Mediterranean-Style Creamy Beef & Tortellini Pasta
This rich and creamy Mediterranean-inspired pasta dish combines tender beef, cheese-filled tortellini, and a flavorful, aromatic sauce with Mediterranean herbs and spices. It’s a comforting yet elevated meal that’s perfect for any occasion!
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the Pasta & Beef:
10 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
1 lb beef sirloin or ribeye, thinly sliced
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp butter
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp ground cumin
½ tsp dried oregano
Salt & black pepper to taste
For the Creamy Sauce:
1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
½ cup beef broth
½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp tomato paste
½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
For Garnish:
Fresh parsley, chopped
Grated Parmesan cheese
A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
Cook the Tortellini:
Boil tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Sear the Beef:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add sliced beef and season with salt, black pepper, paprika, cumin, and oregano.
Sear until browned (about 2–3 minutes per side). Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, melt butter and add onions, garlic, and bell peppers.
Cook for 3 minutes until softened.
Make the Creamy Sauce:
Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, tomato paste, and Dijon mustard.
Pour in beef broth and heavy cream, stirring until combined.
Let simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
Stir in Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes.
Combine Everything:
Add cooked tortellini and beef back into the skillet. Toss gently to coat everything in the sauce.
Simmer for 2 more minutes.
Serve & Garnish:
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.
Drizzle with a bit of extra virgin olive oil for added richness.
Tips for the Best Flavor
Use high-quality beef and slice it thin for quick cooking.
Fresh tortellini works best for a soft, creamy texture.
Let the sauce simmer to allow the flavors to develop fully.
Add artichokes or olives for extra Mediterranean flair.
Nutritional Value (Per Serving)
Calories: ~650 kcal
Protein: ~38g
Carbs: ~50g
Fats: ~32g (healthy fats from olive oil & Parmesan)
Rich in calcium, iron, and antioxidants