Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Skillet Beef Stroganoff Tortellini in Creamy Parmesan Sauce is the kind of recipe that earns a permanent spot in your weeknight rotation. It combines the nostalgic comfort of classic beef stroganoff with the convenience and heartiness of cheese-filled tortellini, all made in one skillet. I appreciate recipes like this because they strike the perfect balance between indulgence and practicality. The beef is deeply savory, the sauce is rich without being heavy, and the tortellini soak up every bit of that creamy Parmesan goodness. I tested this recipe with both fresh and refrigerated tortellini, and both worked beautifully, making it adaptable to what you have on hand. Best of all, cleanup is minimal, which makes this dish ideal for busy evenings when you still want something homemade and satisfying.
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Skillet Beef Stroganoff Tortellini in Creamy Parmesan Sauce – A One-Pan Comfort Dinner
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Low Lactose
Description
A hearty one-pan meal combining tender beef, cheese-filled tortellini, and mushrooms in a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce inspired by classic stroganoff flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 lb beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 10 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or refrigerated)
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced beef and sear until browned. Remove beef and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
- Add garlic and mushrooms, cooking until mushrooms are tender and lightly browned.
- Sprinkle flour, paprika, salt, and pepper over the vegetables and stir well to coat.
- Slowly pour in beef broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add tortellini and cook according to package instructions, stirring occasionally.
- Lower heat and stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Return beef to the skillet and simmer for 3–5 minutes until heated through.
- Remove from heat and stir in sour cream. Garnish with parsley if desired and serve hot.
Notes
- Use fresh tortellini for the best texture.
- You can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a lighter option.
- Add a splash of pasta water if the sauce becomes too thick.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Beef sirloin or lean ground beef forms the hearty base of this dish. Sirloin delivers tender slices, while ground beef offers a quicker, budget-friendly option with excellent flavor absorption.
Cheese tortellini brings structure and richness. The filled pasta replaces traditional egg noodles and adds a creamy interior that complements the sauce.
Butter provides the initial layer of richness and helps brown the beef evenly, creating a flavorful foundation.
Onion adds subtle sweetness and depth as it softens and melds into the sauce.
Garlic enhances the savory profile and balances the creaminess with aromatic sharpness.
Mushrooms contribute earthiness and texture, echoing the traditional stroganoff flavor profile.
Beef broth deglazes the skillet and builds a robust, savory sauce base.
Heavy cream creates the signature silky texture that defines this dish.
Parmesan cheese adds saltiness and umami, thickening the sauce naturally as it melts.
Dijon mustard introduces gentle tang and complexity without overpowering the dish.
Paprika provides warmth and subtle smokiness.
Salt and black pepper are essential for seasoning and balance.
Fresh parsley, added at the end, brightens the dish and adds a clean finish.
Directions
Begin by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat and melting the butter until foamy. Add the beef and cook until well browned, breaking it apart or searing slices depending on your cut. Remove excess fat if necessary. Add the onion and cook until softened, followed by garlic and mushrooms, allowing them to release moisture and develop color.
Deglaze the skillet with beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Stir in the paprika and Dijon mustard, then reduce heat to medium. Add the tortellini directly to the skillet and allow it to simmer gently, ensuring the pasta cooks evenly in the sauce.
Once the tortellini is tender, pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Allow the sauce to thicken slightly before adding Parmesan cheese. Stir until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Finish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Equipment needed
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
- Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
- Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
- Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
- Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
- 9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
- Foil or a tight lid – To cover the dish while baking and trap in all that saucy steam.
- Spoon or scoop – Helps portion the filling without overstuffing each roll.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields 4 generous servings. Preparation takes approximately 10 minutes, while cooking time is about 25 minutes, making it a complete meal in roughly 35 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce. Avoid high heat to prevent separation.
Variations and Customizations
This recipe is incredibly adaptable. For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream. I have also tested it with almond milk combined with a teaspoon of cornstarch, which worked surprisingly well for a dairy-light option. Swap beef for chicken or mushrooms alone for a vegetarian twist. Add spinach at the end for extra color and nutrition. For deeper flavor, a splash of Worcestershire sauce or sour cream can be stirred in just before serving.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
This dish is rich in protein and calcium thanks to the beef, cheese, and cream. While indulgent, it can be balanced with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables. Using lean beef and reduced-fat dairy can slightly lower the calorie content without sacrificing flavor.
Expert Tips & Customizations
Perfect Beef Browning
Allow the beef to sear undisturbed before stirring to maximize flavor development.
Sauce Consistency Control
If the sauce thickens too much, add warm broth gradually until desired texture is reached.
Pasta Choice Matters
Fresh tortellini cooks faster than frozen; adjust simmering time accordingly.
Flavor Boost
Grate Parmesan fresh rather than using pre-shredded cheese for smoother melting.
FAQs
Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes, add a few extra minutes of simmering time and ensure the pasta is fully tender.
What cut of beef works best?
Sirloin or ground beef both work well depending on preference.
Can I make this ahead?
It is best fresh but reheats well with added liquid.
Is sour cream traditional?
Yes, and it can be added for extra tang if desired.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Freezing is not recommended due to the cream-based sauce.
How do I prevent sauce separation?
Use low heat when reheating and stir frequently.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free tortellini and check broth labels.
Is Parmesan essential?
It adds depth, but Pecorino Romano is a suitable substitute.
Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely, peas or spinach work particularly well.
What should I serve with this?
A crisp green salad or roasted vegetables pair nicely.
Conclusion
Skillet Beef Stroganoff Tortellini in Creamy Parmesan Sauce is a comforting, practical dish that delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort. Its versatility, rich texture, and one-pan convenience make it ideal for both busy weeknights and relaxed family dinners.
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