Easy Garlic Butter Beef and Spinach Tortellini Recipe

A hearty, one-skillet dinner that’s ready in just 20 minutes! This creamy, flavorful pasta dish combines tender ground beef, cheese-filled tortellini, and fresh spinach in a rich garlic butter sauce.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Difficulty Level: Easy

What You’ll Need (Ingredients)

For the Beef:

• 1 pound ground beef (450g)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional – skip if you don’t like spice)

For the Pasta and Sauce:

• 1 package refrigerated cheese tortellini (20 oz size)
• 1 cup beef broth (low-sodium preferred)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cups fresh spinach leaves (baby spinach works great)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried parsley)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef (6-8 minutes)

Heat your olive oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is warm, add the ground beef. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break the meat into small pieces as it cooks. Cook until the beef is completely browned and no pink remains – this usually takes 6 to 8 minutes. If there’s excess grease in the pan, carefully drain it off using a spoon or by tilting the pan slightly.

Step 2: Add the Seasonings (1-2 minutes)

Turn the heat down to medium. Add your minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if you’re using them) right into the pan with the beef. Stir everything together and cook for 1 to 2 minutes. You’ll smell the garlic becoming fragrant – that’s when you know it’s ready!

Step 3: Cook the Tortellini (Follow package directions)

While your beef is cooking, fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook according to the package instructions – this is usually 3 to 4 minutes for fresh tortellini. Drain the water and set the cooked tortellini aside.

Step 4: Create the Sauce Base (2-3 minutes)

Pour the beef broth into your skillet with the seasoned beef. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer (you’ll see small bubbles forming). Let it cook for 2 to 3 minutes to blend the flavors together.

Step 5: Add Butter and Spinach (2-3 minutes)

Add the butter to the skillet and stir until it’s completely melted. Then add your fresh spinach leaves. The spinach will look like a lot at first, but don’t worry – it will shrink down quickly! Stir gently and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the spinach is wilted and soft.

Step 6: Combine Everything (2-3 minutes)

Add your cooked tortellini to the skillet. Using a large spoon or tongs, gently toss everything together until each piece of tortellini is coated with the delicious sauce.

Step 7: Finish with Cheese and Herbs (1-2 minutes)

Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. Stir gently for another 1 to 2 minutes to let the cheese melt and everything come together.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Remove from heat and serve immediately while it’s hot. Feel free to sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese and parsley on top of each serving.

Helpful Tips for Success

• Make it easier: If chopping fresh garlic is difficult, use pre-minced garlic from a jar or garlic powder instead.
• Save time: You can use frozen spinach (thawed and drained) instead of fresh if that’s what you have on hand.
• Less spicy: Skip the red pepper flakes entirely if you prefer mild flavors.
• Extra creamy: Add a splash of heavy cream or milk in step 5 for an even richer sauce.
• Storage: Leftovers keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat well in the microwave.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 550
• Protein: High (from beef and cheese)
• Servings: Makes 4 generous portions

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of tender beef, creamy cheese tortellini, and nutritious spinach makes it a complete meal that the whole family will love!