Introduction
Experience a mouthwatering fusion of succulent steak bites tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce, perfectly paired with creamy alfredo tortellini. This dish promises to be a delightful addition to any dinner table, offering a harmonious balance of savory and creamy flavors.
Ingredients
Ribeye steak, cut into 1-inch cubes: 450g
Butter: 60g
Garlic, minced: 15g
Fresh parsley, chopped: 15g
Olive oil: 15ml
Cheese tortellini: 250g
Heavy cream: 200ml
Parmesan cheese, grated: 60g
Salt: to taste
Black pepper: to taste
Red pepper flakes (optional): to taste
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions
1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the tortellini according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the steak cubes, salt, and black pepper, then cook for about 3-4 minutes until browned. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter and allow it to melt, then stir in the minced garlic. Cook for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Return the steak bites to the skillet and toss them in the garlic butter until evenly coated. Stir in the chopped parsley and remove from heat.
5. In a separate saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and whisk until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Add the cooked tortellini to the alfredo sauce, gently stirring to combine and heat through.
7. Serve the tortellini topped with the garlic butter steak bites. Garnish with additional parsley and red pepper flakes if desired.
**Detailed Directions and Instructions**
1. Boil the Tortellini
Bring a pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Carefully add the cheese tortellini and cook according to the instructions on the package, usually about 3-5 minutes. Once done, drain the tortellini and set it aside, allowing any excess water to drip off.
2. Sear the Steak Bites
In a large skillet, pour in the olive oil and heat it over medium-high heat. Add the ribeye steak cubes, sprinkle with salt and black pepper, and sear them for about 3-4 minutes. The steak should be beautifully browned while still tender. Remove the cooked steak from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Allow it to slowly melt, filling the kitchen with a rich aroma. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and let it sauté for 1-2 minutes until it becomes fragrant and lightly golden.
4. Combine Steak with Garlic Butter
Return the steak bites to the skillet, ensuring they are well-coated with the luscious garlic butter sauce. Add in the chopped parsley, giving everything a light toss, and then remove the skillet from the heat. The combination of steak and garlic will create an irresistible scent.
5. Make the Creamy Alfredo Sauce
In a separate saucepan, pour in the heavy cream and heat it over medium heat. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and whisk vigorously until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper, enhancing the flavor of the sauce.
6. Combine Tortellini and Alfredo Sauce
Introduce the cooked tortellini to the creamy alfredo sauce, gently stirring to ensure each piece is coated. Allow everything to heat together for a few moments. The tortellini will soak up the flavors, creating a rich and delightful base for the dish.
7. Serve and Garnish
On a large plate, serve the creamy alfredo tortellini topped with the garlic butter steak bites. For a touch of freshness and color, garnish with additional chopped parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired. This will not only enhance the visual appeal but also add a pop of flavor.
**Notes**
Cooking Steak to Preference
Feel free to adjust the cooking time of the steak according to your desired doneness—3-4 minutes for medium-rare, but cook longer for well-done steak.
Customizing the Alfredo Sauce
You can experiment with the alfredo sauce by adding in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor and texture.
Storage Suggestions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream if needed to bring back the saucy goodness.
Cook techniques
Boiling Pasta
Bring a pot of salted water to a rolling boil before adding the cheese tortellini. Ensure the pasta is cooked according to the package instructions for the best texture.
Searing Steak
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the ribeye steak cubes for about 3-4 minutes until browned, ensuring a delicious crust forms while keeping the inside tender.
Making Garlic Butter
After removing the steak from the skillet, reduce the heat and melt butter, adding minced garlic. Cook until fragrant, typically 1-2 minutes, to infuse the butter with garlic flavor.
Whisking Alfredo Sauce
In a separate saucepan, heat heavy cream and gradually whisk in grated Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy. This helps achieve a luxurious consistency for the sauce.
Tossing Ingredients
Combine the cooked tortellini with the alfredo sauce, gently stirring to ensure even coating. This step is crucial for a harmonious blend of flavors in the dish.
FAQ
Can I use a different cut of steak?
Yes, while ribeye is recommended for its flavor and tenderness, you can substitute with other cuts like sirloin or filet mignon.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave before serving.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While the components can be prepared in advance, it’s best to combine the steak and pasta just before serving for optimal texture and flavor.
Is there a vegetarian alternative to this dish?
Yes, you can replace the steak with sautéed mushrooms or plant-based protein, and maintain the rest of the recipe for a delicious vegetarian version.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! You can add spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the tortellini or steak for added nutrition and flavor.
Conclusion
Indulging in Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Alfredo Tortellini is an experience that pairs the robust flavors of succulent steak with the velvety richness of alfredo sauce. This dish not only satisfies cravings for both savory and creamy textures but also elevates any dining occasion. Whether for a weeknight meal or a special gathering, this delightful recipe is sure to please everyone at the table.
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