Beef & Parmesan Tortellini in Creamy Sauce – The Ultimate Comfort Food

When hearty beef meets tender cheese-filled tortellini, all coated in a velvety Parmesan cream sauce — you know you’re in for something special. This Beef & Parmesan Tortellini in Creamy Sauce recipe is rich, comforting, and incredibly easy to make.

Perfect for weeknight dinners, cozy date nights, or even when you just crave something indulgent and satisfying, this dish brings Italian-inspired flavor straight to your table in under 30 minutes.

Get ready to twirl that fork through layers of creamy, cheesy perfection! 🍝💛

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🧀 Why You’ll Love This Dish

• ❤️ Comfort in every bite – creamy, savory, and deeply satisfying.
• 🍳 Quick and easy – ready in 30 minutes or less!
• 🍖 Family-friendly – everyone loves a cheesy pasta dinner.
• 🧂 Made with simple ingredients – no fancy equipment or complicated steps.
• 🇮🇹 Italian-inspired flavor – like a gourmet restaurant meal at home.

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🥩 Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Pasta:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef (lean or regular)
• 1 (20 oz / 550g) package cheese tortellini (fresh or refrigerated)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp tomato paste (optional for depth of flavor)
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped for garnish

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🍳 How to Make Beef & Parmesan Tortellini in Creamy Sauce

Step 1: Cook the Tortellini

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the tortellini according to package instructions (usually 3–5 minutes for fresh pasta).
Drain and set aside.

💡 Tip: Don’t overcook the tortellini — they should be soft but still hold their shape.

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Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks.
Drain any excess grease if needed.

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Step 3: Add Aromatics

Stir in minced garlic and chopped onion.
Cook for about 2–3 minutes until fragrant and the onions are soft and translucent.

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Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

Add beef broth and tomato paste (if using), stirring to combine.
Reduce the heat to medium and pour in the heavy cream.
Simmer gently for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.

Stir in Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes.
Continue to cook until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.

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Step 5: Combine & Serve

Add the cooked tortellini to the sauce and stir gently until everything is evenly coated.
Simmer for 1–2 more minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

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Step 6: Garnish & Enjoy

Serve hot, topped with extra grated Parmesan and freshly chopped parsley or basil.

Optional: Sprinkle a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of olive oil for extra richness.

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🧄 Flavor Variations & Add-Ins

Want to make it your own? Try these tasty twists!

• 🥬 Spinach: Stir in a handful of fresh spinach at the end for color and nutrients.
• 🍄 Mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the beef for an earthy touch.
• 🍅 Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a sweet-tangy flavor.
• 🧀 Extra Cheese: Mix in mozzarella or provolone for extra gooey goodness.
• 🌶️ Spicy Version: Use spicy Italian sausage instead of beef for a fiery kick.

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🍽️ What to Serve With It

This Beef & Parmesan Tortellini dish pairs beautifully with:

• 🥖 Garlic Bread – perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
• 🥗 Caesar Salad – adds a refreshing crunch.
• 🍷 Glass of Red Wine – like Cabernet Sauvignon or Chianti.
• 🍰 Light dessert – such as Lemon Poppy Seed Cupcakes or Tiramisu.

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🧊 Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.
• Freeze: You can freeze the sauce separately (without tortellini) for up to 2 months.

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💡 Tips for Success

1. Use fresh tortellini – it cooks faster and has better texture than dried.
2. Don’t boil the sauce – simmer gently to prevent curdling.
3. Grate your own Parmesan – pre-grated cheese won’t melt as smoothly.
4. Add salt gradually – Parmesan is naturally salty, so taste before adding extra.

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❤️ Why This Recipe Works

This recipe balances the richness of cream and cheese with the savory flavor of beef, creating a perfectly seasoned, restaurant-worthy dish.
The tortellini adds that chewy, cheesy bite that makes each forkful irresistible.

It’s comfort food elevated — luxurious enough for guests, yet simple enough for any night of the week.

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🥂 Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a warm, hearty pasta dish that feels like a hug in a bowl, this Beef & Parmesan Tortellini in Creamy Sauce will not disappoint.

It’s the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy, and meaty goodness, made with everyday ingredients you probably already have.

Whether it’s a family dinner, cozy date night, or meal-prep favorite, this recipe will become a go-to classic you’ll make again and again.

So grab your skillet, your tortellini, and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan — it’s time to make pasta magic happen! 🍝✨

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