Tanya Rivers
Looking for a meal that wraps bold flavors and comforting textures into one incredible dish? This Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Tortellini with Italian Sausage & Spinach is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. With cheesy tortellini, juicy Italian sausage, a savory garlic butter sauce, and vibrant greens, this dish comes together in under 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights or when you just need a hearty dinner fix.
Every forkful delivers a satisfying balance of creamy richness, herby seasoning, and the slight chew of pasta that’s cooked just right. Whether you’re cooking for your family or impressing dinner guests, this one-pan meal is designed to hit all the right notes. Best of all, it’s easy to customize with your favorite greens or protein swaps.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Tortellini
- Quick & Comforting: Ready in about 25 minutes, but tastes like you simmered it all day.
- One Pan Wonder: Fewer dishes, less mess, all the flavor.
- Full of Flavor: Creamy garlic butter meets seasoned beef and sausage in a rich combo.
- Perfect for Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day.
- Kid-Approved: Cheesy pasta with savory meat? Say no more.
What Kind of Tortellini Should I Use?
You can go with refrigerated or frozen tortellini—either works well. Cheese-stuffed tortellini is classic, but if you’re feeling adventurous, try spinach-ricotta or even mushroom-stuffed tortellini for added depth. Just avoid overcooking it since it will continue to soak up sauce even after you take it off the heat.
Ingredients for the Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Tortellini with Italian Sausage & Spinach
Each ingredient in this recipe adds something special, from richness to aroma to hearty satisfaction:
- Cheese Tortellini: The star of the show! Choose fresh or frozen for a cheesy bite that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce.
- Ground Beef: Adds depth and hearty texture.
- Italian Sausage: Infuses the dish with a spiced, savory richness.
- Fresh Spinach: A touch of green to balance the richness and add nutrients.
- Garlic Cloves: Minced for that bold, unmistakable flavor.
- Butter: The base of the luscious, silky garlic sauce.
- Heavy Cream: Makes everything creamy and indulgent.
- Parmesan Cheese: Melts into the sauce for added umami and creaminess.
- Crushed Tomatoes: Brings a bit of acidity to brighten the flavors.
- Italian Seasoning: Ties it all together with classic herb flavor.
- Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning to taste.
How To Make the Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Tortellini with Italian Sausage & Spinach
Step 1: Brown the Meat
In a large skillet, cook ground beef and Italian sausage over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
Step 2: Build the Flavor Base
Add butter to the skillet along with minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Step 3: Simmer the Sauce
Pour in crushed tomatoes and stir. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Let simmer for 5 minutes.
Step 4: Stir in the Cream
Lower the heat and add heavy cream. Stir gently and allow it to heat through without boiling.
Step 5: Cook the Tortellini
Add the tortellini directly into the sauce. Simmer until pasta is tender and cooked through (about 7 minutes).
Step 6: Add Spinach & Cheese
Toss in the spinach and let it wilt. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 7: Serve Hot
Spoon into bowls and garnish with extra Parmesan and chopped parsley if desired.
How to Serve and Store This Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Tortellini
This comforting pasta dinner feeds about 4 to 5 people, depending on appetite. It’s rich enough to serve on its own but works wonderfully with sides. Serve immediately while hot for the best experience, or store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. Reheat gently over medium-low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth if needed.
To freeze: Let the dish cool, portion into freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What to Serve With Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Tortellini?
Garlic Bread
Crunchy, buttery, and perfect for scooping up the extra sauce.
Caesar Salad
A fresh and crunchy salad that lightens the richness of the pasta.
Roasted Broccoli
Add a healthy twist and some earthy balance to your plate.
Caprese Salad
Fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella to brighten the dish.
Balsamic Glazed Carrots
Sweet and tangy with just the right amount of bite.
Bruschetta
Start dinner with a light, herby tomato topping on toasted bread.
Lemon Asparagus
Simple roasted asparagus with lemon zest brings a fresh finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding to the dish to avoid watering down the sauce.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely. Cook the entire dish, let it cool, and refrigerate. It tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Use a skillet over low heat with a splash of cream or broth to bring back the creaminess. You can also microwave, but the stove method gives better texture.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Not as written, but you can easily make it gluten-free by using gluten-free tortellini and checking the labels on your sausage and other ingredients.
Can I add mushrooms or other veggies?
Definitely. Mushrooms, zucchini, or sun-dried tomatoes would be great additions for more flavor and texture.
Save This Pin For Later
📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you try spicy sausage or add extra cheese? Maybe tossed in mushrooms? I love hearing how you personalize these recipes. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.
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Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Tortellini with Italian Sausage & Spinach
Equipment
- Large Skillet
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 lb cheese tortellini
- 1/2 lb ground beef
- 1/2 lb Italian sausage
- 3 cups fresh spinach
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup crushed tomatoes
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and Italian sausage until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Let simmer for 5 minutes.
- Pour in heavy cream and stir gently to combine. Do not boil.
- Add tortellini and cook in the sauce for about 7 minutes, or until pasta is tender.
- Stir in spinach and let it wilt, then mix in Parmesan cheese until melted.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with more Parmesan or parsley.
Notes
Use spicy sausage for a kick, or swap in mushrooms for a vegetarian version.