Ingredients
Scale
Choosing quality ingredients really makes a difference here, especially since the flavors are so simple and pure. I always reach for fresh garlic and organic baby spinach when I can, and I prefer beef that’s lean but still has some fat for flavor. The tortellini is the star, so pick a brand with good filling and firm pasta to hold up well in the sauce. If you want to switch things up, you can swap beef for ground turkey or chicken, and even use kale or swiss chard instead of spinach for a heartier green.
- 1 pound ground beef (preferably 80/20 for flavor)
- 1 package (9 ounces) refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 3 cups fresh baby spinach
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup beef broth or low-sodium stock
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Season with salt and pepper. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the beef and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Pour in the beef broth and bring to a simmer. Add the tortellini directly to the skillet, stirring to combine. Cover and cook according to package instructions (usually around 5-7 minutes) until tortellini is tender.
- Once tortellini is cooked, stir in the butter and fresh spinach. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until spinach wilts and butter melts, coating everything in a glossy sauce.
- Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top and stir gently to combine. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor. If you want to add a fresh touch, a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving brightens the dish beautifully.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
Keywords: Garlic Butter Beef and Spinach Tortellini, recipe, cooking, food
