Description
Beef Tortellini with Vegetables
Ingredients:
250g beef steak, cut into cubes
200g cheese tortellini
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
1 tbsp olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add beef cubes and sear until browned. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, sauté garlic until fragrant, then add bell peppers and cook until slightly tender.
4. Return the beef to the skillet and season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
5. Toss the cooked tortellini with the beef and vegetable mixture. Cook for 2-3 minutes to combine flavors.
6. Garnish with grated Parmesan and fresh parsley. Serve warm.
#BeefTortellini #ComfortFood
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect one-pan meal. First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil for the tortellini. While it heats, pat your beef cubes dry with a paper towel—this is crucial for a good sear. Season the beef generously with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding, and sear for 2-3 minutes per side until a brown crust forms. Remove the beef to a plate; it will finish cooking later. Reduce the heat to medium, add the minced garlic to the skillet, and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the chopped bell peppers and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften and caramelize.
By this time, your water should be boiling. Cook the tortellini according to the package directions, but reduce the cooking time by 1 minute as it will finish in the skillet. Drain the tortellini, reserving 1/4 cup of the pasta water. Return the seared beef and any accumulated juices to the skillet with the peppers. Add the drained tortellini, Italian seasoning, and a splash of the reserved pasta water. Toss everything together and cook for 2-3 more minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty dish is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a simple side salad of arugula with a lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a more formal presentation, serve it in shallow bowls with an extra sprinkle of high-quality Parmesan cheese and a generous garnish of fresh parsley or basil. A slice of crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any remaining savory juices.
How-to Summary
Sear seasoned beef cubes and set aside. Sauté garlic and bell peppers in the same pan. Cook tortellini separately, draining and reserving some pasta water. Combine everything back in the skillet with seasonings and a splash of pasta water. Toss and heat through. Garnish with Parmesan and parsley.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different protein? Absolutely. Chicken breast, Italian sausage, or even large shrimp are excellent substitutes for the beef. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
What if I can’t find cheese tortellini? Any fresh or dried tortellini or ravioli will work. Spinach and cheese or mushroom varieties add a lovely flavor.
How do I prevent the dish from becoming dry? The key is the reserved starchy pasta water. It helps create a light sauce that coats the tortellini and beef without making the dish soggy.
Can I make this ahead of time? For best results, serve immediately. However, you can prep the vegetables and beef ahead. Reheat gently in a skillet with a touch of broth or water to refresh.
What other vegetables can I add? This recipe is versatile. Sliced mushrooms, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes would be delicious additions. Add them with the bell peppers.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcrowding the skillet when searing the beef, as this steams the meat instead of creating a flavorful crust. Do not overcook the tortellini in the boiling stage, as it will become mushy when combined in the skillet. Finally, do not skip salting the pasta water—it’s essential for seasoning the tortellini itself.
Conclusion
This Beef Tortellini with Vegetables is a testament to how simple ingredients can create a deeply satisfying and elegant meal in under 30 minutes. The combination of savory seared beef, tender pasta, and sweet peppers, all brought together with classic Italian seasoning, is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s a versatile recipe that encourages customization, making it a perfect addition to your weekly dinner rotation. Enjoy the process and the delicious result!