Garlic Steak Tortellini with Garlic Herb Wine Sauce
Highlighted under: Cozy Meals | Warm Dinners
I absolutely love preparing this Garlic Steak Tortellini with Garlic Herb Wine Sauce! The combination of tender steak and pillowy tortellini, all enveloped in a rich garlic herb sauce, creates a dish that feels both elegant and comforting. With minimal prep time and a few fresh ingredients, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering with friends. Each bite delivers a burst of flavor, making it hard to resist going back for more. Let's dive into this mouthwatering meal together!
From the very first time I tasted garlic-infused sauces, I knew I had to recreate that magic in my own kitchen. When I combined succulent steak with tortellini, it was a game changer. The burst of flavor from the garlic, combined with the creaminess of the sauce, truly elevates the dish, making it feel gourmet.
I love how this recipe allows the quality of the ingredients to shine. Using fresh herbs and a good-quality wine is crucial to achieving that rich depth of flavor. Plus, if you have any sauce left over, it pairs wonderfully with crusty bread for dipping!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- The richness of garlic enhances every bite of steak and tortellini.
- Fresh herbs bring a vibrant flavor that elevates the dish.
- Quick to prepare, making it ideal for any weeknight dinner.
Perfecting the Steak
Choosing the right cut of steak is crucial for this dish. Sirloin provides a great balance of flavor and tenderness, while ribeye can offer additional richness due to its marbling. When slicing the steak, aim for thin strips against the grain to ensure maximum tenderness with each bite. For optimal browning, ensure the skillet is preheated before adding the steak; this helps in achieving that desirable golden crust.
As you sear the steak, be cautious of the cooking time. Overcooking can lead to tough meat. The ideal is a nice browning on the outside while keeping the inside juicy. If you're unsure, use an instant-read thermometer; 130°F to 135°F will yield a perfect medium-rare. Remember, the steak will continue to cook slightly after being removed from the heat, so I recommend taking it off the skillet just before it reaches your desired doneness.
Crafting the Garlic Herb Wine Sauce
The garlic in this recipe is not just for flavor; it adds a wonderful aroma and depth to the dish. When sautéing the garlic, be careful not to burn it as this can impart a bitter taste. Cook it just until it's fragrant, about 30 seconds. Following this, deglazing the pan with white wine not only adds acidity but also lifts the flavorful browned bits from the skillet, enhancing the sauce's complexity.
Incorporating heavy cream transforms the sauce into a luxurious coating for the tortellini and steak. When adding the cream, keep the heat at medium-low to prevent the sauce from boiling rapidly, which can cause it to separate. For an extra touch, consider finishing the dish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors. This balance of richness and acidity elevates the entire dish.
Ingredients
Gather your ingredients to get started on this delicious dish:
Ingredients
- 8 oz tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 1 lb steak (sirloin or ribeye), sliced
- 4 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup white wine
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese, for serving
Now that you have everything ready, let’s move on to the cooking process!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create a delicious Garlic Steak Tortellini with Garlic Herb Wine Sauce:
Cook the Tortellini
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Sear the Steak
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced steak, season with salt and pepper, and sear until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce
In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the white wine, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any browned bits, and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
Combine and Serve
Stir in the heavy cream, fresh herbs, and the cooked tortellini. Add the steak back to the skillet and toss to combine. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through. Serve topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Enjoy your delightful dish of Garlic Steak Tortellini with a glass of your favorite wine!
Pro Tips
- For added flavor, consider marinating the steak in garlic and herbs a few hours before cooking. This will enhance the taste even more!
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers, this dish stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Reheating gently in a skillet over low heat is recommended to prevent overcooking the steak. You can add a splash of cream or a bit of broth to bring back its saucy consistency and prevent it from drying out.
If you plan to make this recipe in advance, consider preparing the sauce and cooking the tortellini, but skip reheating the steak until you're ready to serve. This keeps the steak juicy and fresh, enhancing the overall flavor when combined just before eating.
Variations and Enhancements
While the classic garlic herb flavor is a crowd-pleaser, don't hesitate to experiment with the herbs used in this recipe. For an Italian flair, try adding fresh thyme or oregano. If you enjoy a touch of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can elevate the spice levels without overwhelming the dish. You can also incorporate vegetables, like spinach or mushrooms, into the sauce for added nutrition and texture.
For an alternative protein source, grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp can seamlessly replace the steak while still providing a satisfying meal. Vegetarian options like zucchini noodles or sautéed bell peppers can replace the tortellini for a lighter version, catering to various dietary preferences without compromising on flavor.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute tortellini with any pasta of your choice, but cooking times may vary.
→ Is there a vegetarian option for the sauce?
Absolutely! You can make the sauce with vegetable broth instead of wine, and skip the steak or use mushrooms as a substitute.
→ What type of wine should I use?
A dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, works best for this recipe.
→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it's best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce in advance and reheat it when ready to serve.
Garlic Steak Tortellini with Garlic Herb Wine Sauce
I absolutely love preparing this Garlic Steak Tortellini with Garlic Herb Wine Sauce! The combination of tender steak and pillowy tortellini, all enveloped in a rich garlic herb sauce, creates a dish that feels both elegant and comforting. With minimal prep time and a few fresh ingredients, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering with friends. Each bite delivers a burst of flavor, making it hard to resist going back for more. Let's dive into this mouthwatering meal together!
Created by: Kyle
Recipe Type: Cozy Meals | Warm Dinners
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 8 oz tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 1 lb steak (sirloin or ribeye), sliced
- 4 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup white wine
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese, for serving
How-To Steps
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced steak, season with salt and pepper, and sear until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the white wine, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any browned bits, and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
Stir in the heavy cream, fresh herbs, and the cooked tortellini. Add the steak back to the skillet and toss to combine. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through. Serve topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Extra Tips
- For added flavor, consider marinating the steak in garlic and herbs a few hours before cooking. This will enhance the taste even more!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 34g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 20g