Rich, creamy, and packed with cheesy tortellini, this Skillet Beef Stroganoff Tortellini is an irresistible comfort meal. Perfect for busy weeknights, it combines the savory flavor of classic beef stroganoff with the hearty satisfaction of pasta, all cooked in one pan for easy cleanup. Whether you’re cooking for the family or meal-prepping for the week, this dish will quickly become a favorite.
Ingredients
For the Main Dish
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or butter)
- 1 lb ground beef (or sirloin strips for a chunkier texture)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra depth)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional, adds tanginess)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
For the Pasta
- 9 oz (about 2 1/2 cups) refrigerated or frozen cheese tortellini
For Thickening (Optional)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
For Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Optional: sour cream or grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
Cook the Beef
Heat the olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Sauté until fully browned and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes.
Once browned, remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside, leaving the flavorful drippings in the pan.
Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sliced mushrooms. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and develop a golden color.
Stir in the minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for about 1 minute more, just until the garlic becomes fragrant.
Build the Creamy Sauce
Pour the beef broth into the skillet, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any flavorful browned bits from the bottom.
Stir in the heavy cream, Dijon mustard (if using), and Worcestershire sauce. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer, creating a creamy, savory base for the tortellini.
Add the Tortellini and Beef
Add the refrigerated or frozen tortellini directly into the skillet. Return the cooked ground beef to the pan as well.
Simmer the mixture for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tortellini is tender and cooked through. The sauce will naturally thicken slightly as it simmers.
If you prefer a thicker, more luxurious sauce, stir in the prepared cornstarch slurry and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until the sauce reaches your desired thickness.
Finish and Serve
Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or a splash more Worcestershire sauce if needed.
Garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley for a bright, fresh touch.
Serve hot with an optional dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for extra richness.
Tips and Variations
Add Extra Veggies
Enhance the nutritional value and add color by stirring in spinach, peas, roasted red peppers, or even broccoli florets near the end of cooking. They cook quickly and add a pop of freshness to the creamy sauce.
Change Up the Protein
Not a fan of beef? No problem. You can easily swap in ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage for a different but equally delicious twist.
Make It Gluten-Free
For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free cheese tortellini (readily available in many stores) and make sure your Worcestershire sauce is certified gluten-free.
Mushroom-Free Option
If you’re not a fan of mushrooms, you can replace them with diced zucchini, bell peppers, or even omit them altogether. The sauce will still be rich and flavorful.
Lighten It Up
Cut down on calories by using half-and-half instead of heavy cream, and replace sour cream with Greek yogurt for serving. You can also reduce the amount of cheese tortellini slightly and add more veggies.
Prepare Ahead
This dish can be made in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth, cream, or milk to loosen the sauce if needed.
Boost the Flavor
For an extra burst of flavor, add a few dashes of hot sauce or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat in your stroganoff.
Why You’ll Love This Skillet Beef Stroganoff Tortellini
- One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup with maximum flavor.
- Hearty and Flavorful: Rich, creamy sauce perfectly coats the tender beef and cheesy tortellini.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes — ideal for busy weeknights.
- Customizable: Easy to swap proteins, add vegetables, or adjust seasonings to your liking.
- Family-Friendly: A guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike thanks to the cheesy pasta and savory sauce.
There’s something magical about skillet meals. Not only are they efficient, but the flavors have a chance to develop beautifully. This Skillet Beef Stroganoff Tortellini delivers serious comfort food vibes with little effort — and every bite is as satisfying as the last.
Pair it with a simple green salad or warm, crusty bread for a complete meal that will impress your family or guests.
FAQs
Can I use fresh tortellini instead of frozen?
Yes! Fresh, refrigerated tortellini cooks even faster. Just reduce the simmering time by a few minutes and keep an eye on the pasta to avoid overcooking.
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
No worries — you can substitute half-and-half, whole milk, or even a mixture of milk and cream cheese for a similar creamy texture.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
If the sauce is too thin, add the optional cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) and cook for 1–2 minutes until it thickens.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Absolutely! Skip the beef and add more mushrooms, or swap the meat for plant-based ground beef alternatives. Vegetable broth can be used instead of beef broth for a vegetarian sauce.
Can I freeze this dish?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze leftovers if needed. The sauce may separate slightly when thawed, so reheat gently with a little added cream or broth to restore the creamy consistency.
What can I serve with Beef Stroganoff Tortellini?
Serve it with a fresh salad, roasted veggies, steamed green beans, or simply some garlic bread. It’s a hearty meal on its own but pairs well with lighter sides.