One-Pan Cowboy Butter Tortellini Steak Bites
This easy one-pan meal combines juicy steak bites, cheesy tortellini, and a rich cowboy butter sauce, making it perfect for quick weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Steak Preparation
- 1.5 lbs sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into bite-sized cubes Alternatively, you can use other cuts of steak.
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning Adjust according to taste.
- 0.5 tsp smoked paprika
- 0.5 tsp garlic powder
- to taste Salt & black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil For searing the steak.
Cowboy Butter Sauce
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter Use fresh for best flavor.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 0.5 tsp red pepper flakes Optional for heat.
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
Pasta
- 12 oz cheese tortellini Fresh or refrigerated.
- 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese For creaminess.
- 0.5 cup reserved pasta water To help adjust the sauce consistency.
Instructions
Cook the Tortellini
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the tortellini according to package directions until tender but still firm to the bite. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Prepare the Steak Bites
- Pat the steak pieces dry with paper towels and season with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak bites for 2–3 minutes per side until browned. Remove from skillet and let rest.
Make the Cowboy Butter Sauce
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and melt butter. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Stir in red pepper flakes, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Mix in parsley and chives.
Combine Everything
- Return the cooked tortellini and steak bites to the skillet, tossing until coated in the sauce. Add reserved pasta water as needed to create a silky sauce.
- Ensure to stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
Finish and Serve
- Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or Cajun seasoning. Plate while hot and garnish with extra Parmesan and parsley.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.