Name: Garlic Butter Tortellini in Creamy Sauce with Beef, Italian Sausage & Spinach
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 500 g cheese tortellini; 200 g ground beef; 200 g Italian sausage; 150 g fresh spinach; 4 tbsp butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 tsp Italian herbs

Craving a pasta dish that feels indulgent yet comforting? Garlic Butter Tortellini in Creamy Sauce with Beef, Italian Sausage & Spinach delivers just that—plump, cheesy tortellini coated in a velvety garlic butter cream sauce, studded with juicy beef and sausage, and balanced with fresh spinach.

It’s the kind of dish that feels special enough for a weekend dinner but simple enough to pull together on a busy weeknight. Rich, savory, and aromatic, it’s comfort food with a touch of elegance.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make this recipe effortless, choose tools that help you cook efficiently. Use a large non-stick skillet for browning meats evenly and keeping all those flavorful bits for the sauce. A deep saucepan is perfect for boiling tortellini without crowding. A wooden spoon will help you stir gently, ensuring a smooth sauce without scratching your pans. Lastly, a colander makes draining pasta quick, with the option to save a little pasta water for adjusting the sauce’s texture.

Ingredients for Garlic Butter Tortellini in Creamy Sauce with Beef, Italian Sausage & Spinach

Cheese Tortellini – The heart of the dish, tender pasta pockets filled with cheese.
Ground Beef – Adds hearty flavor and richness.
Italian Sausage – Brings a savory, spiced depth.
Fresh Spinach – Balances the richness with freshness.
Butter – The base for the garlic sauce, adding silky texture.
Garlic – Infuses the sauce with irresistible aroma.
Heavy Cream – Creates a luscious, creamy coating.
Parmesan Cheese – Adds sharp, salty richness.
Seasonings – Salt, pepper, and Italian herbs for flavor balance.

How to Make Garlic Butter Tortellini in Creamy Sauce with Beef, Italian Sausage & Spinach

Step 1: Brown the Meats

In a large skillet, cook ground beef and Italian sausage over medium heat until browned. Break into small pieces as they cook. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 2: Cook the Tortellini

In a deep saucepan, bring salted water to a boil. Add tortellini and cook according to package instructions. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Base

In the skillet with the meats, add butter and minced garlic. Cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 4: Build the Cream Sauce

Pour in heavy cream and stir, scraping up any browned bits. Simmer until slightly thickened.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add cooked tortellini and fresh spinach to the skillet. Toss gently, allowing spinach to wilt. Stir in Parmesan and adjust seasoning. Add pasta water if needed for consistency.

Serving and Storing Garlic Butter Tortellini

Serve hot with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. For storage, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or milk to restore the sauce’s creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen tortellini?

Yes, just cook according to package instructions.

What can I substitute for spinach?

Kale or arugula work well for a slightly different flavor.

Can I make this ahead?

You can cook the meats and sauce in advance, then reheat and add tortellini before serving.

How do I make it lighter?

Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the butter slightly.

Will chicken work instead of beef and sausage?

Yes, ground chicken or diced chicken breast are great alternatives.

Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

You might also enjoy the Delicious Beef Bowtie Pasta for a hearty yet simple meal. For something with a bit of spice, try the Spicy Rattlesnake Pasta. If creamy sauces are your style, the Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni will be a hit.

For an easy family favorite, the Best Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti delivers cheesy comfort in every bite. And for a one-pot option, Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a flavorful weeknight winner.

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If you make this dish, I’d love to hear your twist on it—did you use a different green, add mushrooms, or spice up the sauce? Leave a comment or tag me on Pinterest at LadyPlate.

Garlic Butter Tortellini in Creamy Sauce with Beef, Italian Sausage & Spinach

Author: Julia Koch
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

Cheese-filled tortellini tossed in a creamy garlic butter sauce with savory beef, spiced Italian sausage, and fresh spinach for a comforting yet elegant pasta dinner.

Instructions

1. In a large skillet, cook ground beef and Italian sausage over medium heat until browned, breaking into small pieces. Drain excess fat.

2. In a deep saucepan, bring salted water to a boil. Add tortellini and cook according to package instructions. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.

3. Add butter and minced garlic to the skillet with the meats. Cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

4. Pour in heavy cream, stir, and simmer until slightly thickened.

5. Add tortellini and spinach to the skillet. Toss gently until spinach wilts.

6. Stir in Parmesan cheese, season with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. Adjust sauce with reserved pasta water if needed.