Introduction

This One-Pan Cowboy Butter Tortellini Steak Bites recipe is a delicious and hearty meal that combines tender steak, cheese-filled tortellini, and a rich, flavorful butter sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying weekend treat, it comes together easily in just one skillet.

A white plate filled with a layer of yellow tortellini pasta that has a smooth and slightly shiny texture, mixed with bits of brown ground meat and sprinkled with small green herb pieces and tiny red chili flakes. On top of the pasta, there are several pieces of dark brown grilled steak with a charred and juicy surface, covered in a creamy light brown sauce with visible black pepper specks and herbs. The sauce spreads slightly over the pasta and steak, creating a rich, glossy appearance. The whole dish sits on a white marbled textured surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 ½ lbs sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into bite-sized cubes
1 tsp Cajun seasoning (or to taste)
½ tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp garlic powder
Salt & black pepper, to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
6 tbsp unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
1 tsp Dijon mustard
Juice of 1 lemon
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
12 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or refrigerated)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup reserved pasta water

Instructions

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the tortellini according to the package directions until tender but still firm to the bite. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Step 2: Pat the steak pieces dry with paper towels. Season the steak 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 and cooked to your preferred doneness. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside to rest.
Step 3: Reduce heat to medium. Melt butter in the same skillet. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in red pepper flakes, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Add parsley and chives, mixing well.
Step 4: Return the cooked tortellini and steak bites to the skillet. Toss until coated in the cowboy butter sauce. Add reserved pasta water as needed to create a silky, smooth sauce. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
Step 5: Plate the dish while hot. Garnish with extra Parmesan, freshly chopped parsley, and a sprinkle of Cajun seasoning for color and spice. Serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

Use ribeye for extra tenderness and flavor, or sirloin for a leaner option.
Fresh tortellini works best, but refrigerated cheese tortellini is a convenient alternative.
Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to control the heat level.
For a smoky twist, add a splash of smoked paprika or chipotle powder to the sauce.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to preserve the tenderness of the steak and prevent the sauce from separating. Adding a splash of reserved pasta water can help revive the sauce while reheating.

How to Serve

The dish shows a white plate filled with two main layers. The bottom layer is yellow tortellini pasta with a smooth texture, coated in a light brown creamy sauce mixed with small bits of herbs and red chili pieces. The top layer consists of dark brown grilled steak pieces with a charred, slightly crispy texture, drizzled with the same creamy sauce, garnished with finely chopped green herbs scattered around. The plate rests on a white marbled textured surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta instead of tortellini?

Yes, you can substitute tortellini with other small pasta shapes like gnocchi, ravioli, or even penne. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the pasta is cooked al dente.

How do I know when the steak bites are cooked properly?

Sear the steak bites for 2–3 minutes per side for medium-rare to medium. Adjust the time depending on your preferred doneness. Using a meat thermometer can help; aim for 130–135°F (54–57°C) for medium-rare.