Cowboy Butter Parmesan Tortellini with Steak, Spinach & Mushrooms Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that balances bold flavors with creamy comfort, look no further than this Cowboy Butter Parmesan Tortellini with Steak, Spinach & Mushrooms. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a weekend treat, this recipe combines tender cheese tortellini, juicy steak, earthy mushrooms, and fresh spinach, all enveloped in a luxurious cowboy butter Parmesan sauce. It’s a meal that feels indulgent without being complicated, and it’s ready in just 30 minutes—ideal for anyone who craves restaurant-quality comfort food at home.

The inspiration for this dish comes from a love of Southern-inspired buttery sauces and the desire to combine them with classic Italian elements. Cowboy butter, traditionally rich with garlic and herbs, pairs beautifully with Parmesan cheese to create a decadent coating for pasta and steak. Adding spinach and mushrooms not only introduces depth of flavor but also brightens the dish with a touch of freshness and earthy richness. Every bite delivers a perfect balance of creamy, savory, and slightly smoky flavors that will make this recipe a family favorite.

Ingredients

• 12 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)

• 1 lb sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into bite-sized pieces

• Salt & black pepper, to taste

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 3 tbsp unsalted butter (for sauce)

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 8 oz mushrooms, sliced

• 2 cups fresh spinach

• ½ cup heavy cream

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)

Directions

1. Cook the Tortellini

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Using enough water ensures the tortellini has room to cook evenly and prevents them from sticking together. Once the water is boiling, carefully add the cheese tortellini. Fresh tortellini will cook faster, typically in 2–4 minutes, while frozen varieties may take 4–6 minutes depending on the brand. It’s important to follow the package directions, but also to taste a piece near the end of cooking to ensure it is al dente—tender yet slightly firm to the bite. Overcooked tortellini can become mushy and break apart when tossed with the sauce, so timing is key.

Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander, but don’t forget to reserve about a half-cup of the pasta water. This starchy water can be added later to loosen the sauce if it becomes too thick, ensuring a silky, smooth coating over the tortellini. Set the pasta aside while you move on to preparing the steak. Taking this step seriously makes a big difference in the final texture and presentation of the dish.

2. Sear the Steak

While the tortellini is cooking, season your bite-sized pieces of sirloin or ribeye with salt, freshly cracked black pepper, and garlic powder. This simple seasoning highlights the natural flavor of the steak and enhances the richness of the sauce. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. To get a proper sear, avoid overcrowding the pan, which can cause the steak to steam instead of brown.

Add the steak pieces in a single layer and sear for 1–2 minutes on each side, or until a golden-brown crust forms. The high heat quickly locks in the juices, keeping the steak tender and flavorful. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside on a plate. The steak will finish cooking slightly when combined with the sauce later, so don’t worry if it isn’t fully done in the skillet. Searing correctly ensures each bite is juicy, flavorful, and perfectly caramelized.

3. Sauté Mushrooms & Spinach

Using the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Adding butter after cooking the steak allows it to absorb the remaining flavors left in the pan, creating a rich foundation for the sauce. Add the minced garlic first, letting it cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, but be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can turn bitter.

Next, add the sliced mushrooms. Sauté them, stirring occasionally, until they are tender and golden brown. The mushrooms not only add an earthy flavor but also a meaty texture that complements the steak. Once the mushrooms are cooked, add the fresh spinach. Stir until the spinach wilts, which usually takes just a minute or two. Wilted spinach adds a pop of color and a subtle freshness that balances the richness of the sauce, making the dish more vibrant both visually and flavor-wise.

4. Make the Cowboy Butter Parmesan Sauce

Lower the heat slightly and pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine it with the butter, garlic, mushrooms, and spinach. Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan, smoked paprika, and Italian seasoning. The Parmesan melts into the cream, thickening it and giving the sauce a savory, nutty depth. Smoked paprika adds a subtle warmth and complexity, elevating the overall flavor profile.

Allow the sauce to simmer gently for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reaches a creamy consistency. Be careful not to let it boil rapidly, which could cause the cream to separate. This step is where the sauce transforms from a simple cream mixture into a luscious cowboy butter Parmesan coating that will envelop the steak and tortellini beautifully.

5. Combine Everything

Return the seared steak and cooked tortellini to the skillet. Gently toss everything so that the steak, tortellini, and vegetables are evenly coated in the sauce. If the sauce appears too thick, add a small splash of the reserved pasta water, stirring until it reaches your desired consistency. This step is crucial for creating a cohesive dish where every bite is creamy and flavorful.

As you toss the ingredients together, you’ll notice the colors intensifying: the golden-brown steak, bright green spinach, and earthy mushrooms all coated in a glossy sauce. The aroma at this stage is irresistible, with garlic, Parmesan, and butter mingling in perfect harmony. Take a moment to appreciate the transformation happening in your skillet—this is comfort food at its finest.

6. Serve & Garnish

Transfer the finished tortellini, steak, and vegetables to a large serving dish or individual plates. Garnish generously with chopped fresh parsley and an additional sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. The parsley adds a fresh, herbaceous note, while the extra Parmesan reinforces the creamy, cheesy flavor.

