There’s something undeniably comforting about pasta swimming in a creamy, garlicky sauce—especially when it’s stuffed with beef tortellini and balanced with savory Italian sausage and vibrant spinach. This dish is like a warm hug in a bowl, the kind of dinner you look forward to after a long day. It comes together quickly but tastes like it simmered all afternoon.

The richness of garlic butter wrapped around every bite, the heartiness of sausage, and the subtle earthiness of spinach combine to make this a weeknight dinner that feels indulgent and yet still practical. Whether you’re feeding a family or treating yourself to a solo comfort meal, this tortellini dish promises to satisfy cravings and leave nothing behind but clean plates.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Tortellini

If you’re a fan of flavor-packed dinners that are ready in under 30 minutes, this one’s for you. It brings together pantry and fridge staples to create a gourmet-like experience without the hassle. The creamy sauce clings to every fold of tortellini, ensuring each bite bursts with flavor. Add in the bonus of spinach sneaking in a bit of green and nutrition, and you’ve got a meal that’s balanced in every sense.

The aroma alone, as the garlic hits the butter in a hot skillet, will have everyone asking what’s for dinner. And the cleanup? One skillet. One pot. Done.

What Kind of Tortellini Should I Use?

Fresh or refrigerated tortellini is your best bet for this recipe. It cooks quickly and holds up beautifully in the creamy sauce. If you can find beef-stuffed tortellini, that adds even more depth to the dish, but cheese-filled tortellini will also work if that’s what you have on hand. Just avoid dried tortellini unless you’re ready for a much longer cook time and a less tender texture.

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

This recipe is built around simple ingredients that come together for maximum comfort and flavor. Each component plays a role in bringing richness, texture, and depth to the dish.

Beef Tortellini
Italian Sausage
Baby Spinach
Garlic
Unsalted Butter
Heavy Cream
Parmesan Cheese
Salt and Pepper
Olive Oil
Red Pepper Flakes (optional)

Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Tortellini with Italian Sausage & Spinach 2

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

Step 1: Sear the Sausage

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil and brown the Italian sausage, breaking it apart as it cooks. Once fully browned and crispy around the edges, remove it from the pan and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

In the same skillet, lower the heat slightly and add butter. Once melted, toss in the minced garlic. Stir constantly for about a minute until fragrant but not browned.

Step 3: Make the Cream Sauce

Pour the heavy cream into the skillet with the garlic butter, stirring to combine. Simmer for a few minutes to thicken slightly, then stir in the grated Parmesan until melted and smooth. Add salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste.

Step 4: Cook the Tortellini

While the sauce simmers, boil the tortellini according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and gently fold into the cream sauce.

Step 5: Add Sausage and Spinach

Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and add the fresh spinach. Stir gently until the spinach wilts and everything is well combined.

Step 6: Serve

Spoon the creamy tortellini into bowls and top with extra Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately while hot and silky.

Serving and Storing This Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Tortellini

This dish is best served fresh off the stove when the sauce is at its silkiest and most luscious. It easily feeds four people, making it a perfect family meal or a great option for a cozy dinner with friends. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, a splash of cream or milk can help revive the sauce and keep it from getting too thick or sticky.

Avoid freezing this dish, as the cream sauce can separate and the tortellini may lose its texture.

What to Serve With Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Tortellini?

Garlic Bread

A crunchy slice of garlic bread is a natural pairing to soak up every bit of that creamy sauce.

Simple Green Salad

A fresh salad with crisp greens, cherry tomatoes, and a balsamic vinaigrette adds contrast and balance.

Roasted Asparagus

The earthy sweetness of roasted asparagus complements the richness of the tortellini beautifully.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

Serve a small bowl on the side for a soup-and-pasta combo that feels restaurant-worthy.

Herby Chicken Meatball Bowl

Serve this on the side or next day for protein-rich leftovers that still pair with the garlic-forward flavors.

Classic Caprese Salad

Tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil bring a cool and refreshing contrast.

Oven-Roasted Zucchini and Squash

This veggie medley is quick to make and won’t compete with the flavors of the pasta.

Lemonade or White Wine

For drinks, try something bright and refreshing to balance the richness—lemonade or a chilled white wine works great.

Want More Pasta Dishes Bursting with Creamy Comfort?

If this Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Tortellini with Italian Sausage & Spinach hit the spot, here are more ideas from Janet Dishes that you’ll want to try next:

Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta for a tangy, velvety vegetarian alternative.
One-Pot Creamy Sausage Rigatoni when you’re in the mood for rustic simplicity and big flavor.
Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta if you crave a bit of heat with your comfort.
Creamy Lemon Butter Salmon for a seafood spin on creamy dinners.
Creamy Mushroom Ravioli when you’re after a vegetarian dish with savory depth.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 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 yours turned out. Did you go with beef or cheese tortellini? Add a pinch more garlic? Maybe tossed in sun-dried tomatoes or mushrooms?

I love hearing how you make these dishes your own. Questions are always welcome—let’s help each other make dinner even better.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and weeknight comfort meals on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and discover new ways to elevate your kitchen game!

Conclusion

Comfort food doesn’t need to be complicated, and this Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Tortellini with Italian Sausage & Spinach proves exactly that. It’s quick, rich, hearty, and oh-so-satisfying. Perfect for a cozy night in or an easy dinner that looks like you spent hours on it. Once you try it, it’ll be on your regular rotation.