Description
There’s nothing quite like a comforting pasta dinner after a long day, and this Creamy Beef & Spinach Tortellini delivers everything you crave in a cozy meal. Tender cheese-filled tortellini is tossed with seasoned ground beef, fresh spinach, and a rich, velvety sauce that comes together in just 30 minutes. It’s perfect for family dinners, casual date nights, or anytime you want something hearty and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
1 ½ cups heavy cream
½ cup beef broth
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 (20 oz) package cheese tortellini
1 tablespoon butter
1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
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Add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
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Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 1–2 minutes.
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Pour in the heavy cream and beef broth. Stir, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any browned bits. Let simmer for 3–4 minutes.
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Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. If a thicker sauce is desired, mix cornstarch with a tablespoon of water and add to the skillet.
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Add the cooked tortellini and butter to the sauce, stirring gently until coated. Let simmer for 2–3 minutes over low heat so the flavors blend.
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Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.
Notes
Use lean ground beef (85–90%) for the best flavor and texture.
Substitute spinach with kale, Swiss chard, or arugula if desired.
For a lighter version, replace heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream.
Reheat leftovers gently with a splash of milk or broth to restore the sauce’s creaminess.
Serve with garlic bread or a green salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes