There’s something irresistible about a skillet full of tender cheese tortellini coated in a luscious garlic butter cream sauce, loaded with savory beef, spicy Italian sausage, and fresh spinach. It’s the kind of meal that feels indulgent yet comes together effortlessly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without breaking a sweat. This garlic butter tortellini with creamy sauce is not only hearty and comforting but also adaptable to your tastes, whether you prefer it mild and creamy or with a hint of heat.

This recipe brings restaurant-level flavor right to your kitchen with just one pan, a handful of ingredients, and about 30 minutes of your time. It’s the ultimate comfort food for family dinners, date nights, or when you simply crave something cozy and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Key Benefits

This tortellini dish checks all the boxes for a perfect weeknight dinner. First, it’s incredibly easy to make. One pan means less cleanup, and the steps are simple enough even for beginner cooks. Second, it’s packed with flavor: think creamy, garlicky sauce that clings to pillowy pasta, balanced by the hearty richness of ground beef and the savory spice of Italian sausage. Finally, it’s highly versatile. You can tailor it to your preferences, swapping proteins or adding veggies to suit your family’s tastes.

Suitable For

This recipe is ideal for a wide range of occasions and dietary needs. It’s a lifesaver for busy parents looking for a hearty meal on a tight schedule. It’s great for cozy date nights when you want something impressive but low-stress. Even if you’re new to cooking, you’ll find the process approachable and rewarding. With a few simple substitutions, it can also fit lighter diets or be made vegetarian-friendly.

Ingredients for Garlic Butter Tortellini in Creamy Sauce with Beef, Italian Sausage & Spinach

Core Ingredients

To create this flavorful dish, you’ll need:

• Butter: Forms the base of the sauce and brings a rich, nutty depth when melted.

• Garlic: Four cloves minced to infuse the sauce with warm, aromatic flavor.

• Onion: Adds sweetness and complexity when sautéed.

• Ground beef: Provides hearty, savory richness.

• Italian sausage: Use mild or spicy depending on your preference; it adds a robust, herby flavor.

• Cheese tortellini: Fresh or frozen works beautifully, offering a soft, cheesy bite.

• Heavy cream: Creates the silky, indulgent sauce that ties the dish together.

• Parmesan cheese: For a salty, nutty finish that melts into the sauce.

• Fresh spinach: Brings freshness and a pop of color.

• Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper: To season and balance the flavors.

• Red pepper flakes (optional): For a gentle kick of heat.

Substitutions and Tips

If you don’t have heavy cream, swap in half-and-half for a lighter version, though the sauce will be slightly less thick. Ground turkey or chicken sausage are great alternatives if you’re looking for leaner protein options. For a vegetarian twist, skip the meat entirely and stir in sun-dried tomatoes or sautéed mushrooms for added depth. Gluten-free tortellini are widely available if needed. You can also toss in extra greens like kale or arugula for more color and nutrition.

Best Tortellini for Creamy Garlic Butter Sauce

When it comes to tortellini, both fresh and frozen varieties work well. Fresh tortellini cooks slightly faster and often has a more delicate texture, while frozen tortellini is convenient to keep on hand and doesn’t require defrosting. Cheese-filled tortellini is a classic choice because it complements the rich cream sauce beautifully, but meat-stuffed tortellini will also shine if you prefer a double protein hit. If you’re feeling ambitious, homemade tortellini takes this dish to the next level, though it’s not necessary for weeknight ease.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Must-Have Tools

• Large skillet or sauté pan: Essential for cooking the entire dish in one place.

• Wooden spoon: Great for stirring without scratching your pan.

• Sharp knife and cutting board: For prepping the aromatics and spinach.

Nice-to-Have Tools

• Garlic press: To make mincing garlic even faster.

• Microplane grater: For finely grating fresh Parmesan cheese.

• Tongs: Helpful for tossing the tortellini gently in the sauce.

How to Make Garlic Butter Tortellini in Creamy Sauce with Beef, Italian Sausage & Spinach

This recipe comes together in one skillet, and the process is straightforward enough for even beginner cooks. With each step, you’re building layers of flavor that create a rich, creamy sauce your tortellini will soak up beautifully. Here’s how to do it.

Step 1: Cook the Meat

Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat and melting one tablespoon of butter. Once the butter is bubbling gently, add the ground beef and Italian sausage, breaking them apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until both meats are browned and cooked through, about 6 to 8 minutes. Don’t rush this step—browning the meat adds depth and a slightly caramelized flavor to the sauce.

When the meat is fully cooked, drain off any excess fat to keep the sauce from becoming greasy. Transfer the cooked beef and sausage to a plate and set it aside for now.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of butter. Toss in the diced onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until it turns soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic brown, as that can make it taste bitter. This aromatic base sets the stage for the creamy sauce.

