Garlic Steak Tortellini with Crispy Pancetta

Name: Garlic Steak Tortellini with Crispy Pancetta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz tortellini (fresh or frozen); 1 lb flank steak, sliced thinly; 4 oz pancetta, diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Classic Comfort Cooking

I absolutely love this Garlic Steak Tortellini with Crispy Pancetta recipe! It's a delightful blend of savory flavors and creamy textures that always leave my family and friends coming back for more. The combination of tender steak and crispy pancetta elevates the dish, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Plus, the tortellini comes together quickly, which is a bonus for busy evenings. Trust me, this dish is a showstopper that looks as good as it tastes!

Created by

Sophia

Last updated on 2026-02-16T15:14:20.343Z

When I first made this dish, I struggled to gather the right balance of flavors. After a few attempts, I realized that using freshly minced garlic and quality pancetta really made a difference in the overall taste. The richness of the pancetta complements the steak beautifully, and together they provide that mouthwatering factor that's hard to resist. It's a dish I've now perfected and am proud to serve.

Another thing I learned is that cooking the tortellini just right ensures a perfect bite without it being too soft. I highly recommend serving it right after mixing with the sauce — the creamy texture wraps around each piece of tortellini, making each mouthful an indulgence. It's a real crowd-pleaser!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Savory garlic aroma that fills your kitchen
Crispy pancetta adds a delightful crunch
Hearty and satisfying, perfect for any occasion

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh tortellini in this Garlic Steak Tortellini with Crispy Pancetta recipe not only enhances the overall flavor but also impacts the dish's texture. Fresh tortellini tends to have a more delicate, pillowy feel compared to frozen varieties. If frozen is your only option, make sure to follow the package instructions for the best results, ensuring they remain al dente when cooked.

The flank steak is another critical component; it benefits from quick cooking over high heat. When searing, let the steak rest for a few minutes after cooking to lock in the juices. This will keep it tender and moisture-rich. If flank steak isn’t available, sirloin or skirt steak can work, but adjust cooking times as they may require slightly different searing periods.

Tips for a Creamy Sauce

To achieve that luscious, creamy sauce, be sure not to let the garlic burn in the skillet. Cook it just until fragrant; if it starts browning, it can impart a bitter flavor to your sauce. On that note, when adding the heavy cream, keep the heat on low to prevent it from boiling, which can cause the cream to separate.

If you find the sauce too thick, a splash of pasta cooking water can help loosen it while adding extra flavor. And if you're a cheese lover like I am, you can always increase the amount of Parmesan to create an even richer taste. Just remember to follow up with a taste test to avoid overpowering the garlic and pancetta flavors.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for an unforgettable meal:

Ingredients

8 oz tortellini (fresh or frozen)
1 lb flank steak, sliced thinly
4 oz pancetta, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Make sure everything is prepped before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delicious dish:

Cook the Pancetta

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the diced pancetta and cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Cook the Steak

In the same skillet, add the olive oil. Season the sliced flank steak with salt and pepper, then add to the skillet. Sear until browned and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet, lower the heat and add the minced garlic. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, then pour in the heavy cream. Add the Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and creamy.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked tortellini, crispy pancetta, and steak to the sauce. Toss gently to combine. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Enjoy your homemade dish!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider marinating the steak in garlic and herbs for an hour before cooking.

Serving Suggestions

This Garlic Steak Tortellini with Crispy Pancetta can be served with a simple side salad or some sautéed vegetables for added nutrition. A light arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish. You might also consider pairing it with a glass of red wine, which complements the savory flavors beautifully.

For a heartier meal, consider adding roasted cherry tomatoes or sautéed spinach into the mix. These ingredients add color and nutrition while balancing the richness of the pancetta and steak. Additionally, a sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top before serving can elevate the presentation.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This dish can be partially prepared in advance. You can cook the pancetta and steak, cool them, and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat these ingredients in a skillet before combining them with the cooked tortellini and sauce.

If you want to freeze portions, it’s best to skip freezing the sauce. Instead, prepare the tortellini and meat separately and freeze them. When you’re ready to eat, thaw the ingredients and mix them with a fresh batch of sauce. This will maintain the dish's texture and flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes! While tortellini is traditional, you can use other pasta shapes like fettuccine or penne.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

If you use gluten-free tortellini, it can be made gluten-free. Just ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

You can prep the ingredients ahead of time and cook everything just before serving for the best texture.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

A simple green salad or garlic bread complements this dish nicely.