One-Pan Cowboy Butter Tortellini Steak Bites

This quick, creamy dish combines tender steak bites and cheesy tortellini enveloped in a rich cowboy butter sauce, all cooked in one pan for easy cleanup.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 20

Total Time 30

Course Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 550 kcal

Ingredients

For the Cowboy Butter Sauce

6 tbsp unsalted butter Use a good quality butter for rich flavor.
4 cloves garlic, minced Freshly minced garlic enhances the flavor.
½ tsp red pepper flakes Optional, adjust based on heat preference.
1 tsp Dijon mustard For a tangy taste.
1 Juice of lemon Freshly squeezed for brightness.
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped For garnish.
1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped For garnish.

For the Main Ingredients

1 ½ lbs sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into bite-sized cubes Choose your preferred cut of steak.
1 tsp Cajun seasoning Adjust to taste.
½ tsp smoked paprika For a smoky taste.
½ tsp garlic powder Enhances the garlic flavor.
Salt & black pepper to taste Season to preference.
2 tbsp olive oil For searing the steak.
12 oz cheese tortellini, fresh or refrigerated Choose a cheese-filled variety.
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese For creaminess and flavor.
½ cup reserved pasta water Used for adjusting sauce consistency.

Instructions

Cooking the Tortellini

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the tortellini according to package instructions until tender but still firm. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Preparing the Steak Bites

Pat the steak pieces dry with paper towels. Season with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear steak bites for 2–3 minutes per side until browned. Remove from skillet and let rest.

Making the Cowboy Butter Sauce

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. Mix in parsley and chives.

Combining Everything

Return the cooked tortellini and steak bites to the skillet. Toss until everything's coated in the cowboy butter sauce.
Add reserved pasta water as needed for a silky texture. Stir in Parmesan cheese until it melts and becomes creamy.

Serving the Dish

Plate the dish hot. Garnish with extra Parmesan, freshly chopped parsley, and a sprinkle of Cajun seasoning. Serve immediately.

Notes

Great for meal prep and it stores well in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Freeze for longer storage (up to 3 months). Reheat on stovetop with a splash of water.

Keyword Cowboy Butter, one-pan meal, Quick Dinner, Steak Bites, Tortellini