Why Make This Recipe

One-Pan Cowboy Butter Tortellini Steak Bites is a delightful and hearty meal that brings together the bold flavors of steak and the comforting texture of cheese tortellini. This dish is not only quick to prepare but also ensures minimal cleanup since everything cooks in one pan. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner, this recipe satisfies cravings and impresses guests.

How to Make One-Pan Cowboy Butter Tortellini Steak Bites

Ingredients:

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:

Cook the Tortellini
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the tortellini according to the package directions until tender but still firm to the bite. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside. Cooking the pasta first ensures it’s ready to soak up the rich cowboy butter sauce once the steak is seared.
Prepare the Steak Bites
Pat the steak pieces dry with paper towels. Season the steak with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak bites for 2–3 minutes per side until browned and cooked to your preferred level of doneness. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside to rest.
Make the Cowboy Butter Sauce
Reduce heat to medium. Melt butter in the same skillet used for the steak. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in red pepper flakes, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Add parsley and chives, mixing well.
Combine Everything
Return the cooked tortellini and steak bites to the skillet. Toss until coated in the cowboy butter sauce. Add reserved pasta water as needed to create a silky, smooth sauce. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
Serve
Plate the dish while hot. Garnish with extra Parmesan, freshly chopped parsley, and a sprinkle of Cajun seasoning for color and spice. Serve immediately.

How to Serve One-Pan Cowboy Butter Tortellini Steak Bites

Serve the Cowboy Butter Tortellini Steak Bites hot from the skillet, allowing everyone to enjoy the rich and buttery flavors. Pair with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A refreshing drink like iced tea or lemonade also complements this dish perfectly.

How to Store One-Pan Cowboy Butter Tortellini Steak Bites

To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, use a skillet over medium heat or the microwave until warmed through.

Tips to Make One-Pan Cowboy Butter Tortellini Steak Bites

Ensure the steak is dry before seasoning to achieve a good sear.
Adjust the Cajun seasoning according to your spice preference.
To enhance the flavors, consider marinating the steak in a bit of Worcestershire sauce for 30 minutes before cooking.

Variation

You can swap the cheese tortellini for spinach or mushroom tortellini for a different flavor. Additionally, adding vegetables like bell peppers or spinach during the cooking process can increase the nutritional value.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different cut of steak?
Yes, feel free to use any steak cut you prefer, such as tenderloin or flank steak.

2. Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Absolutely! Use mushrooms or a plant-based protein in place of the steak, and replace the butter with olive oil for a vegan option.

3. Can I freeze the leftovers?
It’s best to consume this dish fresh, but if you need to freeze it, make sure to do so without the tortellini, as they may become mushy. Store the steak and sauce separately.

One-Pan Cowboy Butter Tortellini Steak Bites

Print Recipe

A delightful and hearty meal combining bold steak flavors with comforting cheese tortellini, perfect for quick weeknight dinners.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Searing
Cuisine: American
Diet: None

Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the tortellini according to the package directions until tender but still firm to the bite. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Pat the steak pieces dry with paper towels. Season the steak with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak bites for 2–3 minutes per side until browned and cooked to your preferred level of doneness. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside to rest.
Reduce heat to medium. Melt butter in the same skillet used for the steak. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in red pepper flakes, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Add parsley and chives, mixing well.
Return the cooked tortellini and steak bites to the skillet. Toss until coated in the cowboy butter sauce. Add reserved pasta water as needed to create a silky, smooth sauce. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
Plate the dish while hot. Garnish with extra Parmesan, freshly chopped parsley, and a sprinkle of Cajun seasoning for color and spice. Serve immediately.

Notes

Ensure the steak is dry before seasoning for a good sear. Adjust the Cajun seasoning to your spice preference. You can swap the cheese tortellini for spinach or mushroom tortellini for varied flavors.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 480
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 780mg
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: one-pan, steak, tortellini, cowboy butter, quick dinner