Garlic Butter Beef and Spinach Tortellini
A delightful weeknight meal featuring cheese tortellini, ground beef, and fresh spinach tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce, perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 9 oz cheese tortellini The star of the dish, these soft and cheesy pockets of goodness add a wonderful texture.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil Adds a healthy fat and enhances the flavors of the beef.
- 1 pound ground beef Juicy and satisfying, it provides the heartiness of the dish.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced Essential for creating that classic Italian flavor.
- 1 tablespoon butter Adds richness to both the beef and the sauce.
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped Offers freshness and nutritional benefits.
- Salt and pepper, to taste Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional) For those who enjoy a bit of heat in their dishes.
- 4 tablespoons butter A key ingredient that gives the sauce its luxurious consistency.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream Helps create a velvety sauce.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese Adds a nutty, salty flavor that complements the dish perfectly.
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional) Adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook the tortellini according to the package instructions until they float to the surface, typically around 3 to 5 minutes. Drain, reserving 1/4 cup of pasta water.
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces (about 5-7 minutes).
- Add minced garlic to the beef and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in 1 tablespoon of butter and the chopped spinach, cooking until the spinach wilts (about 2-3 minutes).
- In a separate pan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Gradually stir in Parmesan cheese and cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Add the cooked tortellini to the beef mixture in the skillet. Toss to combine, then pour garlic butter sauce over and toss again to evenly coat. Adjust sauce consistency with reserved pasta water if necessary.
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
Consider adding a pinch of nutmeg to the garlic butter sauce for enhanced flavor. For extra veggies, sauté cherry tomatoes or bell peppers alongside the spinach. Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for the ground beef.