Garlic Butter Beef & Spinach Tortellini

Ingredients

For the Dish:

• 1 pound ground beef

• 1 package (20 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 3-4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 large onion, chopped (optional)

• 2 cups fresh spinach

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 1 cup beef broth

• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

For Seasoning:

• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

• Salt to taste

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Cook tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add tortellini and cook according to package directions (usually 3-5 minutes until they float). Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining. Drain and set aside.

2. Brown the beef: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain excess fat if needed.

3. Add aromatics: Add chopped onion (if using) and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

4. Create sauce: Pour in beef broth and bring to a simmer. Let cook for 2-3 minutes to blend flavors. Add butter and stir until melted.

5. Combine ingredients: Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce. If needed, add reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.

6. Add spinach and cheese: Stir in fresh spinach and cook just until wilted, about 1 minute. Remove from heat and add Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted.

7. Finish and serve: Top with mozzarella cheese and fresh parsley. Serve immediately while hot.

Serves: 4-6 people
Total time: 25-30 minutes