Garlic Butter Beef and Spinach Tortellini is a simple and tasty dish that combines tender beef with soft, cheesy tortellini and fresh spinach. The garlic butter sauce wraps everything up in a rich, flavorful hug that’s hard to resist. It’s a perfect meal when you want something filling but easy to pull together on a weeknight.
I really love making this because the garlic butter sauce comes together quickly and makes the whole dish feel homemade and special without any fuss. Adding fresh spinach gives it a nice pop of color and a bit of green goodness, which I always appreciate. Plus, the beef adds just the right amount of heartiness to keep everyone happy and satisfied.
My favorite way to enjoy this is with a side of crusty bread to soak up any extra garlic butter sauce. It’s a meal that feels cozy and comforting, and it’s great for both family dinners or when guests drop by. Whenever I make it, I know it’ll disappear fast because everyone loves the mix of flavors and the ease of this dish.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortellini: Cheese tortellini brings creamy cheesy pockets that make this dish special. Feel free to substitute with spinach or mushroom-filled tortellini for variety. You can also use frozen or dried tortellini if refrigerated is unavailable.
Ground Beef: Ground beef adds a hearty flavor and texture. If you prefer, ground turkey or chicken work well, too. For a vegetarian version, swap it with sautéed mushrooms or plant-based crumbles.
Butter & Garlic: Butter gives richness, while garlic adds a fragrant punch. Use unsalted butter to control salt levels. If you don’t have fresh garlic, garlic powder can work—use about 1/2 teaspoon.
Spinach: Fresh spinach gives a mild, bright flavor and lovely green color. Baby spinach works best, but you can substitute with kale or Swiss chard—just cook a bit longer to soften.
Heavy Cream & Parmesan: These make the sauce creamy and cheesy. For a lighter option, use half-and-half or milk with a tablespoon of flour to thicken. For Parmesan, Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano are great alternatives.
How Can I Make the Garlic Butter Sauce Creamy and Smooth?
A creamy sauce is key to tying everything together. Here are some simple tips to get it just right:
- Cook garlic gently in butter on medium heat, so it doesn’t burn and turn bitter.
- Add cream slowly and let it warm without boiling—too high heat can cause curdling.
- Stir in grated Parmesan off the heat or on very low heat; this prevents the cheese from clumping.
- Keep stirring the sauce to combine ingredients evenly and encourage a smooth texture.
- If sauce gets too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – for boiling the tortellini; big enough so pasta cooks evenly without sticking.
- Large skillet or sauté pan – you’ll cook the beef and make the garlic butter sauce here; a nonstick or stainless steel pan works well.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – perfect for breaking up the ground beef and stirring the sauce without scratching your pan.
- Colander – to drain the cooked tortellini easily without losing any pasta.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to measure ingredients like butter, cream, and spices accurately.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef with Italian sausage for an extra spicy, flavorful twist.
- Add sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a sweet and tangy pop.
- Stir in mushrooms or zucchini to increase veggie content and add texture.
- Use fresh basil or thyme instead of spinach for a different herb note that brightens the dish.
Garlic Butter Beef and Spinach Tortellini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 package (9-12 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1/2 lb ground beef
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 25 minutes total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing and cooking the beef and sauce while the tortellini boils. Then, a few minutes to combine everything and let the flavors come together. Quick and satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Tortellini:
Fill a large pot with water, add some salt, and bring it to a boil. Put in the tortellini and cook it until it’s just tender (al dente), following the time on the package. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Brown the Beef:
While the tortellini cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and break it apart with a spatula. Cook until it turns brown and is fully cooked, about 5 to 7 minutes. Season it with salt and pepper. Remove the beef from the skillet and keep it nearby, leaving the juices in the pan.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium, add butter to the same skillet, and let it melt. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until you can smell that lovely garlic aroma.
4. Add Spinach:
Stir in the chopped spinach and cook it until it wilts, which should take 2 to 3 minutes. This adds a fresh touch and a nice color to your dish.
5. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Pour the heavy cream into the pan, and let it simmer gently. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and combines into a smooth, creamy sauce.
6. Combine Everything:
Put the cooked ground beef and tortellini back into the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently so every bite gets coated with that creamy garlic butter sauce.
7. Final Touches:
Add crushed red pepper flakes if you want a little kick, and taste to adjust the salt and pepper as needed. Let it cook for another 2 minutes to heat through and let the flavors blend.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your garlic butter beef and spinach tortellini right away. Sprinkle extra Parmesan or red pepper flakes on top if you like. A side of crusty bread or a fresh salad makes a perfect match!
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini Instead of Refrigerated?
Yes! Frozen tortellini works well too. Just add a couple of extra minutes to the boiling time and be sure to thaw slightly if possible for even cooking.
What Can I Substitute for Ground Beef?
You can swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even Italian sausage. For a vegetarian option, try sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based meat substitute.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or water if the sauce thickens too much.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the sauce and beef ahead, then combine with freshly cooked tortellini when ready to serve for the best texture and flavor.
