One-Pan Cowboy Butter Tortellini Steak Bites Recipe

If you’re looking for a dinner that’s bold, comforting, and impressively flavorful, this One-Pan Cowboy Butter Tortellini Steak Bites recipe is your new go-to. Imagine tender, juicy steak bites seared to perfection, tossed with cheesy tortellini, and coated in a zesty, buttery sauce bursting with garlic, paprika, and fresh herbs. This dish brings together the hearty satisfaction of a classic steak dinner with the cheesy, indulgent comfort of pasta—all in one skillet for easy cleanup and minimal effort.

Perfect for a cozy weeknight meal, a casual dinner with friends, or a last-minute date night, this recipe proves that incredible flavor doesn’t need hours in the kitchen. The inspiration for this dish comes from the classic cowboy butter sauce, traditionally served with steak or seafood, reimagined here with pasta for a truly satisfying, crowd-pleasing meal.

Whether you’re a busy parent, a cooking enthusiast, or someone who simply loves bold flavors, these steak bites and tortellini coated in cowboy butter are designed to delight. The combination of smoky paprika, zesty lemon, fresh herbs, and creamy Parmesan ensures every bite is rich, savory, and unforgettable.

Ingredients

For the Steak Bites

• 1 ½ lbs sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into bite-sized cubes

• 1 tsp Cajun seasoning (or to taste)

• ½ tsp smoked paprika

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• Salt & black pepper, to taste

• 2 tbsp olive oil

For the Cowboy Butter Sauce

• 6 tbsp unsalted butter

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

• 1 tsp Dijon mustard

• Juice of 1 lemon

• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

• 1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped

For the Pasta

• 12 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or refrigerated)

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• ½ cup reserved pasta water

Directions

1. Cook the Tortellini

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Adding salt to the water is essential, as it seasons the tortellini from the inside out and enhances the overall flavor of the dish. Once the water is boiling, carefully add the cheese tortellini. Cook them according to the package directions until they are tender but still slightly firm to the bite—al dente is ideal, as it helps the tortellini hold its shape when tossed with the sauce. While the tortellini cooks, stir occasionally to prevent sticking, especially if you are using fresh pasta, which tends to be more delicate. Before draining, reserve ½ cup of the pasta water. This starchy water will be a key ingredient later, helping to create a silky, cohesive cowboy butter sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta. Once cooked, drain the tortellini in a colander and set it aside. At this point, it’s important to keep the pasta warm so it’s ready to absorb the flavors of the sauce and steak in the next steps.

2. Prepare the Steak Bites

While the pasta is cooking, focus on the steak. Pat each piece of steak dry with paper towels—this simple step is crucial for achieving a proper sear. Excess moisture on the steak will create steam instead of a caramelized crust, so don’t skip it. Once dry, season the steak evenly with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. These spices give the steak a bold, smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the richness of the cowboy butter sauce. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking. Carefully place the steak bites in the skillet in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this will lower the temperature and prevent proper searing. Cook the steak bites for 2–3 minutes per side, or until they develop a deep, golden-brown crust and reach your desired doneness. Once cooked, remove the steak from the skillet and allow it to rest on a plate. Resting is key—it allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the steak tender and juicy when combined with the pasta.

3. Make the Cowboy Butter Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium and return the skillet to the stovetop. Melt 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter in the same pan, which will have captured the flavorful browned bits from the steak. Add the minced garlic and cook for about one minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning. The garlic will infuse the butter with its aromatic flavor. Next, stir in the red pepper flakes for a subtle kick, Dijon mustard for depth and tang, and the juice of one lemon for brightness and acidity. Finish the sauce by adding freshly chopped parsley and chives. These herbs not only add vibrant color but also bring fresh, herbal notes that balance the richness of the butter.

4. Combine Everything

Return the cooked tortellini and steak bites to the skillet, gently tossing everything to coat evenly in the luscious cowboy butter sauce. Slowly add the reserved pasta water, a few tablespoons at a time, to achieve a smooth, glossy sauce that clings to each piece of tortellini and steak. Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until it melts completely, creating a creamy, velvety sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding a pinch of salt or more Cajun seasoning for extra flavor.

5. Serve

Plate the dish immediately while hot, ensuring each serving has a generous portion of steak bites and cheesy tortellini. Garnish with extra Parmesan, a sprinkle of fresh parsley, and a light dash of Cajun seasoning for color and added spice. Serving immediately ensures the pasta remains tender and the sauce silky. This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables, making for a complete, satisfying meal that’s both impressive and comforting.

Tips for the Perfect Cowboy Butter Tortellini Steak Bites

1. Choose the right steak: Ribeye and sirloin are ideal for this dish. Ribeye provides more marbling and flavor, while sirloin offers a leaner option that still sears beautifully.

2. Don’t skip drying the steak: Removing excess moisture ensures the steak develops a flavorful crust instead of steaming.

3. Use fresh herbs: Fresh parsley and chives brighten the dish and complement the richness of the butter sauce.

4. Customize your spice level: Adjust Cajun seasoning or red pepper flakes according to your preference. The sauce is bold, but you can make it milder for a family-friendly version.

