Name: Creamy Beef Tortellini Alfredo
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb beef tortellini (fresh or frozen); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1/2 lb ground beef; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1 tablespoon butter; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Short Description

Creamy Beef Tortellini Alfredo is a rich and comforting pasta dish that combines tender beef tortellini with a savory, seasoned ground beef Alfredo sauce. Made with heavy cream, garlic, Parmesan, and a hint of nutmeg, this 25-minute meal is a family-friendly favorite perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: Ready in just 25 minutes using simple, everyday ingredients.
Hearty and Filling: Combines pasta, beef, and cream for a satisfying one-pan dinner.
Creamy and Flavorful: The rich Alfredo-style sauce is enhanced with garlic, Parmesan, and nutmeg.
Versatile: Great with fresh or frozen tortellini and easy to customize with vegetables or different proteins.
Family Approved: A comforting and kid-friendly dish that’s sure to become a regular in your meal rotation.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb beef tortellini (fresh or frozen)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 lb ground beef
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 tablespoon butter
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

Cook the Tortellini
Prepare the beef tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Brown the Beef
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until fully browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain any excess fat.
Add Garlic
Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes, just until fragrant.
Make the Alfredo Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt and thicken the sauce.
Season
Add salt, black pepper, and ground nutmeg. Stir well to combine and adjust seasoning to taste.
Combine with Tortellini
Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet and gently toss to coat with the sauce.
Finish and Serve
Stir in the butter for added richness. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

Add Vegetables: Stir in peas, spinach, or sautéed mushrooms for added color and nutrition.
Different Meats: Substitute ground beef with Italian sausage, ground turkey, or shredded rotisserie chicken.
Cheese Boost: Mix in a blend of Italian cheeses for more depth.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for heat.
Low-Carb Version: Serve the beef Alfredo sauce over steamed vegetables or zucchini noodles.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Not recommended, as cream-based sauces may separate when thawed.
Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

Can I use refrigerated tortellini instead of frozen?

Yes, both fresh and frozen tortellini work well in this recipe. Just follow the package cooking instructions.

What’s the best way to thicken the Alfredo sauce?

Allow the sauce to simmer gently and reduce slightly before adding the cheese. The Parmesan will help it thicken naturally.

Is nutmeg necessary?

Nutmeg adds warmth and enhances the creamy sauce but can be omitted if preferred.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the components ahead and combine just before serving for the freshest flavor.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

Use half-and-half or whole milk with a little extra butter or cream cheese for richness.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free tortellini and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

What kind of Parmesan is best?

Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts more smoothly than pre-shredded varieties.

Can I use pre-cooked beef?

Yes, just warm it with the garlic before continuing with the sauce.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Yes, it’s creamy, mild, and generally appealing to kids.

Can I serve this with a side?

A crisp green salad or garlic bread pairs perfectly with this rich pasta dish.

Conclusion

Creamy Beef Tortellini Alfredo is a cozy, satisfying meal that brings restaurant-quality flavor to your home kitchen in just 25 minutes. With its rich sauce, tender tortellini, and savory beef, it’s the ultimate comfort food that’s easy to make and sure to impress. Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend indulgence.

Creamy Beef Tortellini Alfredo

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Author: Douaa
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4-servings

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Description

Indulge in the rich, savory comfort of Creamy Beef Tortellini Alfredo—a quick and hearty pasta dish made with tender beef tortellini, a velvety Parmesan Alfredo sauce, and perfectly seasoned ground beef. It’s a weeknight dinner winner packed with flavor and ready in under 30 minutes!

Instructions

Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
Add garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Stir in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Add Parmesan and mix until melted and smooth.
Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
Toss cooked tortellini in the sauce until well coated.
Stir in butter, remove from heat, and garnish with parsley.

Notes

Use Italian sausage instead of ground beef for added spice.
Add spinach or mushrooms for extra texture and nutrition.
Great served with garlic bread or a fresh salad.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Sautéing, Boiling
Cuisine: American