Creamy Beef and Vegetable Tortellini

This Creamy Beef and Vegetable Tortellini recipe is a delightful dish that brings comfort and flavor to your table. Ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings, this meal combines tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and cheesy tortellini in a rich sauce. With its creamy texture and savory taste, it’s sure to impress your guests while being easy enough for weeknight cooking.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 35 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavors: The combination of provolone and Parmesan creates a creamy sauce that elevates the taste.
• Versatile Ingredients: Easily customize with your favorite vegetables or protein alternatives.
• Comforting Meal: It’s the ultimate comfort food that satisfies cravings and warms the soul.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this hearty Italian-inspired dish.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here are some must-have items for this recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Saucepan
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Perfect for sautéing the beef and vegetables evenly without overcrowding.
• Saucepan: Essential for making the creamy cheese sauce that ties everything together.
• Whisk: Ensures a smooth sauce by preventing lumps when mixing ingredients.

Ingredients

For the Tortellini

• 1 package (20 oz) cheese tortellini
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

For the Sauce

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• ½ cup shredded provolone cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste

How to Make Creamy Beef and Vegetable Tortellini

Step 1: Prepare the Tortellini

Prepare the tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Beef

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
* Add the thinly sliced beef sirloin.
* Cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
* Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

In the same skillet:
* Add sliced green bell pepper, sliced onion, and minced garlic.
* Cook until vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
* Remove from heat and set aside with the beef.

Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a separate saucepan:
* Melt butter over medium heat.
* Whisk in flour; cook for about 1 minute to form a roux.

Gradually add whole milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
Cook until mixture thickens and bubbles, about 3-4 minutes.
Stir in shredded provolone and grated Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Add cooked tortellini, browned beef, and sautéed vegetables to the cheese sauce.
Stir gently to combine and coat everything evenly.

Step 6: Serve

Transfer to a serving dish. Serve hot garnished with fresh parsley or extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

Enjoy your delicious meal!

How to Serve Creamy Beef and Vegetable Tortellini

Creamy Beef and Vegetable Tortellini is a delicious dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Parsley: Chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and brightens the dish.
• Basil: Fresh basil leaves provide a fragrant aroma and enhance the Italian flavors.

Pair with Bread

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce, garlic bread complements this dish wonderfully.
• Italian Breadsticks: Crunchy breadsticks serve as a great appetizer or side.

Add a Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad brings a refreshing crunch that balances the creaminess of the tortellini.
• Mixed Greens: Lightly dressed mixed greens offer a healthy contrast to the rich dish.

Serve with Wine

• Red Wine: A glass of Chianti or Merlot pairs beautifully with the beef and complements the cheese sauce.
• White Wine: For a lighter option, consider a Sauvignon Blanc, which enhances the vegetables’ flavors.

How to Perfect Creamy Beef and Vegetable Tortellini

To make your Creamy Beef and Vegetable Tortellini even better, consider these tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh vegetables and high-quality beef for enhanced flavor and texture.
• Cook Tortellini Al Dente: This prevents overcooking in the sauce, keeping them firm and enjoyable.
• Make it Spicy: Add red pepper flakes to give a little kick to your creamy sauce if you like heat.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Try mixing different cheeses like mozzarella or fontina for varied flavors in the sauce.
• Pre-Prep Veggies: Chop vegetables ahead of time to streamline cooking on busy nights.
• Serve Immediately: Enjoy your dish right after cooking for the best taste and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Beef and Vegetable Tortellini

Complement your Creamy Beef and Vegetable Tortellini with these delightful side dishes. They will enhance your meal’s overall appeal.

1. Garlic Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus roasted with garlic becomes an elegant side bursting with flavor.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a refreshing contrast.
3. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and olive oil makes for a light appetizer.
4. Sautéed Spinach: Quick sautéed spinach with garlic offers healthy greens alongside your creamy pasta.
5. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized adds color and nutrition.
6. Creamy Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can balance the richness of the dish while adding crunch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Beef and Vegetable Tortellini, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Avoiding these common mistakes will ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Skipping ingredient prep: Always prepare all ingredients before you start cooking. This way, you can focus on the cooking process without interruptions.

• Overcooking the beef: Cook the beef just until browned. Overcooking can lead to tough meat. Aim for about 5 minutes on medium-high heat.

• Neglecting the sauce consistency: Ensure you whisk the milk gradually into the roux. This helps prevent lumps and achieves a creamy texture.

• Not seasoning adequately: Don’t forget to taste and season your sauce with salt and pepper. Proper seasoning enhances the flavors of your creamy beef and vegetable tortellini.

• Using low-quality cheese: Opt for good-quality provolone and Parmesan cheese. They melt better and add rich flavor to your sauce.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep refrigerated for up to 3 days.
• Allow it to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Creamy Beef and Vegetable Tortellini

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Can be stored for up to 3 months.
• Label with the date for reference.

Reheating Creamy Beef and Vegetable Tortellini

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.

• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.

• Stovetop: In a saucepan over medium heat, stir occasionally until heated through. Add a splash of milk if it seems too thick.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Creamy Beef and Vegetable Tortellini?

Creamy Beef and Vegetable Tortellini is a comforting pasta dish featuring tender beef sirloin, sautéed vegetables, and cheese tortellini in a rich cheese sauce.

Can I customize the vegetables in this dish?

Absolutely! Feel free to add or substitute your favorite vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for added flavor and nutrition.

How long does Creamy Beef and Vegetable Tortellini last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, it lasts about 3 days. If frozen, it can last up to 3 months.

What type of cheese is best for this recipe?

Provolone and Parmesan are ideal choices due to their melting qualities. However, feel free to experiment with mozzarella or fontina as well!

Final Thoughts

Creamy Beef and Vegetable Tortellini is a versatile recipe that combines rich flavors with comforting textures. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. You can easily customize it by adding more vegetables or adjusting seasonings according to your preference. Give this delicious dish a try; you won’t be disappointed!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Creamy Beef and Vegetable Tortellini

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Creamy Beef and Vegetable Tortellini is a delightful and comforting dish that’s perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. With tender beef sirloin, colorful vegetables, and cheesy tortellini enveloped in a rich provolone and Parmesan cheese sauce, this recipe is not only satisfying but also incredibly easy to prepare. Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights without compromising on flavor or comfort. Garnish with fresh herbs or serve alongside garlic bread for an elevated dining experience that will impress both kids and adults alike.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 package (20 oz) cheese tortellini
• 1 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups whole milk
• ½ cup shredded provolone cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Cook the tortellini according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, sauté the beef in olive oil until browned (about 5 minutes). Remove from skillet.
3. In the same skillet, sauté the bell pepper, onion, and garlic until softened (5-7 minutes). Remove from heat.
4. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to form a roux; gradually add milk while whisking to avoid lumps until thickened (3-4 minutes). Stir in cheeses until melted; season with salt and pepper.
5. Combine cooked tortellini, beef, and vegetables with the cheese sauce; stir gently.
6. Serve hot garnished with parsley or extra cheese as desired.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 590
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 670mg
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 85mg