There's nothing quite like the comforting fusion of creamy pasta and the bold flavors of a classic cheesesteak. This Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce is a decadent dish that's perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
The idea for this recipe came to me on a chilly evening when I was craving the hearty goodness of a Philly cheesesteak but also wanted the warmth of a pasta dish. The result? A family favorite that's rich, satisfying, and ready in under 30 minutes. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe a keeper.
Why You'll Love This Cheesesteak Tortellini In Rich Provolone Sauce
Get ready to fall in love with a dinner that's as comforting as it is irresistible. Cheesesteak Tortellini delivers bold, familiar flavors in a creamy, dreamy package.
First, this recipe is incredibly quick and easy. With pre-made tortellini and a one-pan sauce, you'll have dinner on the table in no time. Perfect for busy weeknights when time is precious but flavor can’t be sacrificed.
Second, the combination of tender beef, sweet sautéed peppers, and gooey provolone creates a balance of savory and sweet that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
This dish is budget-friendly, too. Using just a handful of affordable ingredients, it feeds a family of four without breaking the bank.
Finally, it’s a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving picky eaters or hosting friends, this Cheesesteak Tortellini is a surefire hit that works for any occasion.
Ingredients Notes
The magic of this recipe lies in the harmonious combination of fresh, simple ingredients. Each one contributes to the dish's creamy, cheesy perfection.
The tortellini is the star of the show. Opt for cheese-stuffed tortellini to complement the rich provolone sauce. Fresh tortellini cooks quickly and maintains a tender, chewy texture.
For the protein, go with thinly sliced beef. Ribeye works wonderfully for authentic cheesesteak flavor, but sirloin or shaved steak are excellent budget-friendly alternatives.
Provolone cheese is the heart of the sauce. Its tangy, slightly sharp flavor melts beautifully into a creamy base, creating a sauce that's rich without being overpowering.
Bell peppers and onions add sweetness and a touch of crunch. Use a mix of red, green, or yellow peppers for a vibrant, colorful presentation.
To round out the sauce, heavy cream and a bit of beef broth work together to create a luscious consistency that clings perfectly to every bite of tortellini.
A large skillet is essential for cooking the beef and preparing the sauce. This helps you build layers of flavor without dirtying too many dishes.
How To Make This Cheesesteak Tortellini In Rich Provolone Sauce
This recipe is a breeze to put together, thanks to its straightforward process and simple ingredients.
Start by cooking the tortellini according to package instructions. Once tender, drain and set aside, reserving a bit of the pasta water to thin the sauce if needed.
While the tortellini cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil and cook the thinly sliced beef until browned and tender. Remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.
In the same skillet, sauté diced onions and sliced bell peppers until softened and slightly caramelized. These veggies soak up the delicious browned bits left by the beef, adding layers of flavor to the sauce.
Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream and a splash of beef broth. Stir gently to combine, then add shredded provolone cheese in batches, whisking until fully melted and smooth. The sauce should be creamy and slightly thickened.
Return the beef to the skillet, followed by the cooked tortellini. Toss everything together until the tortellini is well coated in the rich, cheesy sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, a splash of the reserved pasta water will help loosen it up.
Dinner is served! The total time? Just about 30 minutes, making this a perfect meal for any day of the week.
Storage Options
This dish is as practical as it is delicious, with storage options to keep leftovers tasting fresh.
For refrigeration, transfer cooled tortellini to an airtight container and store for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or milk to restore the sauce's creamy texture.
Freezing isn’t recommended for this dish, as the cream-based sauce can separate upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days of preparation.
For reheating, use a skillet over low heat to gently warm the tortellini, stirring frequently to prevent sticking or overcooking.
Variations and Substitutions
One of the best parts of this recipe is how adaptable it is. With a few tweaks, you can make it suit your tastes and dietary preferences.
Swap out the beef for chicken or ground turkey for a lighter take on the dish. Both options pair beautifully with the provolone sauce.
For a vegetarian version, skip the meat entirely and add more sautéed vegetables, like mushrooms or zucchini. The creamy sauce and tortellini are satisfying on their own.
Looking for a spicier twist? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or swap the provolone for pepper jack cheese to bring the heat.
If provolone isn’t your favorite, you can substitute mozzarella or a mix of mozzarella and parmesan for a milder flavor profile.
Don’t have tortellini on hand? Use your favorite short pasta, like penne or rotini. The ridged surfaces hold onto the sauce perfectly.
With endless possibilities and a foolproof base recipe, this Cheesesteak Tortellini is destined to become a staple in your meal rotation. Happy cooking!
PrintCheesesteak Tortellini In Rich Provolone Sauce Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Indulge in a delicious Cheesesteak Tortellini recipe featuring tender tortellini, savory beef, and a rich provolone cheese sauce. Perfect for a satisfying family meal or a cozy dinner night.
Ingredients
- 12 oz cheese tortellini
- 1 lb thinly sliced beef (ribeye or sirloin)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded provolone cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté onion, bell pepper, and garlic until softened.
- Pour in heavy cream and Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a simmer.
- Gradually stir in provolone and mozzarella until melted and creamy.
- Add paprika, then mix in the cooked tortellini and beef. Stir until well coated.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- Substitute chicken or mushrooms for beef if preferred.
- Use fresh tortellini for a softer texture.
- Add red chili flakes for a spicy kick.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 880mg
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