Imagine tender, juicy steak bites sizzling in a hot skillet, tossed with pillowy tortellini coated in a creamy Alfredo sauce swirled with vibrant pesto. This dish is the perfect marriage of steakhouse indulgence and Italian comfort food—elevated enough for a special dinner yet easy enough for a weeknight meal.
If you love rich, creamy pasta with bold flavors, this Tender Steak Bites with Pesto Alfredo Tortellini Sauce recipe will quickly become a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Restaurant quality at home – Creamy, cheesy, herby pasta with perfectly seared steak.
- Quick & easy – Ready in about 30 minutes.
- Versatile – Works with different cuts of steak, tortellini flavors, or even chicken/shrimp.
- Crowd-pleaser – Comfort food that appeals to everyone.
Ingredients
For the Steak Bites
- 1 lb sirloin or ribeye steak (cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional for depth)
For the Tortellini & Sauce
- 12 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp cream cheese (for extra creaminess, optional)
- ⅓ cup basil pesto (homemade or store-bought)
- Salt & pepper to taste
Garnish
- Fresh basil leaves
- Extra Parmesan shavings
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Tortellini
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook tortellini according to package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Steak Bites
- Pat steak dry with paper towels (this ensures a perfect sear).
- Heat olive oil/butter in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add steak bites in a single layer—avoid overcrowding.
- Sear for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Remove from skillet and let rest.
3. Make the Alfredo Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add garlic and sauté until fragrant (30 seconds).
- Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Whisk in Parmesan and cream cheese until smooth.
- Stir in basil pesto. Season with salt and pepper.
- If sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water until silky.
4. Combine Everything
- Add cooked tortellini to the sauce, tossing gently to coat.
- Return steak bites to the skillet, mixing them with pasta.
- Garnish with fresh basil and Parmesan shavings.
Chef’s Tips for Success
- Best steak cuts: Ribeye = juiciest, Sirloin = affordable & lean, Tenderloin = most tender.
- Searing secret: Make sure the pan is hot and steak is dry—this creates the crust.
- Balance flavors: Pesto is strong, so adjust to taste. Start with less, add more if desired.
- Make ahead: Alfredo sauce can be made up to 2 days in advance. Reheat gently with a splash of cream.
Variations & Substitutions
- Protein swap: Use chicken, shrimp, or mushrooms instead of steak.
- Tortellini choice: Spinach & ricotta or mushroom tortellini work beautifully.
- Lighter option: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Low-carb: Swap tortellini for zucchini noodles.
Suggested Pairings
- Wine: A bold red (Cabernet Sauvignon) complements steak, while a crisp white (Chardonnay) pairs with creamy sauce.
- Sides: Garlic bread, roasted asparagus, or a simple Caesar salad.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes—just increase cooking time by 2–3 minutes.
Q: What’s the best steak cut for this dish?
Sirloin is great for value and tenderness, but ribeye adds richness.
Q: Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes—store in the fridge up to 2 days. Reheat with extra cream.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk or cream.
Nutrition (Per Serving – Approx.)
- Calories: 620
- Protein: 35g
- Carbs: 45g
- Fat: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
(Values vary based on ingredients.)
Conclusion
This Tender Steak Bites with Pesto Alfredo Tortellini Sauce recipe is the ultimate comfort food fusion—steakhouse richness meets Italian pasta perfection. It’s quick enough for busy nights yet impressive enough for guests.
💡 Try it once, and it might just become your go-to pasta night favorite. Don’t forget to share your version and leave a rating below!
