Garlic Butter Beef and Spinach Tortellini is a quick and comforting meal that brings together tender beef, fresh spinach, and cheesy tortellini all tossed in a buttery garlic sauce. The flavors are simple but really satisfying, making it a great choice for a busy weeknight dinner or whenever you want something tasty without a lot of fuss.
I love how the garlic butter sauce gently coats every bite, adding just the right amount of richness without being too heavy. The beef adds a nice heartiness, while the spinach gives it a fresh pop of color and nutrition. It’s one of those dishes where everything comes together perfectly, and I always feel like I’m getting a little bit of comfort and freshness in the same spoonful.
My favorite way to enjoy this is with a sprinkle of parmesan on top and maybe a little crusty bread on the side to soak up all the buttery garlic goodness. It’s a simple meal that feels like a treat, and I’ve found that everyone who tries it asks for seconds. Plus, it’s quick to make, which means less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying good food with family or friends.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cheese Tortellini: This pasta brings a cheesy center and soft texture that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce. If you can’t find tortellini, cheese ravioli or even gnocchi make nice substitutes.
Ground Beef: I like using lean ground beef for good flavor without too much grease. You can swap it for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Butter & Garlic: Butter creates a rich base while garlic adds that classic punch. For a dairy-free twist, try olive oil instead of butter, and fresh garlic is always best for the strongest flavor.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds color and freshness. Baby spinach is tender and cooks quickly, but you can use kale or swiss chard if you prefer sturdier greens.
Heavy Cream & Parmesan: These make the sauce creamy and cheesy. If you want a lighter sauce, try half-and-half or whole milk, and swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a slightly different taste.
How to Get the Creamy Sauce Just Right?
Making the sauce creamy without it becoming too thin or too thick can be tricky. Here’s what I do:
- After browning the beef, lower the heat before adding butter and garlic to prevent burning.
- Pour in the heavy cream slowly and keep the heat medium-low to gently simmer, stirring often.
- Give the sauce time to thicken—usually 3-4 minutes works well.
- When adding Parmesan, stir continuously so it melts smoothly and avoids clumps.
- Remember, the sauce will thicken a bit more once mixed with the pasta, so it’s okay if it feels a little loose before adding tortellini.
Patience is key here for that perfect rich and velvety texture!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – for boiling the tortellini easily without crowding.
- Large skillet or sauté pan – great for cooking the beef and making the sauce all in one pan.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – lets you stir the sauce gently without scratching the pan.
- Colander – to drain the tortellini quickly and safely.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef with Italian sausage for a spicier, more aromatic dish.
- Add sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy burst that pairs well with creamy sauce.
- Stir in sliced mushrooms for extra umami and a meatier texture.
- Use kale instead of spinach for a heartier green with a slightly bitter flavor.
How to Make Garlic Butter Beef and Spinach Tortellini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 package (9 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1/2 lb ground beef
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (optional)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 25-30 minutes total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing and cooking the ground beef and garlic butter sauce, another 10 minutes cooking the tortellini, and a few minutes combining everything for a warm, creamy finish. It’s perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Tortellini:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook following the package directions until they are just tender (al dente). Drain well and set aside for later.
2. Brown the Beef:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked through. If there’s excess fat, drain it carefully.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
Add the unsalted butter to the skillet with the beef. Once melted, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until you can smell the lovely garlic aroma. Stir in diced tomatoes if you’re using them, and cook for another 2 minutes to soften slightly.
4. Add the Cream and Cheese:
Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken. Then stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
5. Combine and Finish:
Add the fresh spinach leaves and cooked tortellini directly to the skillet. Gently toss everything together and cook for another 2 minutes until the spinach wilts and the tortellini are nicely coated with the sauce. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve immediately, and if you like, sprinkle some extra Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor. Enjoy your creamy, garlicky beef and spinach tortellini!
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini Instead of Refrigerated?
Yes, frozen tortellini works great! Just cook it according to the package instructions, which might take a minute or two longer than refrigerated. No need to thaw beforehand—just add it straight to boiling water.
Can I Substitute Ground Beef with Another Protein?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage are all tasty alternatives. Keep in mind sausages may add extra seasoning, so adjust salt and pepper accordingly.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to keep the sauce creamy.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! Prepare the beef and garlic butter sauce in advance and store separately from the cooked tortellini and spinach. When ready to serve, combine and warm through on the stove for best results.
