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Garlic Butter Beef and Spinach Tortellini


  • Author: Emily
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings (as a main dish) or 8 servings (as a side) 1x

Description

This Garlic Butter Beef and Spinach Tortellini is a creamy, flavorful dish featuring cheese-filled tortellini, savory beef, and a rich garlic butter sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner, this recipe comes together in under 30 minutes for a satisfying meal the whole family will love.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 32 ounces chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch (or substitute with flour)
  • 1 (16-ounce) package frozen cheese tortellini
  • 4 tablespoons butter (salted for extra flavor)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 teaspoons dried basil
  • 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)
  • Fresh basil chiffonade (for garnish, optional)
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Tortellini

  1. In a large pot, bring 2 ½ cups of broth to a boil over medium heat.
  2. Add the frozen cheese tortellini, stirring occasionally.
  3. Cook until the tortellini float to the surface (about 3-4 minutes).
  4. Drain the tortellini and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining 1 ½ cups of broth with 2 tablespoons cornstarch until fully dissolved.
  2. In a non-stick skillet, melt 4 tablespoons butter over medium-high heat until foamy.
  3. Add minced garlic and dried basil, stirring constantly for about 2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Cook the Beef and Spinach

  1. In the same skillet, add ground beef and cook until browned.
  2. Drain excess grease and add chopped spinach to the pan.
  3. Stir for 1-2 minutes until the spinach wilts.

Step 4: Combine Everything

  1. Pour the broth-cornstarch mixture into the skillet with the beef and spinach.
  2. Bring to a gentle boil, stirring continuously, until the sauce thickens (about 2 minutes).
  3. Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly.

Step 5: Serve & Garnish

  1. Transfer the tortellini to a serving dish.
  2. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil.
  3. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

  • Tortellini: Fresh or dried tortellini can be used with adjusted cooking times. Fresh tortellini cooks in 2-3 minutes, while dried takes 10-11 minutes.
  • Broth: If using low-sodium broth, adjust seasoning accordingly.
  • Cornstarch Substitute: Flour can be used, but you may need to cook the sauce for a few extra minutes to achieve the right consistency.
  • Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
  • Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of broth for best texture
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Pasta
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 680mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg