If you’re craving a dish that brings together hearty steak, cheesy tortellini, and a luxuriously creamy sauce, you’ve just found your new favorite comfort meal. This Cracked Garlic Steak Tortellini in Creamhouse Sauce Recipe perfectly balances bold garlic flavors with tender, juicy steak and pillowy tortellini, all enveloped in a rich, velvety cream sauce that feels like a hug on a plate. Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner or want to impress friends with something indulgent yet approachable, this recipe delivers on all fronts with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Two raw steaks with deep red meat and white fat edges lie on a dark wooden board. The board is placed on a white marbled textured surface. Next to the steaks is a bunch of green thyme herbs on the left side and a knife with a black handle on the bottom right. A dark gray cloth is partially visible near the top right corner of the board. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This dish boasts a straightforward ingredient list where each component plays a key role in creating an irresistible ensemble of taste, texture, and color. From the perfectly seasoned steak to the creamy Parmesan sauce, every single item contributes to the magic of this meal.

20 oz cheese tortellini: Fresh or refrigerated tortellini offer the ideal texture and carry the sauce beautifully.
1 lb steak (sirloin or ribeye): Sirloin gives a leaner bite, while ribeye brings extra tenderness and marbling.
Salt: Simple yet essential for enhancing every flavor layer.
Black pepper: Adds a warm, mildly spicy note that elevates the dish.
Garlic powder: Boosts the garlic profile without overpowering the steak.
Smoked paprika: Introduces a subtle smoky warmth to enrich the steak seasoning.
2 tbsp olive oil: Perfect for searing the steak until beautifully caramelized.
4 tbsp butter: Creates a luscious base for the creamhouse sauce.
5 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic infuses the sauce with aromatic depth.
1 cup heavy cream: Gives the sauce its smooth, indulgent texture.
3/4 cup whole milk: Balances the cream’s richness and helps achieve the ideal sauce consistency.
1 1/4 cups parmesan cheese, shredded or freshly grated: Adds sharp, savory notes and a creamy finish to the sauce.
Parsley, chopped (optional): A bright green garnish that adds a fresh punch and contrasts the richness.
Red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like just a touch of heat to wake up the palate.
Cracked black pepper (optional garnish): A finishing touch that intensifies flavor and visual appeal.

How to Make Cracked Garlic Steak Tortellini in Creamhouse Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Tortellini

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Toss in your cheese tortellini and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 3 to 5 minutes until tender but still firm to the bite. Once cooked, drain the tortellini and set it aside—this will be tossed later in that dreamy creamhouse sauce.

Step 2: Season and Sear the Steak

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. While heating, season your steak generously with salt, freshly cracked black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. This combination creates layers of savory, smoky flavor. Sear the steak for about 3 to 5 minutes on each side until it develops an appetizing brown crust. Remove it from the skillet and rest it—this preserves those juicy juices for the final dish.

Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Cream Sauce

Using the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and melt butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about one minute until it becomes fragrant—this step is key to infusing the sauce with that signature garlicky aroma. You want to be careful not to let the garlic burn here to avoid any bitterness.

Step 4: Create the Cream Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and whole milk, stirring gently to combine. Allow this mixture to simmer for 3 to 4 minutes, during which time it will thicken slightly and become beautifully silky. This is the soul of the “creamhouse sauce” you’re building, so patience now means a perfectly luscious finish.

Step 5: Incorporate the Cheese

Gradually whisk in the shredded parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese melts completely and the sauce turns smooth and velvety. At this point, taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if needed—a pinch of salt or more pepper can really brighten flavor.

Step 6: Combine the Ingredients

Slice the rested steak into bite-sized pieces and return it to the skillet along with the cooked tortellini. Toss gently but thoroughly so the tortellini and steak get fully coated in that rich creamhouse sauce. Let everything mingle in the pan for just 2 minutes to warm through and soak up those garlicky, cheesy vibes.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Finish by sprinkling fresh chopped parsley, a sprinkle of cracked black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Serve immediately, and get ready to savor every creamy, garlicky, satisfying bite of this unforgettable Cracked Garlic Steak Tortellini in Creamhouse Sauce Recipe.

How to Serve Cracked Garlic Steak Tortellini in Creamhouse Sauce Recipe

A close-up view of a dish in a white bowl filled with creamy sauce that has a light beige color and smooth texture. Inside the sauce are folded tortellini pasta with a pale yellow color, scattered throughout the bowl. Large browned beef chunks with a slightly seared texture sit mixed with the pasta. The dish is sprinkled with small green herb pieces and cracks of black pepper, adding contrast. The creamy sauce glistens and coats the pasta and meat evenly. The bowl is set on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh parsley chopped finely adds a burst of color and a lovely herbaceous note to balance the richness. Cracked black pepper and red pepper flakes lend a finishing pop of spice and texture. Feel free to sprinkle extra parmesan for those who adore cheesy goodness.

Side Dishes

This pasta is pretty hearty on its own, but a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or some roasted seasonal vegetables can add brightness and crunch. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette also pairs beautifully by helping you scoop up every last bit of sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this dish family-style right from the skillet for a cozy vibe, or plate it elegantly with a sprig of parsley on top for a dinner party. For a fun spin, try serving in individual shallow bowls and drizzle with a little truffle oil or a touch of balsamic reduction for an upscale touch that elevates the flavors while staying true to the homey roots of this recipe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover Cracked Garlic Steak Tortellini in Creamhouse Sauce Recipe in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to three days, making it a perfect next-day meal or quick lunch option when you’re on the go.

Freezing

While this dish tastes best fresh, you can freeze leftovers if needed. Just ensure it is cooled completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Keep it for up to one month, but be aware that the texture of the cream sauce may change slightly upon thawing.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to bring back the sauce’s creamy consistency. Stir frequently to avoid sticking or burning, and never rush this step, as slow reheating preserves the flavors and silky texture of the dish.

FAQs

Can I use frozen tortellini for this recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen tortellini works just fine—just follow package instructions for cooking times to avoid overcooking, and strain well so they don’t become soggy.

What cut of steak works best?

Sirloin is a great lean choice that holds up well, but ribeye adds extra tenderness and flavor thanks to marbling. Either will shine in this Cracked Garlic Steak Tortellini in Creamhouse Sauce Recipe.

Is there a dairy-free alternative for the cream sauce?

For a dairy-free twist, try substituting with coconut cream and a vegan parmesan alternative. Keep seasoning adjustments in mind as flavors will shift slightly.

Can this recipe be made gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap out regular tortellini for a gluten-free version found at most grocery stores. This ensures everyone can enjoy the deliciousness without compromise.

How do I prevent the cream sauce from breaking?

Low and slow heat is key here. Avoid boiling the sauce and stir often when integrating cheese to maintain that smooth, creamy texture.

Final Thoughts

This Cracked Garlic Steak Tortellini in Creamhouse Sauce Recipe is one of those dishes that feels utterly indulgent but comes together quickly and easily. It’s the perfect balance of cozy comfort food and sophisticated flavors you’ll want to make again and again. Trust me, once you’ve savored this creamy, garlicky, steak-packed pasta, it will become a beloved staple in your kitchen too.