Thank you so much for being here—truly, it’s a joy to share comforting, flavor-packed meals with home cooks like you! If you’re craving something hearty, cheesy, and irresistibly creamy, but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen, this Creamy Tortellini Skillet with Beef and Parmesan is the weeknight dinner of dreams.
It’s rich, satisfying, and on the table in about 30 minutes. That’s what I call dinner magic!
If you’d love more quick, cozy recipes straight to your inbox, be sure to subscribe—and never miss a delicious idea!
What Is Creamy Tortellini Skillet with Beef and Parmesan?
This one-pan wonder is a savory pasta skillet that brings together juicy ground beef, pillowy cheese tortellini, and a luscious Parmesan cream sauce. Everything simmers together in one pan, making it ultra flavorful and easy to clean up (yes, please!). The cheese tortellini soak up all the flavor of the sauce and beef, while fresh Parmesan adds depth and that iconic savory finish.
It’s comfort food through and through—and yet, surprisingly easy to pull off, even on your busiest nights.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One pan, one dream – Less mess, more flavor!
- Ultra creamy sauce – Made with real cream and fresh Parmesan.
- Protein-packed – Thanks to hearty ground beef.
- Fast and easy – 30 minutes, start to finish.
- Family-friendly – Even picky eaters ask for seconds!
What Does This Skillet Taste Like?
Think creamy Alfredo meets meaty Bolognese, with soft bites of cheese-filled pasta and a velvety sauce that hugs every ingredient. The Parmesan adds a salty, nutty richness, while the beef brings that satisfying savory depth. It’s comforting, cheesy, and completely irresistible—anything but boring!!
Hidden Benefits of This Comfort Classic
- Balanced meal in one pan – You’ve got protein, carbs, and dairy all working together.
- Adaptable – Use lean beef or swap in turkey for a lighter version.
- Easy to sneak in veggies – A handful of spinach or mushrooms disappears right into the sauce.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to make this creamy, dreamy skillet:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning (optional)
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- ½ cup (120ml) beef or vegetable broth
- ½ cup (50g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 package (about 18 oz / 500g) refrigerated cheese tortellini
- Optional: handful of baby spinach, red pepper flakes, or chopped parsley
Tools You’ll Need
- Large nonstick skillet or sauté pan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Cheese grater (for fresh Parmesan – always worth it!)
- Measuring cups/spoons
Ingredient Additions & Substitutions
- Ground turkey or chicken – Lightens it up, still delicious.
- Veggie-packed version – Add mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers.
- Spicy twist – Toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a swirl of chili oil.
- Extra cheese – Mozzarella or fontina make the sauce stretchier and even more indulgent.
- Herb boost – Fresh basil or thyme take this to the next level.
How to Make Creamy Tortellini Skillet with Beef and Parmesan
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook another 30 seconds.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5–7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if needed.
Step 3: Pour in Cream & Broth
Reduce the heat to medium-low. Stir in the cream and broth, mixing well to combine with the beef. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to thicken slightly.
Step 4: Add the Tortellini
Gently fold in the uncooked cheese tortellini. Cover and simmer for about 5–6 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and fully heated through. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Stir in Parmesan
Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan. If using, add spinach now and let it wilt in the residual heat. Taste and adjust seasoning.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
Top with extra Parmesan, a sprinkle of parsley, or a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired. Serve hot and dig in!
What to Serve With This Skillet
Honestly, this dish is a full meal on its own—but if you want to round it out, try:
- Garlic bread or focaccia – To soak up the sauce (don’t let a drop go to waste!)
- Simple green salad – A fresh, crisp counterpoint to the creamy richness
- Steamed broccoli or roasted veggies – To add a healthy balance
Tips for a Perfect Tortellini Skillet
- Don’t overcook the tortellini – It should be just tender, not mushy.
- Use fresh Parmesan – Pre-shredded just won’t melt as well.
- Make it ahead – Cook everything except the tortellini, then simmer with pasta just before serving.
- Add broth gradually – You can control how thick or thin you want the sauce to be.
Storage & Reheating
To store: Let cool completely and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
To reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce.
To freeze: Not recommended—cream sauces can separate and tortellini texture may suffer after thawing.
General Info
This recipe takes inspiration from classic Italian-American comfort food but transforms it into a speedy one-pan meal. It’s hearty enough for cold nights and quick enough for weeknights—my favorite kind of recipe! Plus, it’s endlessly flexible depending on what you have in the fridge.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes! Just add a few extra minutes of cooking time and make sure they’re fully heated through before serving.
Can I use a different sauce?
Absolutely. Try a tomato-based sauce, a pesto-cream blend, or even a lighter white wine cream sauce.
Is it spicy?
Not unless you add heat. For a spicy kick, try crushed red pepper or hot Italian sausage instead of plain ground beef.
In Conclusion
This Creamy Tortellini Skillet with Beef and Parmesan is everything you want in a weeknight dinner: easy, cozy, and completely satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a busy family or just want something comforting after a long day, this dish delivers every time.
Looking for more one-pan dinner inspiration? You’ll love:
- Creamy Tuscan Chicken Skillet
- Sausage & Spinach Tortellini Bake
- One-Pot Creamy Mushroom Pasta
Show Off Your Skillet!
Tried this recipe? I love seeing your creations! Leave a review, pin it on Pinterest, or tag me so I can see your delicious dinner in action. You all inspire me every single day 💛
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approx. based on 4 servings)
- Calories: 620
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 34g
- Carbs: 48g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
Nutrition may vary depending on your ingredients and add-ins.