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Tortellini Steak Bites with Cowboy Butter Sauce Recipe

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4 from 11 reviews

This Tortellini Steak Bites recipe combines tender cubes of sirloin or ribeye steak with cheesy tortellini, all coated in a rich and flavorful cowboy butter sauce. Infused with Cajun seasoning, garlic, and fresh herbs, this quick and satisfying dish delivers a perfect balance of spice, creaminess, and savory goodness—all ready in just 35 minutes, ideal for a comforting weeknight dinner.

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Steak Bites

  • 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

Cowboy Butter Sauce

  • 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

Pasta

  • 12 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or refrigerated)
  • ½ cup reserved pasta water
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.

Notes

  • For a spicier dish, increase the red pepper flakes or Cajun seasoning.
  • Use fresh tortellini for a softer texture or refrigerated for convenience.
  • Letting the steak rest after cooking helps keep it juicy.
  • Fresh herbs brighten the flavor; substitute parsley with cilantro if preferred.
  • Reserve pasta water gradually to avoid making the sauce too thin.
  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://yourdailycook.com/tortellini-steak-bites-with-cowboy-butter-sauce-recipe/