Southern Steak & Broccoli Tortellini in Parmesan Sauce Recipe

There are few dishes that capture the essence of true comfort food like a creamy pasta skillet. Imagine tender cheese-filled tortellini, vibrant broccoli florets, and juicy steak bites, all wrapped in a luscious Parmesan cream sauce. This Southern Steak & Broccoli Tortellini in Parmesan Sauce is one of those recipes that feels indulgent yet approachable, perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends.

The inspiration behind this dish comes from blending Italian comfort with Southern-style heartiness. In the South, steak-and-potatoes suppers are a staple, often served with buttery sides and plenty of flavor. Here, the steak gets a new companion—pillowy tortellini and crisp broccoli—creating a skillet meal that is both elegant and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for family, hosting friends, or just treating yourself, this recipe guarantees a warm, cozy meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t just another pasta dinner—it’s a complete meal in one skillet. Here’s why it deserves a spot in your weekly rotation:

• Quick & Easy – Ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknights.

• Family-Friendly – Creamy, cheesy, and comforting flavors that appeal to adults and kids alike.

• Balanced & Hearty – Includes protein-rich steak, nutrient-packed broccoli, and carb-loaded tortellini.

• Versatile – Easy to swap veggies, change the pasta, or even use chicken instead of steak.

• Restaurant-Worthy – Tastes like a dish you’d order at a cozy bistro, but you can make it at home with simple ingredients.

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Ingredients

To create this comforting Southern pasta skillet, you’ll need the following:

• 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

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 cups broccoli florets

• 1 cup heavy cream

• ½ cup beef broth

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

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

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Directions

1. Cook the Tortellini & Broccoli

Start by bringing a large pot of well-salted water to a rolling boil. The salt is essential, as it infuses the pasta with flavor from the very beginning, ensuring every bite is seasoned rather than bland. Once the water is boiling, carefully add the cheese-filled tortellini. If you’re using fresh tortellini, it will only take about 3–5 minutes to cook, while frozen tortellini may take a couple of extra minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

About three minutes before the tortellini reaches al dente, add the broccoli florets directly into the boiling water with the pasta. This step allows the broccoli to cook just enough to become tender-crisp while retaining its bright green color and natural sweetness. Cooking them together not only saves time but also means one less dish to clean later. Once both the pasta and broccoli are perfectly cooked, drain them well and set aside. For best results, don’t rinse the tortellini—leaving the starch on the pasta helps the sauce cling beautifully.

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2. Sear the Steak

While the tortellini and broccoli are cooking, it’s time to prepare the steak. Begin by patting the steak pieces dry with paper towels. This may seem like a small step, but it’s crucial—removing excess moisture ensures the steak sears instead of steaming, giving you that delicious golden-brown crust. Season generously with salt, freshly cracked black pepper, and garlic powder to build flavor from the start.

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is shimmering and hot, carefully place the steak pieces in a single layer. Resist the urge to overcrowd the pan; giving the steak space ensures each piece caramelizes properly. Let the steak sear undisturbed for 1–2 minutes per side until a rich crust forms. The inside should remain juicy and tender while the outside develops bold flavor. Once seared, transfer the steak to a plate and set aside, leaving behind any browned bits in the skillet. These bits, known as fond, are packed with flavor and will enhance the cream sauce in the next step.

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3. Make the Parmesan Cream Sauce

Using the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the butter. As it melts, scrape gently at the browned bits from the steak—that’s where the deep, savory flavor lies. Add the minced garlic and sauté briefly, just until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Be careful not to let it burn, as garlic can quickly become bitter if overcooked.

Next, pour in the heavy cream and beef broth, stirring constantly to combine. The beef broth provides depth and balances the richness of the cream, ensuring the sauce isn’t too heavy. Add Italian seasoning for a subtle herbal note that ties the flavors together. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for 2–3 minutes. This short simmering time helps it thicken slightly while allowing the flavors to meld. If you prefer a thicker sauce, continue cooking for another minute or two until it coats the back of a spoon.

