Olive Garden Braised Beef Tortelloni (or Tortellini) 

Braised Beef Tortellini is one of my favorite things to order at The Olive Garden (my daughter’s favorite restaurant).   The beef is tender, and the wine and mushroom sauce over asiago-filled tortelloni is rich and flavorful. Tortelloni is really just a larger version of tortellini, which is what I used in the recipe below.  They’re readily available at most grocery stores in the frozen foods section nearby the frozen ravioli.  You also may find some fresher pasta in the refrigerated section as well.  You can easily use frozen tortellini as well.

This dish is easy to make at home if you plan ahead long enough to give the beef a long braising to let the flavors really meld together.  Don’t skip the Marsala wine because it gives this recipe much of its flavor.

Olive Garden Braised Beef Tortelloni

Ingredients:

• 3 Tbsp. olive oil
• 1/4 C. flour
• 2 lb. beef short ribs or sirloin (I used sirloin)
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 white onion, finely diced
• 1 14-oz can petite diced tomatoes, undrained
• 8 oz. fresh mushrooms, sliced (the Olive Garden Braised Beef & Tortelloni uses Portobello mushrooms)
• 1 1/4 C. Marsala wine (found in your grocery store near the vinegar)
• 1 C. beef broth
• 1 Tbsp. balsamic vinegar
• 1 Tbsp. Italian seasoning (basil/oregano to taste)
• Cracked black pepper (to taste)
• 1 bag or container cheese tortellini, prepared (Olive Garden uses Asiago-filled tortelloni)

Instructions:

Dredge beef in flour and sear in olive oil in a large skillet with a cover.  Remove and drain beef.

In the olive oil, sauté the garlic, onion and mushrooms until tender. Add the meat back in, along with the tomatoes, wine, balsamic vinegar, broth, Italian seasoning, and cracked black pepper.

Cover and reduce heat to low. Braise for 2 1/2 – 3 hours until the sauce has thickened and the meat is tender.   Stir occasionally, adding more wine if necessary.  If you prefer an even creamier sauce, add 1/2 C. heavy cream towards the end of the cooking process and heat through.  Serve over cheese tortellini.

For a garnish, chiffonade some basil to make your dish look gorgeous!

Olive Garden’s braised beef tortellini has become a favorite among Olive Garden visitors, capturing the essence of traditional Italian cuisine.

More About Olive Garden Braised Beef Tortellini

What is Braised Beef?

Braised beef is a cooking technique that involves searing a cut of meat, such as beef, in a hot pan to develop a flavorful crust. The meat is then cooked slowly in a liquid, often a combination of broth, wine, or other aromatic ingredients. This slow and gentle cooking method allows the beef to become tender, moist, and infused with the flavors of the braising liquid.

A Brief History of Tortellini

Tortellini, a classic Italian pasta variety, has a rich history dating back centuries. Legend has it that tortellini was inspired by the navel of the goddess Venus, which captivated an innkeeper in the Italian region of Emilia-Romagna. To commemorate this enchanting encounter, he created a pasta shape that resembled the goddess’s belly button. Since then, tortellini has become a beloved staple in Italian cuisine, known for its unique ring-like shape and versatile fillings.

The Olive Garden Restaurant and Its Signature Dishes

Olive Garden has gained a reputation for offering a warm and inviting dining experience, with a menu that celebrates Italian-American fare. Since its inception in 1982, the restaurant has been dedicated to providing guests with a taste of Italy through their diverse range of dishes, including pasta, soups, salads, and delectable desserts. Among their extensive menu, the braised beef tortellini stands out as a beloved choice among diners.

The Inspiration Behind Olive Garden’s Braised Beef Tortellini

Olive Garden’s braised beef tortellini was crafted with the aim of delivering a satisfying and comforting meal to its customers. The inspiration for this dish stems from the rich culinary traditions of Italian cuisine, specifically the use of slow-cooked meats and pasta. By combining the tenderness of braised beef with the delicate pockets of tortellini, Olive Garden has created a harmonious blend of flavors that appeals to pasta lovers and meat enthusiasts alike.

The Ingredients Required to Make Braised Beef Tortellini

To recreate Olive Garden’s braised beef tortellini at home, you will need a handful of key ingredients. These include high-quality beef, preferably a cut suitable for braising, such as chuck roast or short ribs. Additionally, you will require tortellini pasta, which can be found in most supermarkets or made from scratch if you’re feeling adventurous. The sauce typically consists of a tomato base, complemented by aromatic vegetables, herbs, and spices.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Preparing Braised Beef Tortellini

Check out our copycat versions of the Pasta e Fagioli at Olive Garden and Olive Garden Salad Dressing too!  Like our recipes?  Follow us on Pinterest!