If you’re craving something hearty, creamy, and full of Italian comfort, this garlic butter tortellini dish is going to be your new weeknight favorite. With plump cheese-stuffed tortellini, juicy beef and sausage, and a velvety garlic parmesan cream sauce, it’s the kind of meal that feels like a cozy hug in a bowl.

The flavors in this dish are incredibly layered. You’ve got the rich umami from the meat, the fresh earthiness of baby spinach, the irresistible bite of garlic, and all of it wrapped in a creamy, cheesy sauce that coats every bite. It’s fast enough to make on a busy night but fancy enough to serve when you want to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Tortellini in Creamy Sauce

This dish doesn’t skimp on flavor. It’s a full-on indulgence, but it also sneaks in greens and balances richness with herbs and spices. One skillet is all you need, making cleanup easy, and every ingredient adds to the decadence. Plus, it feeds a crowd or leaves you with excellent leftovers.

What Kind of Tortellini Should I Use?

Fresh refrigerated cheese tortellini is ideal for this recipe. It cooks quickly, holds up well in sauce, and has that tender chew that dried or frozen versions can lack. If you’re short on time or ingredients, frozen tortellini will work too—just adjust the cooking time accordingly. Whichever you choose, the pasta soaks up the garlic butter sauce beautifully.

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

This recipe builds flavor through every layer, so each ingredient plays an essential role. The pasta is the heart, the meat brings bold richness, the sauce ties it all together, and the spinach adds a fresh contrast.

Cheese tortellini
Ground beef
Italian sausage
Fresh baby spinach
Garlic cloves
Butter
Heavy cream
Grated parmesan cheese
Salt
Black pepper
Italian seasoning
Red pepper flakes (optional)

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

Step 1: Brown the Meat

Start by browning the ground beef and Italian sausage in a large skillet over medium heat. Break up the meat with a spoon and cook until fully browned and no longer pink. Drain excess grease if needed.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic in Butter

Push the meat to one side of the skillet and melt the butter on the other side. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.

Step 3: Add the Cream and Seasoning

Pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle in the salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir everything together and let it simmer gently for a few minutes.

Step 4: Stir in the Tortellini

Add the cheese tortellini to the skillet. Cook according to package instructions, usually around 3-5 minutes, until the pasta is tender and heated through.

Step 5: Add Spinach and Parmesan

Fold in the baby spinach and grated parmesan cheese. Stir until the spinach wilts and the cheese melts into the sauce.

Step 6: Simmer and Serve

Let everything simmer for another 1-2 minutes to thicken the sauce slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, then serve hot.

How to Serve and Store Garlic Butter Tortellini in Creamy Sauce

This indulgent pasta dish serves about 6 people generously, making it perfect for a cozy family dinner or casual get-together. Serve it straight from the skillet while it’s piping hot, and if you want to elevate the presentation, sprinkle a little extra parmesan and fresh parsley on top.

Leftovers store beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce. The tortellini holds up well and soaks in even more flavor overnight.

What to Serve With Garlic Butter Tortellini in Creamy Sauce?

Garlic Bread

A golden, crispy slice of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the luscious sauce.

Classic Caprese Salad

Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil lighten up the richness of the pasta.

Roasted Asparagus

The slightly crisp, earthy bite of roasted asparagus complements the creamy sauce well.

Caesar Salad

Crunchy romaine, parmesan, and croutons balance the meal with a salty tang.

Herby Chicken Meatball Bowl

For those looking to double up on protein or serve this as a side, these meatballs add more Italian flair.

Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach

This light and cheesy meatball dish pairs beautifully with the creamy tortellini.

Lemon Garlic Green Beans

Bright and zesty green beans bring a refreshing pop to the plate.

Cheesy Ranch Potatoes

Yes, more comfort! These are an indulgent pairing if you’re all in on creamy, cheesy vibes.

Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If this garlic butter tortellini has you hooked on creamy comfort meals, you’ll love exploring more pasta-forward recipes from Janet Dishes:

• One-Pot Creamy Sausage Rigatoni for a cozy one-pan wonder.
• Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta brings brightness with a hint of garlic.
• Tuscan Chicken Pasta is full of bold herbs and sun-dried tomatoes.
• Creamy Smothered Chicken with Spinach, Potatoes, and Mushrooms if you’re craving something hearty.
• Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup gives you the same cozy comfort in soup form.

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 use a different kind of tortellini? Try a veggie twist? I love hearing how others bring their own spin.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting dinners and feel-good comfort meals on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and get inspired for your next cozy night in.

Conclusion

This Garlic Butter Tortellini in Creamy Sauce with Beef, Italian Sausage & Spinach is the kind of dish that turns a regular dinner into something memorable. It’s simple, rich, and brings the kind of flavor that makes you close your eyes for just a second while you eat. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just yourself with lots of leftovers, this meal delivers warmth, comfort, and pure satisfaction in every bite.