Step 3: Simmer the Tortellini in Sauce

Add the cheese tortellini straight to the skillet with the onion and garlic. Pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle in the Italian seasoning. Stir gently to combine, then bring the mixture to a soft simmer.

Cook the tortellini according to the package instructions, usually about 3 to 5 minutes for fresh tortellini or a little longer for frozen. Stir occasionally to keep the pasta from sticking and to ensure it cooks evenly in the creamy sauce.

Step 4: Combine the Ingredients and Finish the Dish

Once the tortellini is tender, return the cooked beef and sausage to the skillet. Stir everything together so the meat is evenly distributed throughout the pasta. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until it melts into the sauce, thickening it slightly.

Finally, add the fresh spinach and cook for just a minute or two until it wilts. Taste the sauce and adjust with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Your kitchen will smell incredible by this point, and the creamy, savory sauce will be clinging to every piece of pasta.

Tips for Success

• Don’t overcook the tortellini. It should be tender but still have a slight bite to avoid becoming mushy.

• Use freshly grated Parmesan rather than pre-shredded for the smoothest melting into the sauce.

• For an even creamier finish, stir in a dollop of mascarpone cheese right before serving.

• To add extra flavor, sauté a handful of sliced mushrooms along with the onion and garlic.

How to Store Garlic Butter Tortellini in Creamy Sauce

At Room Temperature

This dish is best served hot and fresh, but if needed, you can keep it at room temperature for up to two hours before refrigerating.

In the Refrigerator

Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce if it has thickened.

Freezing Tips

This dish can also be frozen for up to one month. Let it cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm gently on the stovetop with a bit of cream to restore the sauce’s texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can cook the meat and aromatics ahead, then store them separately. When ready to serve, reheat and finish the dish by cooking the tortellini in the sauce.

What type of sausage works best?

Italian sausage is the classic choice, but you can use spicy or mild depending on your preference. Turkey or chicken sausage also works well for a lighter option.

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, just be sure to thaw it and squeeze out excess moisture before adding it to the skillet to prevent the sauce from becoming watery.

How do I make it vegetarian?

Skip the meat and load up on vegetables like mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or zucchini. The creamy sauce and cheese tortellini will still deliver plenty of flavor.

What sides go well with this dish?

A crisp green salad or garlic bread makes an excellent pairing, balancing the richness of the pasta.

Related Recipes

If you loved this Garlic Butter Tortellini, you might enjoy these comforting pasta dishes too:

• Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta: Tender chicken in a creamy garlic butter sauce tossed with pasta.

• Creamy Italian Sausage Pasta: Rich and savory with a touch of heat from Italian sausage.

• Cheesy Rotini with Garlic Butter Beef: A family favorite with gooey cheese and flavorful beef.

• Golden Garlic Chicken Bites over Creamy Parmesan Pasta: Crispy chicken paired with indulgent Parmesan pasta.

Conclusion

This garlic butter tortellini with creamy sauce, beef, Italian sausage, and spinach is proof that incredible flavor doesn’t have to mean hours in the kitchen. It’s rich, comforting, and easy enough for any day of the week. Try it once, and it just might become a regular in your dinner rotation. Don’t forget to leave a comment with your favorite tweaks or share a photo of your creation—you’ll inspire others to give it a try too.

Garlic Butter Tortellini in Creamy Sauce with Beef, Italian Sausage & Spinach

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• Author: Ava
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A rich and comforting one-pan pasta dish with cheese tortellini, savory ground beef, spicy Italian sausage, and a creamy garlic butter sauce finished with fresh spinach.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 tbsp butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1/2 lb ground beef
• 1/2 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
• 1 (9 oz) package cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 cups fresh spinach
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish

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Instructions

1. In a large skillet, melt 1 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add ground beef and Italian sausage; cook until browned. Drain fat and set aside.
2. Add remaining butter to the skillet. Sauté onion until translucent, then add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
3. Add tortellini, heavy cream, and Italian seasoning. Simmer until tortellini is tender (3–5 minutes).
4. Return the meat to the skillet. Stir in Parmesan cheese until sauce thickens.
5. Add spinach and cook until wilted. Adjust seasoning to taste.
6. Garnish with parsley or basil and serve hot.

Notes

• Use spicy Italian sausage for extra heat.
• Swap heavy cream for half-and-half for a lighter sauce.
• Add mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for more texture.
• Gluten-free tortellini works for a GF version.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1.5 cups
• Calories: 620
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 890mg
• Fat: 45g
• Saturated Fat: 23g
• Unsaturated Fat: 19g
• Trans Fat: 0.5g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 145mg

Keywords: creamy tortellini skillet, one-pan pasta dinner, garlic butter sauce with spinach, easy weeknight pasta