If you’ve ever craved the comfort of cheesy pasta paired with the bold richness of steakhouse flavors, this recipe is for you. These Garlic Roasted Creamy Cheddar Steak Bites with Cheese Tortellini bring together juicy seared steak, tender tortellini, and a luscious roasted garlic cheddar cream sauce—all in just 30 minutes. It’s the ultimate one-pan comfort food that feels indulgent yet approachable, perfect for weeknight dinners or even a cozy date night at home.
This skillet meal is all about balance: the hearty, savory notes of beef, the creamy richness of sharp cheddar, and the mellow sweetness of roasted garlic. The tortellini soak up every drop of sauce, creating a dish that’s bold, cheesy, and completely satisfying.
🛒 Ingredients
12 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
1.25 lb sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into bite-sized pieces
Salt & black pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon garlic powder
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 head roasted garlic (or 6 cloves, roasted and mashed)
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup beef broth
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Tortellini
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. - Sear the Steak
Pat steak bites dry and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add steak bites in a single layer and sear for 1–2 minutes per side until browned. Remove from skillet and set aside. - Build the Garlic Cream Base
In the same skillet, melt butter. Stir in roasted garlic, mashing it gently into the butter until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and beef broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer for 2–3 minutes. - Whisk in the Cheddar
Reduce heat to low and slowly whisk in shredded cheddar until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Stir in Italian seasoning. - Combine Everything
Add the cooked tortellini and seared steak back into the skillet. Toss well until everything is coated in the garlic-cheddar cream sauce. - Finish and Serve
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra cheddar if desired. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.
⏱ Recipe Timeline
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
🌟 Tips & Variations
Steak choice: Ribeye adds richness, while sirloin is leaner but still flavorful. You can even try flank steak for a more budget-friendly option.
Roasting garlic: Wrap a whole garlic head in foil with a drizzle of olive oil and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 35–40 minutes until caramelized and buttery.
Extra cheesy: Mix sharp cheddar with mozzarella or Parmesan for extra gooey texture and depth.
Add vegetables: Spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes would make excellent additions to the sauce.
Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne for a kick of heat.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
This dish is rich and satisfying on its own, but you can round out the meal with:
A crisp Caesar salad or arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette.
Garlic bread or crusty baguette to soak up the sauce.
A glass of bold red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec for a steakhouse-style dinner at home.
🥡 Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Not recommended, as the cream sauce may separate when thawed.
Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of cream or milk to restore creaminess.
🧮 Nutrition (per serving, approx.)
Calories: ~620 kcal
Protein: 34 g
Fat: 38 g
Carbohydrates: 40 g
Fiber: 2 g
Sugar: 3 g
Bold, cheesy, and packed with steakhouse flavor, this Garlic Roasted Creamy Cheddar Steak Tortellini is the ultimate indulgence. Whether you’re serving it on a busy weeknight or as a comforting weekend treat, this skillet pasta is sure to impress and satisfy every craving. 🥩🧄🧀🍝
