Creamy, rich, and packed with savory bites of seasoned beef and sausage, this Garlic Butter Tortellini in Creamy Sauce with Beef, Italian Sausage & Spinach is a weeknight comfort classic you’ll crave again and again. It’s got that luscious, garlicky butter sauce that clings to every tender fold of cheese-filled tortellini and a punch of freshness from wilted spinach.

The magic is in the balance of the richness from cream and cheese, and the contrast of lightly browned sausage and beef. It’s hearty enough for cold nights yet fast enough for busy evenings when you want something special but effortless.

What Kind of Tortellini Should I Use?

Fresh refrigerated tortellini works best for this dish because it cooks quickly and absorbs the flavors of the sauce beautifully. Cheese-filled tortellini is a classic choice, but you can also try spinach or even mushroom-stuffed versions depending on your preference. Avoid dried tortellini for this particular recipe as it doesn’t deliver the same soft bite and soak-in-the-sauce magic.

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

Ground Beef – Adds hearty richness and depth to the dish.
Italian Sausage – Brings spiced, savory flavor that complements the cream sauce.
Cheese Tortellini – Acts as the pasta base and soaks up the creamy, garlicky sauce.
Fresh Garlic – Infuses the butter with bold, aromatic flavor.
Unsalted Butter – The base of the garlic sauce that adds richness.
Heavy Cream – Creates the luscious, silky sauce that ties everything together.
Parmesan Cheese – Melts into the sauce and gives it that salty, nutty umami.
Spinach – Adds color and freshness while cutting through the creaminess.
Red Pepper Flakes – Optional, for a little heat.
Salt & Pepper – Essential seasonings to balance and enhance all the flavors.

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

Step 1: Brown the Meats

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef and Italian sausage until browned and cooked through, breaking them up as they cook. Once done, remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving a bit of grease in the pan for flavor.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

Reduce heat to medium, add the butter to the same skillet, and stir in the minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant—about 1 minute—being careful not to burn it.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes to taste.

Step 4: Add the Tortellini

Gently stir in the cooked tortellini (cook separately according to package directions if needed). Let it simmer in the sauce for 3–4 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Step 5: Fold in the Spinach and Meats

Add the spinach and cooked meats back into the skillet. Stir everything together until the spinach wilts and the mixture is hot and well coated in sauce.

Step 6: Serve It Up

Remove from heat and top with more parmesan if desired. Serve warm and enjoy the garlicky, cheesy goodness.

Serving and Storing Garlic Butter Tortellini

Serve this tortellini piping hot straight from the skillet, ideally with a side of crusty bread to soak up every last drop of that creamy garlic sauce. A sprinkle of extra parmesan or even a drizzle of chili oil takes it up a notch.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of cream or broth to restore its silky texture. Avoid microwaving for long stretches, as it can dry out the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add more red pepper flakes to the sauce or use hot Italian sausage for extra heat.

Can I use frozen tortellini?

Yes, just make sure to cook it according to package instructions before adding it to the sauce.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

Half and half or whole milk with a bit of cream cheese can substitute in a pinch, though the sauce may be slightly thinner.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prep the meats and sauce ahead, but it’s best to cook the tortellini fresh to avoid sogginess.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

The creamy sauce doesn’t freeze well, but you can freeze the cooked beef and sausage mixture to speed things up later.

What kind of spinach works best?

Fresh baby spinach is ideal—it wilts quickly and evenly without making the dish watery.

Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If you’re a fan of cozy, saucy pasta meals like this one, here are a few more to bookmark:

Try this ultra-comforting Cheesy Baked Tortellini with Meat Sauce
Need a stovetop option? Check out the bold flavors in Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli
For something creamy and one-pan, the One Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta is a weeknight winner
Or dig into the richness of Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Rigatoni with Savory Beef
Feeling adventurous? The Red Pepper Rigatoni brings a creamy kick!

📌 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 spicy sausage or go with mild? Did you add mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes?

I love hearing how you make these dishes your own. You can also follow along for more cozy pasta ideas on my Pinterest page here: Life with Jam on Pinterest.

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

Author: Jam Scott
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

A hearty, comforting skillet pasta dish loaded with garlicky butter sauce, tender cheese tortellini, seared Italian sausage, ground beef, fresh spinach, and a creamy parmesan finish. Perfect for busy nights when you want big flavor in under 30 minutes.