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Cowboy Butter Tortellini Steak Bites

Cowboy Butter Tortellini Steak Bites for a Quick Flavor Boost

Enjoy Cowboy Butter Tortellini Steak Bites, a rich and comforting dish perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 bites
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 550
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Steak
  • 1.5 lbs Sirloin or Ribeye Steak Choose ribeye for a flavor-packed experience or sirloin for a leaner option.
  • 1 tsp Cajun Seasoning Adds a spicy kick; adjust to suit your heat preference.
  • 0.5 tsp Smoked Paprika Contributes a delightful smokiness and vibrant color.
  • 0.5 tsp Garlic Powder Deepens the savory notes in the dish.
  • 1 pinch Salt & Black Pepper Essential for seasoning; always season to taste.
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil Perfect for searing the steak and adding richness.
For the Cowboy Butter Sauce
  • 6 tbsp Unsalted Butter Forms the base of the decadent cowboy butter sauce.
  • 4 cloves Garlic, minced The aromatic star of the sauce, bursting with flavor.
  • 0.5 tsp Red Pepper Flakes Use for an extra layer of heat if desired.
  • 1 tsp Dijon Mustard Adds tangy depth to the sauce's flavor profile.
  • Juice of 1 Lemon Brightens and balances the richness of the sauce.
  • 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley, chopped Offers a pop of color and freshness.
  • 1 tbsp Fresh Chives, chopped Enhances the dish's visual appeal and fresh taste.
For the Pasta
  • 12 oz Cheese Tortellini Provides comforting chewiness; fresh or refrigerated works beautifully.
  • 0.5 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Adds creaminess and a delicious umami kick; freshly grated is always best.
  • 0.5 cup Reserved Pasta Water Vital for achieving a silky, smooth sauce.

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • large pot

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Cook the Tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then cook cheese tortellini according to package instructions until al dente, typically 2-3 minutes. Reserve ½ cup pasta water before draining.
  2. Prepare the Steak Bites: Pat steak dry, season with Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned. Let rest.
  3. Make the Cowboy Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter, sauté garlic for 1 minute, add pepper flakes, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice, whisking until smooth. Stir in parsley and chives.
  4. Combine Everything: Add tortellini and steak bites to the skillet with the sauce, tossing gently. Gradually add reserved pasta water to achieve a silky consistency. Mix in grated Parmesan until melted.
  5. Serve: Spoon onto plates while hot, garnishing with extra Parmesan, parsley, and Cajun seasoning if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Pat steak dry for a better crust. Avoid overcrowding the pan for optimal searing. Adjust spice levels to taste and use fresh ingredients for best results.

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