Some meals have a way of wrapping you in warmth and nostalgia, and beef stroganoff is definitely one of them. The rich, creamy sauce combined with tender beef and pasta is the ultimate comfort food. But what if we took that classic and made it even easier? That’s where One-Skillet Beef Stroganoff Tortellini comes in!
I remember the first time I made traditional stroganoff it was delicious, but between boiling the noodles, browning the beef, and thickening the sauce, my kitchen looked like a war zone. That’s when I thought, “Why not simplify it?” By using cheese tortellini instead of egg noodles and cooking everything in one pan, I created a dish that’s just as creamy and flavorful but way easier to clean up.
This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or even meal prep. It’s hearty enough to satisfy a crowd but simple enough for a stress-free meal. Plus, with its cheesy tortellini twist, even picky eaters will love it.
If you’re looking for a meal that’s quick, comforting, and bursting with flavor, you’ve just found your new go-to recipe. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this dish and how to make it effortlessly in one skillet.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This One-Skillet Beef Stroganoff Tortellini recipe is a dish that will quickly become a family favorite. It’s the perfect balance of creamy, savory, and satisfying, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you want a hearty meal without all the fuss. The beauty of this recipe lies in how easily it comes together no need for multiple pots or pans. You start with ground beef, cook it with onions and garlic, and then add a rich blend of beef broth, cream, and Worcestershire sauce to create a luscious sauce that coats the tender tortellini.
- Quick and easy one-skillet meal with minimal cleanup required
- Hearty and creamy sauce with the perfect balance of flavors
- Uses refrigerated tortellini for convenience and a fast cook time
- Customize to your liking with optional additions like vegetables or extra spices
- Perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, and meal prep
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 (9 oz) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
Preparation
Step 1: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook the beef, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Once done, drain any excess fat if needed and set the beef aside.
Step 2: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
Step 3: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be sure not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
Step 4: Pour in the beef broth, heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it simmer for about 3-5 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
Step 5: Add the refrigerated tortellini to the skillet, stirring to make sure the pasta is coated in the sauce. Cover the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the tortellini is cooked through and tender, following the instructions on the package. You may need to adjust the cooking time depending on the type of tortellini used.
Once the tortellini is cooked, stir in the sour cream and let the sauce simmer for another 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly. Garnish with chopped parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious one-skillet beef stroganoff tortellini!
Variations
This one-skillet beef stroganoff tortellini recipe is versatile and can be customized to fit different dietary preferences or ingredient availability. Here are a few ideas to help you make this dish your own:
-
Ground Turkey or Chicken: If you prefer a lighter protein option, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for the beef. These leaner options will still provide great flavor and pair perfectly with the creamy sauce.
-
Vegetarian Option: To make a vegetarian version, swap the ground beef for sautéed mushrooms or plant-based meat alternatives. Mushrooms provide a rich, earthy flavor that mimics the texture of meat, while plant-based ground meat will offer a similar consistency to beef.
-
Gluten-Free: For a gluten-free twist, simply replace the cheese tortellini with gluten-free pasta. Many grocery stores offer gluten-free tortellini or other types of pasta that work well in this dish.
-
Dairy-Free: If you’re following a dairy-free diet, you can make a few substitutions to the recipe. Use dairy-free cream cheese and sour cream, and opt for a non-dairy milk such as almond milk or coconut milk in place of the heavy cream. You can also skip the Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based version.
-
Spicy Variation: To add a little kick to the dish, toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or add some diced jalapeños along with the garlic. This gives the dish a flavorful heat that complements the creamy sauce.
Feel free to experiment with these variations to suit your preferences or dietary needs!
How to Serve
One-Skillet Beef Stroganoff Tortellini is a hearty and satisfying dish that stands well on its own, but it can be enhanced with a few simple side dishes and garnishes. Here are some great ways to serve this dish and make it even more enjoyable:
-
Fresh Salad: Pair the creamy beef stroganoff tortellini with a light, refreshing salad. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or a Caesar salad with crunchy croutons complements the richness of the dish. The freshness of the vegetables will balance the creamy texture of the pasta.
-
Garlic Bread or Crusty Baguette: Serve with warm garlic bread or slices of a crusty baguette. The bread is perfect for soaking up the flavorful sauce left in the skillet, making it even more satisfying. It adds a nice crunchy texture to the meal.
-
Steamed Vegetables: To add a nutritious touch, serve the dish with some steamed vegetables, like broccoli, green beans, or asparagus. The slight crunch of the vegetables offers a perfect contrast to the creamy pasta, making the meal more well-rounded.
-
Grated Parmesan Cheese: For an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the top just before serving. This will add a salty, nutty finish to the dish, enhancing the overall flavor.
-
Garnish with Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color to the dish but also provides a hint of freshness, balancing the richness of the sauce.
Recipe Tips
To make the most of your One-Skillet Beef Stroganoff Tortellini, here are some handy tips to enhance your cooking experience and achieve the best possible result:
-
Use Fresh Tortellini: Fresh refrigerated cheese tortellini will give you the best texture and flavor in this recipe. If you use frozen tortellini, make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as frozen pasta takes a bit longer to cook.
