Beef & Parmesan Tortellini in Creamy Sauce: A Comforting Italian-Inspired Dish
Indulge in the rich, comforting flavors of this Beef & Parmesan Tortellini in Creamy Sauce, a dish that combines tender ground beef, cheesy tortellini, and a velvety sauce that will leave you craving more. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that brings the essence of Italian cuisine to your table. The combination of savory beef, aromatic herbs, and creamy Parmesan creates a symphony of flavors that will delight your taste buds.
This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a restaurant-quality meal ready in under 40 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this Beef & Parmesan Tortellini is sure to impress. The creamy sauce, infused with garlic and herbs, coats every bite of the tortellini, making it a truly satisfying meal.
Quick Recipe Highlights
- Flavor Profile: A perfect balance of savory beef, rich Parmesan, and aromatic herbs.
- Texture: Creamy sauce with tender tortellini and juicy ground beef.
- Aroma: Fragrant garlic, onion, and Italian herbs fill your kitchen.
- Visual Appeal: Golden tortellini and beef in a luscious, creamy sauce.
- Skill Level Needed: Beginner-friendly with straightforward steps.
- Special Equipment: Just a large skillet and a pot for boiling tortellini.
Recipe Overview
- Difficulty Level: This recipe is perfect for beginners, with simple techniques and minimal prep work.
- Category: Main dish, pasta, comfort food.
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired with a modern twist.
- Cost: Budget-friendly, using pantry staples and affordable ingredients.
- Season: Ideal for fall and winter, but delicious year-round.
- Occasion: Great for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or casual entertaining.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The Beef & Parmesan Tortellini in Creamy Sauce is a dish that combines convenience with gourmet flavors. The creamy sauce, made with Parmesan, garlic, and herbs, is rich and indulgent, while the tender tortellini and savory beef add heartiness to every bite. This recipe is perfect for those nights when you want something comforting yet easy to prepare.
One of the best things about this dish is its versatility. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables, swap out the beef for ground turkey, or even make it vegetarian by using plant-based meat alternatives. The creamy sauce is so flavorful that it pairs well with a variety of ingredients, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.
Nutritionally, this dish provides a good balance of protein, carbs, and fats. The beef adds a hearty dose of protein, while the tortellini offers satisfying carbs. The creamy sauce, made with milk and Parmesan, adds a touch of richness without being overly heavy. It’s a well-rounded meal that will keep you full and satisfied.
From a social perspective, this dish is a winner. It’s easy to scale up for larger gatherings, and its comforting flavors are universally loved. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet night in, this Beef & Parmesan Tortellini is sure to be a hit.
Finally, this recipe is cost-effective and accessible. Most of the ingredients are pantry staples, and the dish comes together quickly, making it a practical choice for busy households. It’s a great way to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal without breaking the bank.
The Recipe
Beef & Parmesan Tortellini in Creamy Sauce
Serves: 4
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large skillet
- Medium pot
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 package (20 oz) cheese tortellini
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions
- Cook the tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink.
- Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Pour in the beef broth and milk, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Fold in the cooked tortellini, ensuring it’s well-coated in the sauce.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Recipe Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or heavy cream with milk.
- Add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.