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.
Ingredients
For the Steak Bites
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1 ½ lbs sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into bite-sized cubes
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1 tsp Cajun seasoning (or to taste)
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½ tsp smoked paprika
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½ tsp garlic powder
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Salt & black pepper, to taste
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2 tbsp olive oil
For the Cowboy Butter Sauce
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6 tbsp unsalted butter
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
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1 tsp Dijon mustard
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Juice of 1 lemon
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2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
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1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
For the Pasta
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12 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or refrigerated)
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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½ cup reserved pasta water
Instructions
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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
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Adjust heat by increasing or decreasing Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes.
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Fresh herbs are recommended for the best flavor and color.
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Reserve pasta water to ensure a smooth, silky sauce.
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Serve immediately for optimal texture and taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes