Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Tortellini with Italian Sausage and Spinach

Before diving into the cooking process, make sure you have these ingredients ready to go.

• 20 ounces refrigerated cheese tortellini
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 pound Italian sausage (casings removed)
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 10 ounces frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups whole milk
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Directions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Tortellini with Italian Sausage & Spinach:

• Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the tortellini according to package instructions (usually about 3–5 minutes). Drain and set aside.
• Step 2: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Add the ground beef and Italian sausage, breaking them apart as they cook. Sauté until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
• Step 3: Stir in the chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Mix in the spinach and heat for 2–3 more minutes.
• Step 4: In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens, approximately 5–7 minutes.
• Step 5: Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, Cajun seasoning, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir until everything is melted and creamy.
• Step 6: Combine the cooked tortellini with the meat-spinach mixture, gently tossing until everything is well coated in the sauce.
• Step 7: Serve warm, garnished with additional Parmesan or fresh herbs if desired.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen tortellini instead of refrigerated?

Yes, you can use frozen tortellini. Just cook them according to the package directions before adding to the sauce.

2. Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce may be less thick and creamy.

3. Can I add extra vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables such as bell peppers or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.

4. How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.

5. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the beef and Italian sausage and add more vegetables or a meat substitute for a vegetarian version.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Tortellini with Italian Sausage & Spinach is an easy and comforting meal that brings a rich combination of flavors to your dining table. With just a few steps, you can create a hearty dish that satisfies cravings and delights everyone who tastes it. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or hosting friends, this recipe is sure to be a showstopper. So roll up your sleeves and dive into this culinary adventure, where every bite is as delicious as it is creamy!