Garlic Steak Tortellini with Zucchini and Peppers

Name: Garlic Steak Tortellini with Zucchini and Peppers
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz tortellini (fresh or frozen); 1 pound sirloin steak, sliced thinly; 2 medium zucchinis, sliced; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Classic Comfort Cooking

I absolutely love how vibrant and flavorful this Garlic Steak Tortellini with Zucchini and Peppers dish is! Every bite bursts with fresh ingredients and perfectly cooked tortellini that truly elevates the steak experience. The blend of garlic and colorful veggies not only adds depth but also enhances the overall appeal. It’s a delightful way to enjoy a comforting pasta while staying balanced with nutritious vegetables. Trust me, once you try this dish, it will become a regular in your weeknight dinners!

Created by

Sophia

Last updated on 2026-02-16T15:18:19.163Z

When I first made this Garlic Steak Tortellini with Zucchini and Peppers, I was astonished by how quickly it came together. The tender tortellini pairs flawlessly with the steak, while the zucchini and peppers provide an aromatic element. One tip I found useful was to sear the steak before adding it to the pasta; this keeps it juicy and gives it an incredible flavor.

On another occasion, I tried swapping out the vegetables for whatever I had on hand, and it turned out just as delicious! The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different seasonal veggies to suit your taste!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich flavors of garlic and grilled steak
Quick and easy preparation for busy weeknights
Perfectly balanced with fresh vegetables and hearty tortellini

Choosing the Right Steak

Selecting the right cut of steak is essential for this dish. Sirloin is a great choice due to its balance of flavor and tenderness, but you can also use ribeye or flank steak for an even richer taste. If you choose a fattier cut like ribeye, consider adjusting the amount of olive oil used in the sautéing step, as the steak will render its own fat.

For the best results, slice the steak against the grain into thin strips. This technique ensures each bite is tender rather than chewy. Aim for strips around 1/4 inch thick; this allows for quick cooking while still maintaining a juicy interior. If you have time, marinating the steak for 30 minutes in a mix of olive oil, garlic, and herbs can add even more flavor.

Perfectly Cooked Tortellini

Cooking tortellini requires attention to ensure it comes out just right. Fresh tortellini generally cooks faster than frozen, so keep an eye on it, aiming for that al dente texture. The timing can vary, but testing a piece after 2 minutes in boiling water is a good idea. Overcooking can lead to mushy pasta that won't hold its shape when combined with the other ingredients.

To prevent sticking, stir the tortellini gently during cooking. Once drained, you can toss it with a drop of olive oil to help keep it separate until you're ready to combine it with the steak and veggies. This small step ensures your dish retains a delightful texture without clumps forming.

Customizing Your Vegetables

Zucchini and bell peppers add a lovely color and nutrient boost, but feel free to experiment with other vegetables. Asparagus, cherry tomatoes, or spinach can also work well in this recipe. Just be mindful of cooking times—keep veggies that take longer to cook, like carrots, cut thin or pre-cook them slightly to match the tenderness of zucchini and peppers.

When sautéing, aim for a bright color and a slight crispness in your veggies. If they start to brown too quickly, lower the heat to medium. Garlic should be added near the end of the cooking time; it only needs about a minute to release its flavor before the dish is combined, avoiding a burnt taste that can ruin the balance of flavors.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a delicious meal:

Ingredients

8 oz tortellini (fresh or frozen)
1 pound sirloin steak, sliced thinly
2 medium zucchinis, sliced
1 red bell pepper, sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional)

Now that you have your ingredients, let's move on to the cooking steps!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a delicious meal:

Cook the Tortellini

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook according to package instructions, usually about 3-5 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Sear the Steak

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the sliced steak with salt and pepper. Add steak to the skillet, searing until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil, then add the zucchini and bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until they are tender but still crisp. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked tortellini and seared steak back into the skillet. Toss gently to combine all the ingredients, cooking for another 2 minutes to heat everything through. Serve hot, garnished with Parmesan cheese if desired.

Enjoy your flavorful Garlic Steak Tortellini with Zucchini and Peppers!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, marinate the steak in garlic and herbs for 30 minutes before cooking. This dish also pairs beautifully with a side salad.

Make-Ahead Tips

This Garlic Steak Tortellini dish is great for meal prepping. You can cook the steak, vegetables, and tortellini ahead of time; just store each component separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days. When you're ready to eat, simply reheat them in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water or broth if they seem dry.

For those looking to save even more time, consider cooking a larger batch of tortellini and using it for other meals throughout the week. Toss it into salads or soups for a hearty addition, making versatile use of your cooking efforts.

Storing and Freezing

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Just make sure the dish is completely cooled before transferring it to a container. Reheating can be done in a non-stick skillet or microwave, but I recommend the skillet method to retain the dish's original texture.

For longer storage, you can freeze this dish. Keep components like the steak, vegetables, and tortellini separate in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Thaw them overnight in the fridge, and then reheat as described. While the texture may vary after freezing, the flavors will still be delicious!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different kind of pasta?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute tortellini with any pasta you prefer, such as penne or fettuccine.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Place leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for best results.

→ Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! It holds up well in meal prep containers and can be easily reheated for a quick lunch or dinner.

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Certainly! Simply omit the steak and add more vegetables or your choice of protein like tofu.