-
Don’t Overcook the Beef: When browning the ground beef, be sure to cook it just until it’s no longer pink. Overcooking the beef can result in a dry texture, which may affect the overall richness of the dish.
-
Low and Slow for the Sauce: For a creamy, velvety sauce, be patient when simmering. Allow the beef broth, heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard to reduce slightly before adding the tortellini. This creates a thicker sauce that coats the pasta beautifully.
-
Add Flavor with Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs, like thyme or parsley, can elevate the flavor of the dish. Adding fresh thyme to the sauce as it simmers, and garnishing with freshly chopped parsley, will bring a fresh burst of flavor that complements the richness of the cream.
-
Keep the Sauce Creamy: If the sauce thickens too much while cooking, simply add a little more beef broth or a splash of milk to reach your desired consistency.
-
Make It a Meal: For a more filling dish, add some sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the skillet along with the beef for added flavor and nutrition.
Cooking Notes
-
Beef Cooking Tip: When browning the ground beef, make sure to break it up into small pieces so it cooks evenly. Drain excess fat if needed, but leave a bit of it for flavor.
-
Pasta Cooking Tip: If you’re using frozen tortellini, add a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it’s fully cooked through. You can also add an extra splash of broth or water if needed.
-
Consistency: If the sauce feels too thick after adding the sour cream, feel free to add a splash of the reserved pasta water or extra beef broth to thin it out to your desired consistency.
-
Avoid Overcrowding the Skillet: If you don’t have a large enough skillet, you may want to cook the beef in batches to avoid overcrowding. This will help ensure that the beef browns nicely and doesn’t steam.
Nutritional Information
Here’s the nutritional breakdown for One-Skillet Beef Stroganoff Tortellini. Keep in mind that this can vary depending on the specific ingredients used, but this should give you a general idea of what you’re serving up:
- Calories: 550
- Protein: 28g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 5g
These values are based on serving the dish as written, with ground beef and regular cheese tortellini. Feel free to adjust the recipe for different dietary needs by substituting ingredients to lower fat, carbs, or sodium content.
Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4-6
This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner but is hearty enough to serve at a family gathering or potluck. It’s filling and comforting, with a creamy, rich sauce that everyone will love!
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen tortellini for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen tortellini, but keep in mind that frozen pasta takes a little longer to cook. Add a few extra minutes to the cooking time and make sure to check for doneness. Just like fresh tortellini, once the pasta is tender, it’s ready to be mixed into the sauce.
2. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! To make this dish gluten-free, simply substitute the regular tortellini with gluten-free tortellini. You can also use a gluten-free beef broth and check the labels of your other ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free. Just make sure to follow the cooking instructions carefully, as gluten-free pasta may cook a bit differently.
3. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
While the dish is best when served fresh, you can prepare it ahead of time by cooking the beef mixture and storing it separately. When ready to serve, simply reheat the mixture and add the tortellini and cream to finish cooking. This will save you time on busy nights, but for the best texture, it’s recommended to make it fresh.
4. How do I store leftovers?
Leftover Beef Stroganoff Tortellini can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the dish in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or milk if the sauce has thickened too much.
5. Can I substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt?
Yes, you can substitute the sour cream with plain Greek yogurt if you prefer a slightly tangy flavor or want a healthier alternative. Just be sure to use full-fat Greek yogurt for the best creamy consistency.
6. How can I make this dish spicier?
If you enjoy a bit of heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce or stir in some chopped jalapeños for an extra kick. Alternatively, you can use a spicy Dijon mustard instead of the regular one to add some subtle spice.
Conclusion
In conclusion, One-Skillet Beef Stroganoff Tortellini is a comforting and delicious dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or even meal prep for the week ahead. The rich and creamy sauce, combined with tender tortellini and seasoned ground beef, creates a well-rounded meal that everyone will love.
This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily adjust the ingredients based on dietary preferences, such as making it vegetarian or gluten-free. Plus, it’s quick to make, requiring only about 30 minutes from start to finish, so you won’t be spending hours in the kitchen.
What makes this recipe truly special is its ability to be both indulgent and adaptable. Whether you serve it with a side of garlic bread or a light salad, it’s sure to be a hit. The leftovers, if you have any, also make for a great next-day lunch.
So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and make this comforting, hearty meal tonight. And don’t forget to share your experience! Let us know in the comments how you made this dish your own, and feel free to add your own creative twists. If you love this recipe, be sure to check out other easy and flavorful dishes on the site that can help make your meal times even more exciting.
With One-Skillet Beef Stroganoff Tortellini, you’ve got a deliciously satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!
Print
One-Skillet Beef Stroganoff Tortellini Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Ingredients
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 (9 oz) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
Instructions
Step 1: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook the beef, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Once done, drain any excess fat if needed and set the beef aside.
Step 2: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
Step 3: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be sure not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
Step 4: Pour in the beef broth, heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it simmer for about 3-5 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
Once the tortellini is cooked, stir in the sour cream and let the sauce simmer for another 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly. Garnish with chopped parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious one-skillet beef stroganoff tortellini!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 550
- Sodium: 800
- Protein: 28