Tortellini Alfredo with Beef, Sausage, and Spinach

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Few dishes offer the kind of soul-warming, belly-filling satisfaction that a bowl of tortellini in creamy garlic butter sauce does. When you layer in juicy ground beef, savory Italian sausage, and vibrant spinach, you’ve got a dish that screams comfort and flavor in every bite. This hearty, creamy pasta is the type of weeknight winner that turns a casual dinner into something a little more special.

Imagine rich cheese-stuffed tortellini, drenched in a buttery garlic sauce that clings to every fold and swirl. Then add spoonfuls of seasoned beef and sausage, plus a handful of tender spinach leaves that melt right into the creamy base. It’s indulgent without being too heavy, and the combination of flavors and textures keeps every bite exciting.

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Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Tortellini

This recipe checks every box. It’s cozy, easy to prepare, and perfect for families or meal-prep lovers alike. The tortellini cooks quickly, and the garlic butter sauce comes together in one pan – which means fewer dishes, more flavor. Adding both ground beef and Italian sausage gives the dish depth and richness, while the spinach introduces just the right amount of freshness to balance things out.

Whether you’re making this for a weeknight dinner, a potluck, or your Sunday meal rotation, it will become one of those repeat-worthy recipes everyone asks for.

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What Kind of Tortellini Should I Use?

You can use either fresh or refrigerated cheese tortellini for this recipe, depending on what you can find. Fresh tortellini offers a delicate bite and cooks up faster, while refrigerated or even frozen tortellini is great for stocking up and having on hand. Stick to cheese-stuffed tortellini to let the creamy garlic butter sauce shine without competing with too many other flavors.

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Ingredients for the Garlic Butter Tortellini in Creamy Sauce with Beef, Italian Sausage & Spinach

Let’s talk about what makes this dish absolutely irresistible. Each ingredient in this recipe brings something to the table—literally. Here’s why you need each of them:

• Cheese Tortellini: The main pasta component, filled with creamy cheese that balances the rich meat and sauce.
• Ground Beef: Adds a meaty base flavor, soaking up the spices and garlic beautifully.
• Italian Sausage: Brings savory, spiced depth and that distinct Italian flair.
• Fresh Garlic: Essential for building the butter sauce with aromatic richness.
• Butter: Forms the base of the creamy sauce, adding velvety texture and flavor.
• Heavy Cream: Thickens the sauce and makes it lusciously creamy.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, umami punch that enhances the sauce.
• Spinach: Offers a burst of green freshness and slight bitterness that complements the cream.
• Italian Seasoning: Infuses the dish with familiar herbaceous notes.
• Salt & Pepper: To season each component to perfection.

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How To Make the Garlic Butter Tortellini in Creamy Sauce with Beef, Italian Sausage & Spinach

Step 1: Sear the Meats

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and Italian sausage together. Break them apart and stir frequently until fully browned and cooked through. Drain any excess grease and set the meat aside.

Step 2: Cook the Tortellini

While the meat is browning, cook your cheese tortellini according to package directions. Drain and set aside once they’re al dente.

Step 3: Build the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for about 1-2 minutes, just until fragrant (don’t let it brown!). Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Spinach

Lower the heat and stir in grated Parmesan cheese. Let it melt completely into the sauce, then fold in the fresh spinach. Stir until the spinach wilts into the sauce.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the cooked meat to the skillet, followed by the tortellini. Gently toss everything to coat evenly in the sauce. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes so all the flavors meld.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Sprinkle in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan if desired.

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How to Serve and Store Garlic Butter Tortellini in Creamy Sauce with Beef, Italian Sausage & Spinach

This dish is best served hot and creamy right after it’s made, when the tortellini are plump and the sauce is at its silkiest. It feeds 4 to 6 people, making it ideal for both family dinners and small gatherings.

To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely and place it in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or milk to bring back the creamy consistency as the sauce tends to thicken when cold. You can reheat it on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between.

Freezing is not recommended, as tortellini and cream-based sauces can become grainy after thawing.

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What to Serve With Garlic Butter Tortellini?

Garlic Bread

Crunchy, buttery garlic bread is perfect for scooping up extra sauce. It’s the ultimate carb-on-carb comfort.

Roasted Vegetables

Think roasted zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or Brussels sprouts for a colorful, healthy contrast.

Caesar Salad

Crisp romaine, parmesan, and a tangy Caesar dressing pair beautifully with the richness of the tortellini dish.

Caprese Skewers

Tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing and light starter.

Balsamic Glazed Carrots

Add some sweetness and acidity to balance the savory elements of the pasta.

Italian Antipasto Platter

A small plate of olives, marinated artichokes, and salami can kick off the meal with flair.

Lemon-Butter Asparagus

A bright and tangy side that helps lighten the overall meal.

Crusty Artisan Bread

Not garlic bread, but something rustic and hearty to soak up every bit of sauce.

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Want More Pasta Ideas?

If this creamy Garlic Butter Tortellini hits all the right notes for you, you’ll love diving into these other comforting and flavor-packed pasta recipes from NoraNosh:

• Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce for an ultra-savory twist.
• One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta that’s smoky, spicy, and fast.
• Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta when you’re craving meat and cream in perfect harmony.
• Delicious Beef Bowtie Pasta that’s simple and hearty.
• Garlic Butter Meatballs with Velvety Parmesan Penne if you love bold garlic flavor in every bite.

Whether you’re cooking for a hungry family or prepping your weekly meals, these dishes promise bold flavors and satisfying portions.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how it turned out for you. Did you go extra garlicky? Swap the beef for chicken? Maybe added sun-dried tomatoes or mushrooms?

I love seeing your twists and kitchen wins. Questions welcome too – let’s make dinnertime even more delicious, together.

Explore beautifully curated pasta dinners and weeknight winners on NoraNosh Recipes on Pinterest and discover new ways to love your favorite meals.

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