Cheesesteak Tortellini In Rich Provolone Sauce Recipe

Creamy Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce Recipe

Weeknight dinners demand bold, comforting flavors that satisfy deep hunger pangs.

A delectable cheesesteak tortellini combines classic Philly sandwich elements with creamy pasta perfection.

Tender tortellini swim in a decadent provolone sauce that hints at nostalgic sandwich memories.

Thinly sliced beef, caramelized onions, and melted cheese create a mouthwatering fusion of Italian and American cuisine.

Each bite promises a symphony of textures and rich, savory notes.

Succulent steak and cheese lovers will find this recipe irresistibly delicious.

Cheesesteak Tortellini Reasons to Try

  • Whip Up a Crowd-Pleaser: This cheesesteak tortellini combines classic sandwich flavors with comforting pasta, creating a dish that instantly wins over family and friends.
  • Simplify Weeknight Cooking: With just one skillet and straightforward steps, this recipe transforms complex flavors into an easy meal that looks and tastes impressive.
  • Customize Your Comfort: Easily adjust heat levels with red pepper flakes or swap protein types, making this dish adaptable to different taste preferences and dietary needs.
  • Pack Maximum Flavor in Minimal Time: Rich provolone sauce, tender steak, and pre-made tortellini come together quickly, delivering a gourmet-style meal without hours of preparation.

Ingredients for Rich Provolone Cheesesteak Tortellini

Main Protein:
  • Steak Slices: Tender beef strips that add a classic cheesesteak flavor and protein to the dish.
  • Tortellini: Cheese-filled pasta that serves as the hearty base of the recipe.
Dairy Components:
  • Provolone Cheese: Creamy cheese that creates a rich, smooth sauce with a mild tangy flavor.
  • Heavy Cream: Provides luxurious thickness and richness to the sauce.
Flavor Enhancers:
  • Beef Broth, Worcestershire Sauce: Ingredients that add depth and savory complexity to the overall taste.
  • Onions, Peppers, Garlic: Aromatic vegetables that bring traditional cheesesteak flavor and texture.
Seasoning and Oil:
  • Salt, Black Pepper, Red Pepper Flakes: Spices that balance and enhance the dish's overall flavor profile.
  • Olive Oil: Helps to sauté ingredients and prevent sticking in the skillet.

Step-by-Step Cheesesteak Tortellini Guide

Step 1: Boil Tortellini

Place tortellini in a pot of boiling water and cook following package directions.

Once tender, drain completely and set pasta aside, keeping warm.

Step 2: Sear Beef Slices

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high temperature.

Add beef slices and cook quickly until edges turn golden brown and meat develops a rich caramel color.

Transfer cooked beef to a separate plate.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetable Blend

In the same skillet, add:
  • Sliced onions
  • Chopped bell peppers
  • Minced garlic

Cook vegetables until they become soft and fragrant, releasing their natural sweetness.

Step 4: Create Creamy Sauce Base

Pour into skillet:
  • Beef broth
  • Heavy cream
  • Worcestershire sauce

Stir ingredients together and allow mixture to simmer gently, creating a luxurious sauce foundation.

Step 5: Melt Provolone Cheese

Reduce heat to low and gradually add shredded provolone cheese.

Stir continuously until cheese melts completely, forming a smooth and velvety sauce.

Step 6: Combine All Ingredients

Return seared beef slices and cooked tortellini to the skillet.

Gently toss everything together, ensuring each piece gets coated with the rich, creamy sauce.

Step 7: Season and Finish

Sprinkle in salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes for extra kick.

Mix well to distribute seasonings evenly.

Step 8: Serve Immediately

Transfer cheesy tortellini to serving plates and enjoy while hot and bubbling.

Cheesesteak Tortellini Cooking Tips

  • Cook meat quickly over high heat to develop a rich, caramelized exterior without overcooking, ensuring tender and flavorful meat.
  • Stir provolone slowly and steadily to prevent clumping, creating a smooth and creamy sauce that coats tortellini evenly.
  • Adjust red pepper flakes based on personal heat preference, adding gradually to achieve desired warmth without overwhelming other flavors.
  • Sauté onions and peppers until just softened to maintain slight crispness and prevent mushiness in the final dish.
  • Use Worcestershire sauce sparingly to add complex umami notes that complement the beef and cheese without dominating the overall taste.

Creative Variations for Cheesesteak Tortellini

  • Vegetarian Delight: Replace steak with sliced portobello mushrooms or plant-based beef alternative, maintaining the rich provolone sauce and tortellini for a meat-free version.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free tortellini and verify all sauce ingredients are gluten-free, ensuring those with wheat sensitivities can enjoy the meal.
  • Low-Carb Adaptation: Swap tortellini with zucchini noodles or cauliflower gnocchi, keeping the creamy provolone sauce and protein for a lighter meal.
  • Dairy-Free Alternative: Substitute provolone with dairy-free cheese alternatives like cashew or almond-based cheese, using coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a lactose-free option.

