Description
This Beef Tortellini Alfredo is a comforting Italian-inspired dish featuring tender cheese tortellini tossed in a rich, creamy Parmesan Alfredo sauce, topped with savory ground beef cooked with aromatic herbs and spices. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a perfect family-friendly meal that combines hearty flavors with a luscious texture.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Beef
- 1 pound ground beef (or thinly sliced steak)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Alfredo Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Tortellini
- 1 (9 oz) package cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
Optional Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Extra Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the Tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the tortellini and set aside.
- Cook the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. Stir in the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Continue cooking for another 3 to 5 minutes until the onions are softened and the beef is fully cooked. Remove the beef mixture from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Alfredo Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, whisking continuously until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Season with nutmeg, salt, and black pepper to taste.
- Combine: Return the cooked tortellini and beef mixture to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Gently toss everything together to coat evenly in the sauce, ensuring the flavors are well combined.
- Serve: Transfer the Beef Tortellini Alfredo to serving plates or bowls. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce with fewer calories.
- Fresh tortellini cooks faster than frozen; adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Nutmeg in Alfredo sauce adds a subtle warmth but can be omitted if preferred.
- For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes while cooking the beef.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
