Name: Cracked Garlic Steak Tortellini in Creamhouse Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 20 oz cheese tortellini (Fresh or refrigerated varieties yield the best texture and taste); 1 lb steak (sirloin or ribeye) - sirloin is leaner; ribeye is more tender; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; Garlic powder, to taste; Smoked paprika, to taste; Cracked black pepper for garnish (optional); Red pepper flakes (optional); Parsley, chopped (optional); 2 tbsp olive oil (Essential for searing the steak); 4 tbsp butter (Creates a creamy sauce base); 5 cloves garlic, minced (Adds aromatic richness); 1 cup heavy cream (Contributes a velvety smoothness); 3/4 cup whole milk (Balances the richness); 1 1/4 cups parmesan, shredded or freshly grated (Brings a savory flavor)

I absolutely love sharing this Cracked Garlic Steak Tortellini in Creamhouse Sauce Recipe with friends because it brings together such decadent flavors yet is surprisingly simple to make. The tender steak and pillowy cheese tortellini come together in a dreamy, garlicky cream sauce that feels like pure comfort on a plate. Whenever I make this dish, I know I’m in for a rich, satisfying meal that’s full of personality and soul.

Why You'll Love This Cracked Garlic Steak Tortellini in Creamhouse Sauce Recipe

One of the things that excites me most about this recipe is the incredible flavor profile. The cracked garlic adds a bold, aromatic punch that perfectly balances the richness of the creamhouse sauce, while the seasoning on the steak brings a smokey, peppery edge that keeps every bite interesting. It’s like a restaurant-quality meal made from scratch, right in your own kitchen.

I also love how straightforward the preparation is. Even if you’re pressed for time or not super experienced in the kitchen, this recipe feels totally manageable. The steps flow naturally—from cooking the tender tortellini to searing the steak and finishing with the luscious cream sauce. It’s the kind of dish that makes weeknight dinners feel special or impresses at casual gatherings without much fuss.

Whether I’m cooking for a cozy family dinner or serving it up for friends at a weekend get-together, this Cracked Garlic Steak Tortellini in Creamhouse Sauce Recipe truly stands out. It strikes a beautiful balance between elegant and approachable, so it’s perfect for so many occasions. Plus, the leftovers (if there are any!) taste just as dreamy the next day.

Ingredients You'll Need

The image shows four white bowls arranged in a 2x2 grid on a white marbled surface. The top left bowl contains several raw beef chunks, red with some black pepper sprinkled on them. The top right bowl is filled with light yellow tortellini pasta shaped like small rings with folded edges. The bottom left bowl holds blocks of pale yellow butter, two garlic bulbs, and a small pile of black pepper. The bottom right bowl has a bunch of green parsley, a small bowl of grated white cheese, and a clear glass pitcher filled with white cream. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The ingredients for this recipe are wonderfully simple but essential to nailing that perfect combination of flavors and textures. Each item plays a crucial role, from the seasoning that flavors the steak to the creamy dairy components that make the sauce luxuriously smooth and comforting.

TIP : You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below

Cheese tortellini: Fresh or refrigerated varieties give you the best texture and a rich cheese flavor that melts in your mouth.
Steak (sirloin or ribeye): Sirloin offers a leaner bite, while ribeye brings tenderness and marbled juiciness—both work wonderfully.
Salt and black pepper: Simple yet vital for seasoning the steak and bringing out all the other flavors.
Garlic powder and smoked paprika: These add depth and a smoky warmth, making the steak seasoning extra special.
Olive oil: Perfect for searing the steak to a beautiful brown crust.
Butter: The base for the creamy sauce, adding richness and a silky texture.
Minced garlic cloves: Fresh garlic infuses the sauce with an irresistible aroma and flavor.
Heavy cream and whole milk: These two dairy stars combine to create a balanced, velvety sauce that’s neither too thick nor too thin.
Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated parmesan melts into the sauce, giving it a savory punch and smooth finish.
Parsley (optional): Adds a bright, fresh touch and a lovely color contrast.
Red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like a little heat, this is a great way to spice things up.
Cracked black pepper (optional garnish): Adds a finishing touch with bold peppery notes.

Directions

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 3 to 5 minutes until al dente. Once cooked, drain well and set the tortellini aside to keep warm.

Step 2: While the tortellini is cooking, season your steak generously with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add the steak. Sear it for about 3 to 5 minutes on each side or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Once seared, remove the steak from the skillet and set it aside to rest.

Step 3: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, just until fragrant—you want to avoid burning the garlic as it will turn bitter quickly.

Step 4: Pour in the heavy cream and whole milk, stirring to combine. Let the mixture simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes until it starts to thicken slightly. This slow simmer helps the sauce develop a velvety texture.

Step 5: Gradually whisk in the shredded or freshly grated parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until it melts completely and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Step 6: Slice the rested steak into bite-size pieces, return it to the skillet along with the drained tortellini. Toss everything together gently in the cream sauce over medium heat for about 2 minutes to marry the flavors and warm through.