Cheesesteak Tortellini Serving Ideas

  • Philly Cheesesteak Comfort Companion: Pair this creamy tortellini dish with a crisp green salad dressed in tangy vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
  • Hearty Sidekick Strategy: Serve warm crusty garlic bread or toasted French baguette slices to soak up the rich provolone sauce and add delightful crunch.
  • Weekend Feast Enhancer: Complement the meal with a bold red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or a cold craft beer that matches the robust flavors of the steak and cheese sauce.
  • Garnish Elevation Trick: Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or green onions on top for a pop of color and bright herbal notes that cut through the dish's richness.

Storage Tips for Cheesesteak Tortellini

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Seal tightly and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth.
  • Transfer cooled tortellini to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Remove excess air, label with date, and freeze for maximum 2 months. Prevent freezer burn by using tight sealing.
  • Place portion in microwave-safe dish, add splash of beef broth to restore moisture. Cover with microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to distribute heat evenly. Check internal temperature reaches 165°F for food safety.

FAQs

  • Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute the steak with ground beef, chicken, or even a plant-based alternative like seitan or mushrooms for a different flavor profile.

  • Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace the steak with sautéed mushrooms, use vegetable broth instead of beef broth, and choose cheese tortellini to create a vegetarian version of this recipe.

  • What type of provolone cheese works best?

Sharp provolone cheese provides the most robust flavor, but mild provolone will also work well. Shredded provolone melts more easily and creates a smoother sauce.

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Cheesesteak Tortellini In Rich Provolone Sauce Recipe

Cheesesteak Tortellini In Rich Provolone Sauce Recipe


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4.8 from 36 reviews

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Philly-inspired cheesesteak tortellini elevates comfort food with bold Italian-American fusion. Creamy provolone sauce and tender beef create a memorable meal you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein Ingredients:

  • 1 pound (454 grams) ribeye steak, thinly sliced
  • 1 pound (454 grams) cheese tortellini

Vegetable Ingredients:

  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 1 green bell pepper, sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Sauce and Seasoning Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (240 milliliters) heavy cream
  • 1 cup (100 grams) shredded provolone cheese
  • 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare tortellini according to package directions, ensuring al dente texture. Drain and reserve.
  2. Sear beef slices in a hot skillet with olive oil until golden brown and caramelized. Transfer meat to a separate plate.
  3. In the same skillet, sauté diced onions, bell peppers, and minced garlic over medium heat until vegetables soften and become translucent, approximately 4-5 minutes.
  4. Create a rich sauce by adding beef broth, heavy cream, and Worcestershire sauce. Whisk ingredients together and allow mixture to simmer gently.
  5. Gradually incorporate shredded provolone cheese, stirring continuously until sauce becomes smooth and creamy without lumps.
  6. Reintroduce seared beef slices and cooked tortellini into the skillet, gently coating each piece with the luxurious provolone sauce.
  7. Season the dish with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes for a subtle heat kick.
  8. Plate immediately while sauce remains warm and serve with a garnish of fresh herbs for added freshness.

Notes

  • Choose a tender cut like ribeye or sirloin for the most succulent and flavorful cheesesteak tortellini experience.
  • Grate provolone fresh for smoother melting and richer sauce consistency, avoiding pre-shredded cheese which contains anti-caking agents.
  • Adjust red pepper flakes based on heat preference, starting with a pinch and gradually increasing for personalized kick.
  • Swap steak with portobello mushrooms or plant-based protein for a delicious meatless alternative that maintains the dish’s robust flavor profile.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 640 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 820 mg
  • Fat: 42 g
  • Saturated Fat: 20 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 28 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 44 g
  • Cholesterol: 140 mg
Natalie Brooks

Natalie Brooks

Co-Founder & Content Strategist

Expertise

  • Vegan and plant-based recipe creation
  • Meal planning and nutritional analysis
  • Storytelling through blog content, video, and social media

Education

eCornell

  • Program: Plant-Based Nutrition Certificate
  • Focus: Whole-food, plant-based cooking, with a foundation in nutritional science and sustainable eating habits.

Natalie brings the vibrant, plant-powered side to Culinary Duo. After earning her Plant-Based Nutrition Certificate from eCornell, she combined her love for fresh ingredients with a passion for storytelling, aiming to make healthy cooking simple and satisfying.
Her kitchen motto: good food doesn’t need a fancy label, it just needs fresh ideas and a little creativity. Outside of writing and recipe testing, Natalie’s happiest in her garden, exploring farmers’ markets, or mixing global flavors into new kitchen experiments.

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