Cheesesteak Tortellini in Creamy Provolone Sauce Recipe

If you adore the classic flavors of a Philadelphia cheesesteak but crave a comforting pasta twist, you are in for an absolute treat with this Cheesesteak Tortellini in Creamy Provolone Sauce. This dish marries the savory, tender beef and sautéed peppers of a cheesesteak with pillowy cheese tortellini, all enveloped in a luscious, cheesy provolone sauce that feels like a warm hug. It’s a perfect blend of indulgence and familiarity that comes together quickly and easily, making it a standout comfort meal for any night of the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe plays an essential role, from building layers of flavor to creating a luscious texture and appetizing colors that make this dish visually and gastronomically irresistible.

• Cheese tortellini (1 lb): The perfect pillow-like pasta that holds all the cheesy goodness inside.
• Olive oil (2 tbsp): Used twice for sautéing and tossing, it adds a subtle fruitiness and prevents sticking.
• Thinly sliced beef steak (1 lb): Ribeye or sirloin work beautifully for tender, flavorful pieces that mimic the traditional cheesesteak.
• Large onion (1, thinly sliced): Adds sweetness and depth as it caramelizes with the beef.
• Green bell pepper (1, thinly sliced): Provides a slight crunch and fresh, slightly bitter notes for balance.
• Italian seasoning (2 tsp): A fragrant herb blend that ties the whole dish together with warm, aromatic flavors.
• Salt and pepper: Basic but crucial seasoning to enhance every bite.
• Butter (2 tbsp): For a rich, creamy base to the provolone sauce.
• All-purpose flour (2 tbsp): Creates the roux that thickens the sauce to silky perfection.
• Milk (2 cups): The creamy foundation for the sauce, ensuring smoothness.
• Shredded provolone cheese (1 cup): The star of the sauce, delivering that distinctive sharp and creamy flavor synonymous with cheesesteaks.

How to Make Cheesesteak Tortellini in Creamy Provolone Sauce

Step 1: Cook the Tortellini

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Toss in your cheese tortellini and cook according to package instructions until they’re al dente – tender but with a slight bite. Once drained, toss them with a tablespoon of olive oil; this simple step keeps the tortellini from clumping together and adds a subtle sheen that’s just so inviting.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheesesteak Filling

Next, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add your thinly sliced beef, along with the onions and green bell peppers. Sprinkle everything with Italian seasoning as you sauté, which brings out layers of hearty, herbal flavor. Stir frequently until the beef is perfectly browned and the veggies soften just right. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then set this deli-inspired filling aside for the sauce finale.

Step 3: Make the Provolone Sauce

In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to form a smooth roux — this is the secret that thickens your sauce beautifully, preventing it from being runny. Slowly add milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps, cooking the mixture until it thickens nicely. Reduce the heat and stir in the shredded provolone cheese and a dash more Italian seasoning. Keep stirring until the cheese melts fully, creating a rich and velvety sauce. Season with salt and pepper to ensure every spoonful sings.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Return the cheesesteak filling to the skillet, then add the cooked tortellini and generous ladles of your creamy provolone sauce. Gently toss everything together, making sure every tortellini is coated with that luscious sauce and the filling is evenly distributed. Keep it warm on low heat until you’re ready to serve this crowd-pleaser piping hot, optionally garnished with extra shredded provolone and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning for that finishing touch.

How to Serve Cheesesteak Tortellini in Creamy Provolone Sauce

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a handful of shredded provolone cheese makes a colorful and flavorful garnish. For a little extra zing, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes offers a pleasant kick that complements the creamy sauce perfectly.

Side Dishes

This hearty dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks bring a satisfying crunch and echo the comforting flavors of the sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve your Cheesesteak Tortellini in Creamy Provolone Sauce in individual mini cast iron skillets, making each portion feel special. You can also layer it in a baking dish and broil with extra provolone on top for a bubbly, golden crust.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Cheesesteak Tortellini in Creamy Provolone Sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool it completely before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezing

This dish freezes well, especially if you want to meal-prep. Place it in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. When freezing, it’s best to keep the sauce slightly on the thicker side so it won’t separate upon thawing.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Add a splash of milk if the sauce thickens too much. Microwaving works too; just cover the dish and heat in short intervals to keep it creamy and smooth.

FAQs

Can I use frozen tortellini for this recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen tortellini works perfectly well and can be cooked directly from frozen, just follow package instructions for best results. It’s convenient and doesn’t sacrifice any flavor in the Cheesesteak Tortellini in Creamy Provolone Sauce.

What’s the best cut of beef for cheesesteak filling?

Ribeye is ideal because of its marbling and tenderness, but sirloin is a great leaner alternative that still delivers fantastic flavor. Just ensure the steak is thinly sliced to cook evenly and stay tender.

Can I substitute the provolone cheese in the sauce?

You can experiment with other melting cheeses like mozzarella or fontina, but provolone gives that authentic cheesesteak vibe. Mixing in a little sharp cheddar can add extra depth if you want to get creative.

How spicy is this dish?

This Cheesesteak Tortellini in Creamy Provolone Sauce is generally mild, but the flavor is rich and savory. You can add crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce to your own serving to spice things up according to your taste.

Is this dish suitable for a quick weeknight dinner?

Definitely! With a prep time of 15 minutes and a total cook time around 30 minutes, it’s a perfect midweek meal that feels indulgent but comes together fairly quickly.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesesteak Tortellini in Creamy Provolone Sauce is an absolute game-changer when you want something satisfying, comforting, and packed with bold flavors. It’s a celebration of two beloved foods in one bowl, perfect for sharing or enjoying as a solo treat. Give this recipe a try—you might just find your new favorite cozy dinner to come back to time and again!

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