This garlic butter tortellini in creamy sauce with beef, Italian sausage, and spinach is everything you crave on a weeknight. It’s the kind of dish that fills your kitchen with the irresistible scent of garlic and herbs, all bubbling together in a rich cream sauce that clings to every bite of cheesy tortellini.

Imagine a forkful of juicy ground beef and sweet Italian sausage, cooked down with garlic and onions, folded into a dreamy sauce of cream, butter, and parmesan. Spinach adds a bit of freshness and color, perfectly balancing the richness. Whether you’re feeding a family or just looking to meal prep something delicious for the week, this one-pot dish is going to be a favorite.

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

This tortellini dinner comes together in under 40 minutes but tastes like it simmered all day. It’s comforting, hearty, and totally indulgent without being fussy. The garlic butter adds deep savory flavor while the Italian sausage brings its signature spice and sweetness. Toss in fresh baby spinach for a touch of green and your bowl is complete.

Everything is made in one pan, so cleanup is minimal. And because you’re using store-bought tortellini, there’s no need to fuss with dough or stuffing. Just quick, easy, and deeply satisfying.

What Kind of Tortellini Should I Use?

Refrigerated cheese tortellini is the star here. It cooks up fast and has just the right bite to hold onto that creamy sauce. You can use fresh or frozen tortellini, but I find the refrigerated versions are easiest and most flavorful for this dish.

If you’re feeling adventurous, try tortellini filled with ricotta and spinach or even a three-cheese blend. They’ll work just as beautifully in this garlicky, buttery sauce.

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

To make this comforting pasta, you only need a few ingredients that come together with incredible flavor. The ingredients are simple, but each one brings something important to the dish, from the richness of the sauce to the depth of the meats and the freshness of spinach.

Cheese tortellini
Ground beef
Italian sausage
Baby spinach
Garlic cloves
Yellow onion
Heavy cream
Butter
Parmesan cheese
Olive oil
Salt and black pepper
Italian seasoning

Garlic Butter Tortellini in Creamy Sauce with Beef, Italian Sausage & Spinach 2

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

Step 1: Sauté the Meats

In a large skillet over medium heat, drizzle olive oil and add the ground beef and Italian sausage. Cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking the meat apart as it cooks. Remove excess grease, but keep a bit for flavor.

Step 2: Add Aromatics

Add chopped yellow onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and translucent. This is where the dish starts building those deep savory flavors.

Step 3: Create the Sauce

Lower the heat and add butter, letting it melt into the meat mixture. Stir in heavy cream, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes until it begins to thicken.

Step 4: Cook the Tortellini

Meanwhile, cook the tortellini in a separate pot according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain and reserve a bit of the pasta water.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet along with a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce. Toss in the baby spinach and grated parmesan. Stir until the spinach wilts and everything is well coated.

Step 6: Serve

Serve hot with extra parmesan on top and a sprinkle of cracked black pepper. It’s rich, creamy, and so satisfying.

Serving and Storing Garlic Butter Tortellini in Creamy Sauce with Beef, Italian Sausage & Spinach

This dish makes enough to serve about 4 to 6 people generously. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or a small gathering when you want something a little indulgent and comforting. Serve it directly from the skillet for a rustic feel or plate it up with a sprinkle of extra parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil for a fancier presentation.

If you have leftovers, you’re in luck. This tortellini reheats beautifully. Store any remaining portions in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of cream or milk to bring back that creamy texture. You can also freeze it, but keep in mind the cream sauce may slightly change in consistency.

What to Serve With Garlic Butter Tortellini?

Garlic Bread

A classic choice. The crisp, buttery texture and garlicky flavor pair perfectly with the rich cream sauce.

Caesar Salad

Something crisp and cool helps balance out the warmth and richness of the tortellini dish.

Roasted Broccoli

A simple, earthy side like roasted broccoli is a great way to add fiber and greens to your meal.

Caprese Skewers

Fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and basil with a balsamic drizzle bring a light and tangy contrast.

Sauteed Mushrooms

Mushrooms bring extra umami and pair beautifully with the sausage and beef.

White Wine

Try serving with a crisp Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay to elevate the dining experience.

Balsamic Glazed Carrots

Sweet and tangy carrots can cut through the creaminess and add a colorful side.

Antipasto Platter

Cured meats, olives, marinated artichokes, and cheese give your dinner a festive Italian appetizer vibe.

Want More Pasta Ideas with a Twist?

If you’re hooked on this garlic butter tortellini in creamy sauce, you’re going to fall in love with these other hearty pasta recipes from the site:

• Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce for a meaty, melty twist.
• Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta if you’re in the mood for a silky, savory dinner.
• One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta for a smoky and super easy weeknight win.
• Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe when you’re craving total comfort in a bowl.
• Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta that’s quick, creamy, and loaded with flavor.

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 add extra garlic? Did you swap in kale or mushrooms? I love hearing your twists on this!

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting dinners on Mia Recipes on Pinterest and discover your next comforting classic.