Step 7: Finally, garnish with chopped parsley, a sprinkle of cracked black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you want a little extra heat. Serve immediately and enjoy the full, rich flavors of this incredible Cracked Garlic Steak Tortellini in Creamhouse Sauce Recipe.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 4 hearty servings, perfect for a family dinner or a small gathering of friends. The prep time is quick—about 10 minutes to get everything ready. Cooking the dish takes roughly 20 minutes, including searing the steak and simmering the sauce. In total, you'll have a delicious meal on the table in around 30 minutes, making it an excellent choice for weeknights when you want something that feels indulgent without requiring hours in the kitchen. There’s no resting time necessary beyond letting the steak rest briefly after searing, which ensures juices are locked in and every bite is tender.

How to Serve This Cracked Garlic Steak Tortellini in Creamhouse Sauce Recipe

The image shows a white plate on a white marbled surface with three different foods neatly arranged in sections. On the left side, there is a creamy, light beige sauce with small round pieces, sprinkled with black pepper. In the middle top section, there are light yellow pasta pieces shaped like small rings or shells, with some green herbs scattered on top. On the right side, there are several brown grilled meat pieces with a nicely seared texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

When I serve this dish, I love pairing it with a fresh, crisp side salad to balance the richness of the cream sauce—something with bright vinaigrette, like arugula with lemon or a simple mixed greens salad. Roasted or steamed vegetables like asparagus or broccoli also complement this meal beautifully, providing texture and color contrast on the plate.

For presentation, I like to plate the tortellini and steak mixture in a shallow bowl or wide-rimmed plate so the creamy sauce can pool around without spilling. A final sprinkle of parsley and cracked black pepper adds that pop of green and a hint of heat that’s visually appealing. If you’re serving guests, a little extra parmesan on the side is always welcomed.

This Cracked Garlic Steak Tortellini in Creamhouse Sauce Recipe pairs wonderfully with a chilled glass of white wine like a buttery Chardonnay or a light Pinot Noir for red lovers. Non-alcoholic options like sparkling water with lemon or a fruity iced tea also refresh the palate between bites. I find this dish perfect for cozy family dinners, date nights at home, or even casual dinner parties where you want something that looks and tastes impressive but stays easy to make. I always recommend serving it hot or warm to fully enjoy the luscious creamhouse sauce and tender steak.

Variations

One of the reasons I keep coming back to this recipe is how adaptable it is. If you want to switch things up, you can easily swap the steak for other proteins like chicken breast or even shrimp, which will cook faster and lend a different but equally delicious flavor profile. For a vegetarian version, simply omit the steak and maybe add mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for extra umami.

If you’re looking to make it gluten-free, just choose gluten-free tortellini, which are increasingly easy to find in stores, or use an alternative pasta like rice or quinoa pasta. For dairy-free or vegan modifications, I’ve experimented with coconut cream or cashew cream in place of heavy cream and dairy-free cheese alternatives—though the flavor and texture will shift, it’s still delightfully tasty.

For an extra flavor kick, try adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary while searing the steak, or stir in a little truffle oil into the sauce just before serving. You can also finish the dish under a broiler with some extra parmesan for a crispy golden top if you want a gratin-style twist. I encourage experimenting with these tweaks based on what you have in your kitchen or your taste preferences.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

I always recommend storing any leftovers in an airtight container to keep the sauce from drying out or absorbing fridge odors. This dish will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Before storing, make sure the tortellini and steak have cooled to room temperature to avoid condensation inside the container, which can affect texture.

Freezing

This Cracked Garlic Steak Tortellini in Creamhouse Sauce Recipe can be frozen, but with some considerations. For best results, freeze it in a freezer-safe airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag to prevent freezer burn. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When freezing, slightly undercook the tortellini to avoid it becoming mushy after reheating. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to maintain flavor and texture.

Reheating

The best way to reheat this dish is gently on the stovetop over low heat. Use a non-stick skillet and add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much. Stir frequently to ensure even warming and to prevent the cream from separating or burning. Microwaving is possible but can lead to uneven heating and a less creamy texture, so I usually avoid it. If reheated properly, the tortellini and steak stay tender, and the sauce remains luscious.

FAQs

Can I use frozen tortellini instead of fresh or refrigerated?

Yes, frozen tortellini works just fine. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package directions, usually a minute or two longer than fresh varieties, so that the pasta is cooked through yet still firm.

What cut of steak is best for this recipe?

I recommend sirloin for a leaner option or ribeye if you prefer your steak more tender and flavorful due to its marbling. Both sear well and complement the creamhouse sauce nicely.

Is there a substitute for heavy cream if I want a lighter sauce?

You can use half-and-half or a combination of milk and cream cheese as a lighter alternative, but keep in mind the sauce won’t be quite as rich or thick. Adjust seasoning accordingly to boost flavor.

Can I prepare parts of this recipe ahead of time?

Definitely! You can season and sear the steak ahead and store it separately in the fridge. The sauce and tortellini are best made fresh but can be warmed gently together before serving for convenience.

How spicy does this dish get with the red pepper flakes?

The red pepper flakes add just a gentle heat that balances the creaminess. You can easily adjust the amount or omit them completely if you prefer no spice.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a dish that combines comfort and elegance, this Cracked Garlic Steak Tortellini in Creamhouse Sauce Recipe is the one I always turn to. It’s rich, flavorful, and satisfying without being complicated, and I promise it will win over everyone at your table. Give it a try, and I’m sure it’ll become a beloved favorite on your dinner rotation too!