Name: Beef & Parmesan Tortellini in Creamy Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Comfort / Italian‑Inspired
Ingredients: 12 oz cheese tortellini (fresh, refrigerated, or frozen); 1 tbsp olive oil or butter; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 12 oz ground beef; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning or dried herbs (optional); 1 cup heavy cream (or thickened cream / half‑and‑half); 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Beef & Parmesan Tortellini in Creamy Sauce is a hearty, satisfying meal that’s packed with flavor and comes together in one comforting pan. Tender cheese-filled tortellini are tossed with savory ground beef and coated in a rich, garlicky parmesan cream sauce. I love how this dish feels indulgent yet easy enough for any night of the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe brings together the best of both worlds — cheesy pasta and a creamy beef sauce. It’s fast, filling, and incredibly cozy. Everything cooks in one pan, which means less cleanup for me and more time to enjoy the meal. Plus, the creamy parmesan sauce clings to every bite of tortellini, making it extra satisfying. Beef & Parmesan Tortellini in Creamy Sauce

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Refrigerated or frozen cheese tortellini
Ground beef
Onion, finely chopped
Garlic, minced
Olive oil or butter
Heavy cream or thickened cream
Grated Parmesan cheese
Salt
Black pepper
Italian seasoning or dried herbs (optional)
Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Directions

I cook the tortellini according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, I heat a bit of oil or butter over medium heat and sauté the chopped onion until soft. I add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds more.
I add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. I season it with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Once the beef is cooked through, I pour in the cream and bring it to a gentle simmer.
I stir in the grated Parmesan and let the sauce thicken slightly, about 2–3 minutes.
I add the cooked tortellini to the sauce, gently tossing to coat.
I let everything simmer together for another 2–3 minutes so the flavors combine.
I garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot, with extra parmesan on top if I’m feeling fancy.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

I sometimes use spinach or mushroom tortellini instead of cheese-filled for a little twist. For a spicier version, I add red pepper flakes or swap in Italian sausage for the ground beef. If I want more veggies, I stir in baby spinach or peas right at the end. And for an even richer flavor, I splash in a little white wine before adding the cream.

Storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm it in a pan with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce. It also reheats well in the microwave — I just stir halfway through to make sure it’s evenly heated. Beef & Parmesan Tortellini in Creamy Sauce

FAQs

Can I use frozen tortellini?

Yes, I’ve made this with frozen tortellini many times. I just cook them according to the package instructions before adding them to the sauce.

Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but the sauce will be slightly thinner. I sometimes add a bit more parmesan to thicken it if needed.

Does this dish freeze well?

I don’t usually freeze it, since creamy sauces can separate when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days from the fridge.

Can I make this without beef?

Absolutely. I’ve made a vegetarian version by skipping the beef and adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach for texture and flavor.

What can I serve with this?

I serve it with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables and some crusty bread to mop up the creamy sauce.

Conclusion

Beef & Parmesan Tortellini in Creamy Sauce is the kind of meal I make when I want something warm, filling, and full of flavor — fast. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with tender tortellini and savory beef, all tossed in a rich parmesan sauce. Whether I’m feeding the family or just treating myself to comfort food, this recipe never fails to satisfy.