Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce – A Creamy, Cheesy Delight
Cheese lovers and pasta enthusiasts, get ready for a dish that combines the best of both worlds! This Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce brings together tender, flavorful steak, cheesy tortellini, and a velvety, creamy provolone sauce that will leave you craving more. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight dinner or an indulgent weekend treat, this easy and satisfying recipe is guaranteed to impress.
Introduction
There’s nothing quite like the combination of hearty steak, gooey cheese, and delicious pasta in one dish. This Cheesesteak Tortellini is inspired by the classic Philly cheesesteak sandwich, but instead of serving it on a hoagie roll, we’re pairing it with cheese-filled tortellini and a rich, creamy provolone sauce. The result? A dish that is both decadent and comforting, with savory flavors, a luscious texture, and just the right amount of cheesiness.
What makes this recipe even better is how simple and quick it is to prepare. With just 35 minutes from start to finish, you can have a restaurant-quality meal ready at home. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, yet elegant enough to serve for special occasions.
Let’s dive into this irresistibly creamy, cheesy, and savory Cheesesteak Tortellini recipe!
Ingredients
To make this delicious Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce, gather the following ingredients:
Essential Ingredients:
- 1 lb steak (ribeye or sirloin), thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 bell pepper (any color), sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 package (9 oz) cheese tortellini
- 1 1/4 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup provolone cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How to Make Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce
1. Cook the Tortellini
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside while you prepare the sauce and steak.
2. Sear the Steak
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced steak, season with salt and black pepper, and sear for about 2-3 minutes per side, until nicely browned but still tender. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and bell peppers. Sauté for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables become soft and slightly caramelized. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
4. Make the Creamy Provolone Sauce
Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then slowly whisk in the shredded provolone cheese and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. If you like a bit of heat, add 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes at this stage.
5. Combine Everything
Return the cooked steak and cheese tortellini to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss everything together, ensuring that the pasta and steak are well coated in the rich, cheesy provolone sauce. Let everything heat through for another 2-3 minutes.
6. Garnish & Serve
Remove from heat and sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy this indulgent, creamy Cheesesteak Tortellini!
Helpful Tips
- Use High-Quality Steak: Ribeye or sirloin works best for this recipe because of their tenderness and rich flavor. Slice the steak as thinly as possible to mimic the texture of classic cheesesteak.
- Don’t Overcook the Tortellini: Overcooked pasta can become too soft when mixed with the creamy sauce. Cook just until al dente.
- Melt Cheese Slowly: Adding the provolone and Parmesan cheese gradually prevents the sauce from becoming grainy. Stir constantly for a smooth consistency.
- Make it Spicier: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicier version.
- Swap the Pasta: If you don’t have tortellini, try using penne, fettuccine, or rigatoni for a similar cheesy pasta dish.
Cooking Tips
- Searing the Steak Perfectly: Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the steak. This helps develop a nice crust while keeping the inside juicy.
- Caramelizing the Onions: If you have extra time, cook the onions on low heat for 10-15 minutes to enhance their natural sweetness.
- Thicker Sauce Option: If you prefer an even thicker sauce, stir in 1 teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 teaspoons of water before adding the cheese.
Serving Suggestions
This Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce pairs well with:
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
- Roasted Vegetables: A side of roasted asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or zucchini complements this dish beautifully.
- Fresh Salad: A crisp Caesar salad or garden salad adds a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta.
- Red Wine: A glass of Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot pairs wonderfully with the richness of the steak and cheese sauce.
Nutritional Information
Per Serving:
- Calories: 540 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Protein: 32g
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 4g
- Calcium: 25%
- Iron: 15%
Storage & Leftovers
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm the pasta over low heat on the stove, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce.
- Freezing: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze portions for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes! While provolone provides the classic cheesesteak flavor, you can also use mozzarella, cheddar, or gouda for a different twist.
What if I don’t eat beef?
You can substitute the steak with chicken, shrimp, or even mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the steak and sauce ahead of time, then reheat and add the cooked tortellini when ready to serve.
Related Recipes You’ll Love
If you enjoyed this Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce, check out these other delicious recipes:
- Teriyaki Salmon Bowls with Crispy Brussels Sprouts
- Crispy Fish Batter Recipe
- Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup
- Oyster Stew – A Classic Comfort Dish
Conclusion
This Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce is the ultimate comfort food, blending the best flavors of steak, pasta, and creamy cheese sauce into one dish. Try it today for a meal that’s sure to impress! 🍽️🧀