Description
Warm, rich, and irresistibly satisfying, this Savory Garlic Butter Beef and Spinach Tortellini is the perfect one-skillet solution for an easy dinner or comfort food craving. With tender cheese-filled tortellini, savory ground beef, fresh spinach, and a luscious garlic butter sauce, this dish is both hearty and packed with flavor. Ideal for those hunting for quick dinner ideas, cozy comfort meals, or versatile food ideas that are ready in under 30 minutes, it ticks all the boxes for a reliable, easy recipe to add to your weekly rotation. Whether you’re meal-prepping or feeding a family, this is your go-to for dinner ideas that are as indulgent as they are simple.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound ground beef (85% lean preferred)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
4 cloves garlic, minced
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 (9-ounce) package cheese tortellini (fresh or refrigerated)
2 cups fresh baby spinach, roughly chopped
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
1/2 cup low-sodium beef broth (or water)
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Cook until browned, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
2. Reduce heat to medium. Add minced garlic and butter. Stir for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
3. If required, cook tortellini separately according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
4. Add cooked or fresh tortellini to the skillet. Pour in beef broth. Stir gently and simmer, covered, for 5–7 minutes until pasta is tender.
5. Add chopped spinach. Stir and cook uncovered for 1–2 minutes until wilted.
6. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot with extra Parmesan and parsley on top.
Notes
Use fresh tortellini for best texture, but frozen works with added simmer time.
Add a splash of cream or cream cheese at the end for a creamier twist.
Avoid overcooking the spinach to keep its color and texture bright.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: easy recipe, comfort food, tortellini dinner, quick meals, one-skillet meals, pasta ideas, weeknight dinner