1-First Step: Cook the tortellini Start by bringing a pot of water to a boil. Add the 9 ounces of cheese tortellini and cook according to the package instructions. Most fresh tortellini cooks quickly, so keep a close eye on it. When the pasta is tender, drain it well and set it aside while you move to the steak.

2-Second Step: Make the cowboy butter In a medium bowl, combine 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter with 4 minced garlic cloves, 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, 1 teaspoon chili flakes, and 1 tablespoon lemon juice. Mix until the ingredients form a smooth, fragrant butter mixture. This cowboy butter is the flavor base of the recipe, so stir it thoroughly. If you want a stronger garlic taste, let the mixture sit for a few minutes before cooking.

3-Third Step: Prep the steak for searing Pat 1 pound of sirloin steak dry with paper towels before cooking. This is one of the most useful steps because dry steak browns better in the pan. Season the pieces with salt and pepper to taste. The steak bites should be about the same size so they cook at the same rate. Dry steak browns more effectively, which helps create the crisp outer crust that makes steak bites so appealing.

4-Fourth Step: Sear the steak bites Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the steak bites in a single layer. Avoid crowding the pan, since too many pieces at once can cause steaming instead of searing. Cook the steak for 2 to 3 minutes per side until browned on the outside and cooked to your preferred doneness. For food safety and best texture, remove the steak from the skillet once it is browned and nearly done. Sirloin cooks fast, so do not walk away from the pan. A quick sear keeps the center juicy while building flavor on the surface.

5-Fifth Step: Combine pasta and cowboy butter Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet with the steak. Spoon in the cowboy butter and stir gently so every piece gets coated. The heat from the pan will melt the butter and form a glossy sauce. Keep stirring for about 1 to 2 minutes until everything is heated through and evenly covered.

6-Final Step: Serve while warm Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add more salt, pepper, or chili flakes if you want extra heat. Serve immediately while the pasta is tender and the steak is hot. This recipe works well in shallow bowls or wide plates, where the sauce can pool around the pasta and steak.