Description
Creamy Beef Tortellini Stew
Ingredients
For the Stew:
1 lb beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tbsp olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
4 cups beef broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Tortellini:
10 oz cheese tortellini
Optional Garnish:
Grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
Sear the Beef:
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Season the beef with salt and pepper, then sear until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
Sauté the Garlic:
In the same pot, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Simmer the Stew:
Add beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and heavy cream to the pot. Stir well, then return the seared beef to the pot.
Cover and let simmer on low heat for 45 minutes, or until the beef is tender.
Cook the Tortellini:
Add the tortellini to the pot and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Serve:
Ladle the creamy stew into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan and fresh parsley.
This hearty, comforting dish is perfect for a cozy dinner! The tender beef and cheesy tortellini make every bite satisfying.
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results every time. First, ensure your beef stew meat is patted completely dry before seasoning; this is crucial for a proper sear. Heat the olive oil in your Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot until it shimmers. Sear the beef in a single layer, working in batches if needed, to develop a deep, flavorful fond on the pot’s bottom. After removing the beef, reduce the heat to medium before adding the garlic to prevent burning. When simmering, maintain a gentle bubble—a vigorous boil may cause the cream to separate. The stew is ready for the tortellini when the beef is fork-tender.
Serving Suggestions
This rich stew is a complete meal but can be elevated with simple sides. Serve it with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess. A slice of crusty garlic bread or a warm, buttery dinner roll is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce. For a heartier spread, pair it with roasted seasonal vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts.
How-to Summary
In summary: Sear seasoned beef until browned. Sauté garlic briefly. Combine broth, cream, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce with the beef, then simmer for 45 minutes until beef is tender. Add tortellini and cook for 8-10 more minutes. Garnish and serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this stew ahead of time? Yes, but cook the tortellini separately. Prepare the stew base (through the beef simmering step) and store it for up to 2 days. Reheat gently, then cook fresh tortellini directly in the hot stew before serving.
Can I use a different protein? Absolutely. Diced chicken thighs or Italian sausage are excellent substitutes. Adjust simmering time accordingly (chicken may require less time).
My sauce seems too thin. How can I thicken it? Create a slurry by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Stir this into the simmering stew after the beef is tender and before adding the tortellini.
Can I use milk instead of heavy cream? Not recommended, as milk is prone to curdling. For a lighter option, use half-and-half, but avoid boiling it.
How should I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Note that the tortellini will continue to absorb liquid, so you may need to add a splash of broth when reheating.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Crowding the pot while searing beef: This steams the meat instead of creating a flavorful brown crust.
- Adding tortellini too early: Adding them for the entire simmer will make them mushy and bloated.
- Boiling the stew rapidly after adding cream: A gentle simmer prevents the dairy from separating or curdling.
- Using pre-cooked or frozen tortellini without adjusting time: Follow package directions, as they often require less cooking time than fresh.
Conclusion
This Creamy Beef Tortellini Stew is the epitome of comfort food, masterfully combining rich, savory flavors with a satisfying, hearty texture. By following the detailed steps and tips provided, you can easily avoid common pitfalls and create a restaurant-quality meal in your own kitchen. It’s a versatile, crowd-pleasing recipe perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining, guaranteed to leave everyone at the table thoroughly satisfied. Enjoy the delicious results of your culinary effort.