5. Reserve pasta water: This helps achieve a creamy sauce that clings to both the pasta and steak. It’s the secret to that silky, restaurant-quality finish.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

Add Vegetables: For extra color and nutrition, toss in baby spinach, cherry tomatoes, or sautéed bell peppers just before serving. The warmth of the skillet slightly wilts the vegetables, creating a balanced dish.

Swap the Pasta: If tortellini isn’t available, try gnocchi, ravioli, or even penne. Just adjust cooking times as needed.

Make it a One-Pan Wonder: Serve the steak bites and tortellini over a bed of mashed potatoes or creamy polenta for a hearty variation.

Herb Variations: While parsley and chives work wonderfully, you can experiment with fresh thyme, rosemary, or basil for a different herbal twist.

Why This Recipe Works

This One-Pan Cowboy Butter Tortellini Steak Bites recipe is a perfect balance of rich, savory, and bright flavors. The seared steak provides the satisfying umami punch, while the cheese-filled tortellini adds creamy indulgence. Cowboy butter, with its combination of garlic, herbs, lemon, and butter, ties everything together beautifully.

The recipe is also highly approachable. Using one skillet minimizes cleanup, and the entire meal comes together in under 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Additionally, this dish is versatile enough to impress guests or serve as a comforting solo dinner, making it a reliable recipe to keep in your weekly rotation.

Meal Pairing Ideas

This cowboy butter dish is rich and flavorful, so consider pairing it with lighter sides to balance the meal:

• Crisp Garden Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette complements the buttery richness of the main dish.

• Roasted Vegetables: Oven-roasted asparagus, carrots, or zucchini add both color and nutrition.

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the remaining cowboy butter sauce, making every bite irresistible.

For drinks, stick with sparkling water or iced tea to keep the palate refreshed and ready for another hearty bite.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator: Store leftover steak bites and tortellini in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep pasta and sauce together to maintain flavor.

Reheating: Gently reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a little water or broth to revive the sauce’s creaminess. Avoid microwaving directly, as this can dry out the steak and make the sauce separate.

Freezing: While the dish is best fresh, you can freeze portions of the steak bites and tortellini separately. Reheat slowly in a skillet, adding pasta water or broth to restore texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: Ready in under 40 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.

• One-pan convenience: Minimal cleanup without sacrificing flavor.

• Bold flavor profile: Smoky, garlicky, herby, and zesty with a touch of heat.

• Versatile: Works with various steaks, pasta types, and vegetables.

• Impressively shareable: Ideal for family meals, dinner parties, or cozy nights in.

This dish is a celebration of flavors and textures, where each bite delivers a combination of juicy steak, creamy pasta, and rich, zesty sauce. It’s indulgent yet approachable, making it a versatile addition to your recipe repertoire.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the steak and sauce in advance and store them separately. Reheat gently, adding a splash of pasta water to maintain the sauce’s creaminess.

Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes! Frozen tortellini works just as well as fresh or refrigerated. Just follow the package instructions, and make sure to reserve pasta water for the sauce.

What’s the best way to achieve a good steak sear?
Pat the steak dry, use high heat, and avoid overcrowding the pan. Searing in batches if necessary ensures a beautiful caramelized crust.

Can I make it spicier?
Absolutely. Increase the red pepper flakes or Cajun seasoning for extra heat, or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.

One-Pan Cowboy Butter Tortellini Steak Bites Recipe

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• Author: Michelle Davis
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

This one-pan meal is a celebration of bold flavors and creamy comfort. Juicy, seared steak bites are paired with cheesy tortellini and tossed in a zesty cowboy butter sauce with garlic, smoked paprika, fresh herbs, and a splash of lemon. Quick to prepare and full of flavor, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests with minimal effort.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Steak Bites

• 1 ½ lbs sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into bite-sized cubes

• 1 tsp Cajun seasoning (or to taste)

• ½ tsp smoked paprika

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• Salt & black pepper, to taste

• 2 tbsp olive oil

For the Cowboy Butter Sauce

• 6 tbsp unsalted butter

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

• 1 tsp Dijon mustard

• Juice of 1 lemon

• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

• 1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped

For the Pasta

• 12 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or refrigerated)

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• ½ cup reserved pasta water

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Instructions

• Cook the Tortellini
  Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the tortellini according to the package directions until tender but still firm to the bite. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside. Cooking the pasta first ensures it’s ready to soak up the rich cowboy butter sauce once the steak is seared.

• Prepare the Steak Bites
  Pat the steak pieces dry with paper towels. Season the steak with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak bites for 2–3 minutes per side until browned and cooked to your preferred level of doneness. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside to rest.

• Make the Cowboy Butter Sauce
  Reduce heat to medium. Melt butter in the same skillet used for the steak. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in red pepper flakes, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Add parsley and chives, mixing well.

• Combine Everything
  Return the cooked tortellini and steak bites to the skillet. Toss until coated in the cowboy butter sauce. Add reserved pasta water as needed to create a silky, smooth sauce. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.

• Serve
  Plate the dish while hot. Garnish with extra Parmesan, freshly chopped parsley, and a sprinkle of Cajun seasoning for color and spice. Serve immediately.

Notes

• Adjust heat by increasing or decreasing Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes.

• Fresh herbs are recommended for the best flavor and color.

• Reserve pasta water to ensure a smooth, silky sauce.

• Serve immediately for optimal texture and taste.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes

Michelle Davis