Garlic Steak Tortellini with Creamy Cajun Sauce

Name: Garlic Steak Tortellini with Creamy Cajun Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz fresh cheese tortellini; 1 lb steak (sirloin or ribeye), sliced thin; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup bell peppers, diced (red and green); 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Gourmet Plates

I absolutely love how homemade meals can come together in such a delightful way. This Garlic Steak Tortellini with Creamy Cajun Sauce is a testament to that. The combination of tender steak paired with flavorful tortellini and a creamy, spicy sauce creates a dish that is both comforting and sophisticated. Whether you're looking for a quick dinner or a special meal to impress guests, this recipe does it all. Plus, it captures all the satisfying qualities we adore in Italian cuisine—all in less than 30 minutes!

Created by

Leo

Last updated on 2026-02-16T16:14:19.492Z

When I first tried this Garlic Steak Tortellini with Creamy Cajun Sauce, I was amazed at how quickly it came together. The robust flavors of the Cajun seasoning meld perfectly with the creaminess of the sauce, elevating the dish into something truly special. I found that using fresh tortellini makes a significant difference, but you can use dried tortellini if that's what you have.

During the cooking process, I learned that letting the steak rest before slicing helps retain its juices, making each bite tender and flavorful. Additionally, don't be shy with the garlic; it complements the Cajun spices beautifully. This is a dish that has become a weeknight favorite in our home!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
The rich, bold flavors of Cajun seasoning provide a delightful kick.
Creamy sauce envelops every tortellini, creating a comforting bite.
Quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy evenings.

Mastering the Steak

Choosing the right cut of steak is vital for this dish. Sirloin or ribeye offers great flavor and tenderness when cooked quickly over high heat. When slicing, aim for thin strips to ensure they cook evenly and absorb the creamy sauce beautifully. If you're not confident in your slicing skills, partially freezing the steak for about 30 minutes can make the job easier, resulting in cleaner cuts.

For searing the steak, it’s crucial to get that skillet hot before adding the meat. This will help achieve a nice brown crust without overcooking the inside. Look for a golden color and a slightly crispy texture as indicators that it's ready to be removed. Avoid overcrowding the skillet, as this can lead to steaming rather than sautéing, which may prevent developing those delectable flavors.

Sauce Secrets

The creamy Cajun sauce is what elevates this meal, turning simple pasta into a gourmet experience. George the heavy cream here; allowing it to simmer will help achieve that glossy look while thickening the sauce beautifully. If you want to lighten it up, consider substituting half-and-half or using a dairy-free cream alternative for a similar consistency without sacrificing flavor.

Incorporating fresh bell peppers adds both color and a bit of sweetness, balancing the heat from the Cajun seasoning. If you'd like an extra kick, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or some diced jalapeños for a spicier version. Just sauté them with the garlic for a bit longer to soften them up, ensuring they won't overpower the dish.

Ingredients

For the Tortellini Dish

12 oz fresh cheese tortellini
1 lb steak (sirloin or ribeye), sliced thin
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup bell peppers, diced (red and green)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish

Make sure to gather all your ingredients before starting for a smoother cooking experience!

Instructions

Cook the Tortellini

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the tortellini according to package instructions until tender, about 3-5 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Steak

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced steak, season with salt, pepper, and Cajun seasoning. Sauté until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add garlic and bell peppers, sautéing for 2 minutes until fragrant. Reduce heat to low, then add heavy cream and stir to combine. Let simmer for 3-5 minutes, allowing it to thicken.

Combine Everything

Return the steak to the skillet, along with the cooked tortellini. Toss everything together to coat in the creamy sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.

Serve

Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley for a fresh touch.

Enjoy this delicious meal with a side of crusty bread to soak up the extra sauce!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, marinate the steak in Cajun spices for 30 minutes before cooking.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you're short on time, the components of this dish can be prepped ahead. Cook the tortellini and sauté the steak a few hours in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator and combine them only when ready to serve. The sauce can also be made a few hours ahead; just give it a quick reheat with a splash of cream to restore its silky texture before serving.

When storing leftovers, make sure to keep the steak, tortellini, and sauce in separate containers to maintain the best texture. This way, you can gently reheat them separately and enjoy a near-perfect meal the next day.

Serving Suggestions

To amp up this meal visually and nutritionally, consider serving it alongside a fresh arugula salad tossed with a light vinaigrette. The peppery greens complement the richness of the dish and provide a refreshing contrast. Alternatively, garlic bread can add a delightful crunch that pairs perfectly with the creaminess of the sauce.

For a more substantial meal, you can also incorporate additional protein such as shrimp or chicken alongside the steak. Just ensure to cook the proteins separately and combine them near the end to maintain their distinct flavors and textures. This not only diversifies the dish but also makes it adaptable to various dietary preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, feel free to substitute with any pasta of your choice, although tortellini adds a unique texture.

→ Is it possible to make this dish healthier?

Absolutely! You can substitute heavy cream with a lighter option like half-and-half or use a plant-based cream.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.

→ Can you freeze this dish?

It's best to enjoy this dish fresh, but you can freeze it before adding the cream. Just add the cream when reheating.