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4. Combine Everything

Now comes the most satisfying part—bringing all the elements together. Return the seared steak to the skillet, along with the cooked tortellini and broccoli. Toss everything gently so that the pasta, vegetables, and steak are fully coated in the creamy Parmesan sauce. As the tortellini soaks up the sauce, its cheesy filling mingles with the richness of the cream, creating layers of flavor in every bite.

Sprinkle in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts smoothly into the sauce. Parmesan doesn’t just add saltiness and nuttiness—it also thickens the sauce slightly, helping it cling perfectly to each piece of pasta and broccoli. Finally, stir in chopped fresh parsley for a pop of freshness that brightens the entire dish.

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5. Serve & Garnish

Once everything is well combined and piping hot, it’s time to serve. Spoon generous portions onto plates or into shallow bowls. Garnish with a little extra Parmesan and parsley on top for a restaurant-worthy presentation. The final sprinkle of cheese melts just slightly on the warm pasta, while the parsley adds color and a fresh, aromatic touch.

This dish pairs beautifully with warm garlic bread or crusty dinner rolls, perfect for soaking up any extra sauce. For a lighter balance, serve alongside a crisp green salad dressed with vinaigrette. Whether you’re enjoying this on a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend evening, the combination of creamy sauce, juicy steak, and vibrant broccoli will feel both indulgent and comforting.

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Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

• Yield: Serves 4

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Tips for the Best Southern Steak & Broccoli Tortellini

Choose the Right Steak

Ribeye and sirloin are excellent choices because they stay tender and flavorful when seared quickly. If you want a leaner option, flank steak works too—just slice it thinly against the grain.

Don’t Overcook the Tortellini

Fresh tortellini cooks very quickly, usually in 3–5 minutes. Overcooking can make them fall apart, so keep a close eye while boiling.

Keep the Broccoli Bright

Adding broccoli at the end of cooking ensures it retains its vibrant green color and crisp-tender bite. You don’t want mushy broccoli in your creamy sauce.

Balance the Sauce

The sauce should be rich but not overly heavy. If you prefer a lighter version, swap half the cream for whole milk. For extra creaminess, add a tablespoon of cream cheese.

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Variations to Try

This recipe is delicious as written, but it’s also highly customizable. Here are some ideas to adapt it to your taste:

• Chicken Variation: Swap steak for boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs.

• Seafood Twist: Use shrimp instead of steak for a lighter, coastal-inspired dish.

• Vegetable Boost: Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for more veggie power.

• Spicy Kick: Sprinkle red pepper flakes into the cream sauce for a bit of heat.

• Different Pasta: Try ravioli, penne, or fettuccine if tortellini isn’t available.

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What to Serve with Steak & Broccoli Tortellini

This skillet meal is filling on its own, but if you’re looking to complete your dinner table, here are some perfect pairings:

• Garlic Bread or Dinner Rolls – Perfect for soaking up extra Parmesan sauce.

• Simple Green Salad – A crisp salad with vinaigrette balances the richness.

• Roasted Vegetables – Carrots, asparagus, or green beans pair beautifully.

• Iced Tea or Lemon Water – A refreshing drink helps cut through the creamy sauce.

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Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

• Make-Ahead: You can cook the tortellini and broccoli ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Reheat gently in the sauce.

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving steak for too long, as it can dry out.

• Freezing: It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the sauce separately. Cook fresh tortellini when ready to serve.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes! Frozen tortellini works perfectly. Just add an extra minute or two to the boiling time.

What cut of steak works best?
Ribeye is flavorful and juicy, while sirloin offers a more affordable but still tender option. Both work beautifully in this recipe.

Can I make this sauce lighter?
Yes, substitute half the cream with whole milk or evaporated milk for a lighter but still creamy sauce.

Can I meal prep this recipe?
It’s best fresh, but you can prep the steak and veggies ahead of time, then quickly assemble everything when you’re ready to eat.

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