Serve hot, straight from the pan, for a restaurant-quality presentation at home. Each bite delivers a perfect combination of textures and flavors: tender pasta, juicy steak, earthy mushrooms, fresh spinach, and a decadent, creamy sauce that ties everything together. Not only does this final step enhance the visual appeal, but it also ensures that every bite is as satisfying as the first.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

• Yield: 4 servings

Why This Recipe Works

This Cowboy Butter Parmesan Tortellini dish hits all the right notes:

1. Flavor Balance: The richness of the cowboy butter Parmesan sauce pairs perfectly with the juicy steak, earthy mushrooms, and tender tortellini.

2. Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights without sacrificing flavor.

3. Versatile Ingredients: You can swap the tortellini for ravioli or penne, or replace spinach with kale for variation.

4. Family-Friendly: This dish is hearty enough to satisfy even the pickiest eaters.

5. Impressive Presentation: The combination of colorful vegetables, golden-brown steak, and creamy sauce makes it look gourmet even though it’s simple to make.

Tips for the Perfect Cowboy Butter Parmesan Tortellini

• Choose the Right Steak: Ribeye or sirloin works best because of their flavor and tenderness. Avoid leaner cuts like round steak, which can be tougher when cooked quickly.

• Fresh vs. Frozen Tortellini: Fresh tortellini will cook faster and have a softer texture, but frozen works just as well. Just follow the package instructions.

• Don’t Overcook Mushrooms: Sauté until golden and tender. Overcooking can make them mushy and reduce their flavor.

• Customize the Sauce: Feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat, or a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors.

• Make Ahead Tip: You can prep the steak and vegetables in advance, then toss everything together with the sauce just before serving for a quick, last-minute dinner.

Pairing Suggestions

This dish is rich and hearty, so pairing it with lighter sides helps balance the meal:

• Garlic Bread or Herbed Rolls: Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.

• Simple Green Salad: A crisp salad with a light vinaigrette adds freshness.

• Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers complement the earthiness of the mushrooms and spinach.

• Wine Alternative: A sparkling water with a splash of lemon or an herbal iced tea can elevate the dining experience without alcohol.

Health and Nutrition Notes

While this dish is indulgent, there are ways to make it a little lighter without losing flavor:

• Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or a creamy plant-based alternative.

• Use whole wheat or spinach tortellini for extra fiber.

• Add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrients and color.

• Reduce the amount of butter slightly or use a combination of butter and olive oil.

Variations to Try

1. Spicy Cowboy Butter Tortellini: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a little kick.

2. Chicken Version: Substitute the steak with bite-sized chicken breast or thighs for a different protein profile.

3. Cheese Lover’s Dream: Mix in mozzarella or fontina cheese along with the Parmesan for extra creaminess.

4. Vegetarian Option: Skip the steak and add extra mushrooms, zucchini, or roasted red peppers. The sauce is rich enough to make this satisfying on its own.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the steak, mushrooms, and sauce in advance. Store separately and combine just before serving to maintain the freshness and texture.

2. Can I freeze this pasta?
While you can freeze cooked tortellini and sauce, the texture may change slightly upon reheating. For best results, freeze components separately and assemble after thawing.

3. Can I use a different cheese?
Parmesan is recommended for its sharp, nutty flavor, but Pecorino Romano or Asiago can be used for a slightly different taste.

4. How can I make it dairy-free?
Use a plant-based cream and a dairy-free Parmesan substitute. The flavor won’t be identical but will still be creamy and delicious.

Cowboy Butter Parmesan Tortellini with Steak, Spinach & Mushrooms Recipe

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• Author: Michelle Davis
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

This creamy, indulgent dish is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special weekend meal. Juicy steak, tender cheese tortellini, earthy mushrooms, and fresh spinach are tossed in a rich cowboy butter Parmesan sauce that’s bursting with flavor. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s comfort food at its finest—easy to prepare, satisfying, and impressive enough to serve to guests. The combination of buttery sauce, savory Parmesan, and perfectly seared steak creates a dish that’s both hearty and luxurious, making every bite unforgettable.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 12 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)

• 1 lb sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into bite-sized pieces

• Salt & black pepper, to taste

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 3 tbsp unsalted butter (for sauce)

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 8 oz mushrooms, sliced

• 2 cups fresh spinach

• ½ cup heavy cream

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)

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Instructions

• Cook the Tortellini
  Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to the package directions until tender and al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside, reserving a small cup of pasta water in case you want to loosen the sauce later.

• Sear the Steak
  Season bite-sized pieces of sirloin or ribeye with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak in batches if necessary for 1–2 minutes per side until a golden-brown crust forms. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.

• Sauté Mushrooms & Spinach
  In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sliced mushrooms, sautéing until the mushrooms are golden brown and tender. Stir in fresh spinach and cook just until wilted.

• Make the Cowboy Butter Parmesan Sauce
  Reduce the heat slightly and pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Sprinkle in grated Parmesan, smoked paprika, and Italian seasoning. Simmer gently for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy.

• Combine Everything
  Return the seared steak and cooked tortellini to the skillet. Toss carefully so that the pasta and meat are evenly coated in the sauce. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.

• Serve & Garnish
  Transfer to serving plates or a large dish. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve hot.

Notes

• Use ribeye or sirloin for the best flavor and tenderness.

• Fresh tortellini cooks faster, but frozen works just as well.

• Reserve pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency if needed.

• Add extra vegetables, like zucchini or bell peppers, for more color and nutrients.

• Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; reheat gently in a skillet.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes

Michelle Davis