Go Back
One-Pan Cowboy Butter Tortellini Steak Bites served in a skillet

One-Pan Cowboy Butter Tortellini Steak Bites

A quick and delicious meal combining juicy steak and cheesy tortellini in a rich, buttery sauce, perfect for busy weeknights.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 550
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Steak Bites
  • 1.5 lbs sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into bite-sized cubes
  • 1 tsp Cajun seasoning (or to taste)
  • 0.5 tsp smoked paprika
  • 0.5 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt & black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Cowboy Butter Sauce
  • 6 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 0.5 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 each Juice of 1 lemon
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
For the Tortellini
  • 12 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or refrigerated)
  • 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 0.5 cup reserved pasta water Reserve this after cooking tortellini

Method
 

Cook the Tortellini
  1. 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.
Prepare the Steak Bites
  1. Pat the steak pieces dry with paper towels. Season with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
  2. 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.
Make the Cowboy Butter Sauce
  1. Reduce heat to medium. Melt butter in the same skillet. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant (about 1 minute).
  2. Stir in red pepper flakes, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Mix in parsley and chives.
Combine Everything
  1. Return the cooked tortellini and steak bites to the skillet. Toss until everything’s coated in the cowboy butter sauce.
  2. Add reserved pasta water as needed for a silky texture. Stir in Parmesan cheese until it melts and becomes creamy.
Serve
  1. Plate the dish hot. Garnish with extra Parmesan, freshly chopped parsley, and a sprinkle of Cajun seasoning. Serve immediately.

Notes

Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container or freeze for up to a month. Reheat on the stove with a splash of water or broth to keep things creamy.