thin with a splash of the reserved pasta water or a little extra cream.
Let the skillet get hot before adding steak for proper searing; avoid crowding the pan to prevent steaming.
Substitute chicken or mushrooms if you want a budget-friendly variation or a vegetarian option.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The sauce will thicken in the fridge; that’s normal.
Freezing: This dish is best fresh, but you can freeze cooked tortellini separately for up to 1 month. Steak texture may change when frozen and reheated.
Reheating: Gently reheat on the stove over low heat with a splash of cream or milk to restore sauce creaminess. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between, and add a little liquid if needed. Avoid high heat to prevent the sauce from separating.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of steak for this recipe?
Yes. Sirloin, ribeye, or flank steak cut into bite-sized pieces all work well. Adjust searing time for thicker pieces.

Is there a lighter version of the Alfredo sauce?
You can use half-and-half or a mix of milk and light cream, but the sauce will be thinner and less rich. Reduce heat and stir constantly to avoid curdling.

Can I make this ahead of time?
You can cook the steak and tortellini separately and store them chilled. Reheat together gently just before serving and finish with a quick sauce refresh.

What if my sauce becomes grainy or separates?
Stir in a tablespoon of cold butter off the heat to bring it back together, or add a splash of warm cream and whisk vigorously over low heat.

How do I get the best sear on the steak bites?
Use a hot skillet, don’t overcrowd the pan, and make sure the steak pieces are dry. Give each side 2–3 minutes without moving for a good crust.

Conclusion

This Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Alfredo Tortellini recipe is a winner when you want something rich, comforting, and quick to prepare. It’s easy enough for busy weeknights, indulgent enough for date nights, and flexible for family meals. If you’re looking for inspiration or want to compare similar takes and variations, take a look at this full recipe post: Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Alfredo Tortellini and for another delicious riff, check out this related twist: Garlic Butter Steak with Parmesan Alfredo – Bad Batch Baking. Share it with friends and family — I promise you’ll hear compliments all around.