Introduction
If you’re craving the hearty flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak, but want to switch things up, this Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce will take your taste buds on an unforgettable journey. Combining the iconic elements of a Philly cheesesteak with the comforting textures of cheese-filled tortellini, this dish is a savory indulgence that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Packed with tender beef, caramelized onions, bell peppers, and the creamy richness of provolone cheese, this recipe is a must-try for pasta lovers and cheesesteak enthusiasts alike. With its flavorful sauce and filling combination of ingredients, it’s the ultimate marriage of comfort food and Italian cuisine.
In this blog post, you’ll learn how to make this mouthwatering dish, tips for variations, storage instructions, and answers to frequently asked questions. Let’s dive into this delicious cheesesteak tortellini recipe!
Ingredients
For the Cheesesteak Tortellini:
- 1 lb cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 1 lb rib-eye steak, thinly sliced (or sirloin steak for a leaner option)
- 1 medium yellow onion, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Rich Provolone Sauce:
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 ½ cups provolone cheese, shredded (use a combination of provolone and mozzarella for extra gooeyness)
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Directions
Step 1: Cook the Tortellini
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to package instructions (typically 2-3 minutes for fresh tortellini, or about 6-7 minutes for frozen).
- Drain the tortellini and set it aside. Reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water in case you need to thin the sauce later.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheesesteak Filling
- While the tortellini cooks, heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat.
- Add the sliced onions and bell peppers, seasoning with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook for 6-8 minutes until the vegetables soften and become caramelized.
- Add the thinly sliced steak to the pan with the vegetables, sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, and adjust salt and pepper to taste. Cook the steak for 3-4 minutes, or until browned and cooked through. Set aside.
Step 3: Make the Provolone Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat.
- Stir in 2 tbsp flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux, whisking constantly to avoid any lumps.
- Gradually add the whole milk and heavy cream, whisking to combine and smooth out the mixture. Let it simmer for about 3-4 minutes until it begins to thicken.
- Lower the heat and stir in the shredded provolone cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Continue stirring until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Combine Everything
- Add the cooked tortellini, cheesesteak filling (steak and vegetables), and any juices from the pan into the creamy provolone sauce.
- Gently stir to coat the tortellini and steak mixture in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
- Allow everything to simmer together for 2-3 minutes until heated through, and the flavors have melded together.
Step 5: Serve
- Divide the cheesesteak tortellini between plates or bowls.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and extra grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Serve immediately, and enjoy your cheesy, comforting dish!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4 servings
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
This cheesesteak tortellini recipe is quick enough for a weeknight meal but impressive enough for a dinner party. The rich, creamy sauce and savory flavors will keep everyone coming back for seconds!
Variations
If you want to customize this dish to fit your preferences, there are plenty of options to get creative:
- Meat Alternatives: Instead of rib-eye steak, you can use chicken breast, ground beef, or even vegetarian options like tofu or Portobello mushrooms.
- Sauce Customizations: For an added kick, try incorporating jalapeños or hot sauce into the sauce for a spicy version of the dish.
- Cheese: While provolone is the star of this dish, you can blend in other cheeses like mozzarella, cheddar, or gruyère for a different flavor profile.
- Vegetable Add-ins: Feel free to add more vegetables, such as mushrooms, spinach, or even zucchini, for a more veggie-packed dish.
Storage and Reheating
Storage:
- Refrigerator: Store leftover cheesesteak tortellini in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. The sauce will thicken as it sits, so you may need to add a splash of milk or cream when reheating.
- Freezer: You can freeze the cooked tortellini and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months. To preserve texture, freeze the pasta and sauce separately if possible.
Reheating:
- Microwave: Reheat in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between. Add a little milk or cream to loosen up the sauce.
- Stovetop: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or pasta water to restore the creamy consistency.
10 FAQs About Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce
- Can I use a different type of pasta?
- Yes! If you don’t have tortellini, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine.
- Can I make this dish vegetarian?
- Absolutely! You can swap the beef for vegetarian-friendly protein, like tofu or seitan, and leave out the cheese for a dairy-free version.
- Is provolone the best cheese for this recipe?
- While provolone gives a rich, melty texture, you can mix it with mozzarella, cheddar, or gruyère for extra flavor.
- Can I use a different kind of meat?
- Yes, chicken or ground beef are great alternatives. For a leaner version, you could use turkey or even lamb.
- How do I avoid the sauce from becoming too thick?
- If your sauce thickens too much, simply add a splash of pasta water, milk, or cream to loosen it up.
- Can I prepare this dish in advance?
- You can prepare all the components ahead of time and store them separately. Simply combine and heat everything together just before serving.
- How do I make this dish spicier?
- Add jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a bit of hot sauce to the sauce to add a spicy kick.
- Is this dish kid-friendly?
- Yes, the creamy cheese sauce and tender meat make it a hit with kids! You can also adjust the spice level to suit their preferences.
- Can I make this gluten-free?
- Yes, simply swap the tortellini and flour for gluten-free alternatives.
- What can I serve with this dish?
- Serve this cheesesteak tortellini with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Conclusion
This Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce is an absolute game-changer in the world of pasta dishes. Combining the beloved flavors of a Philly cheesesteak with the creamy comfort of cheese tortellini, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or an indulgent treat for a special gathering, this recipe is sure to impress.
With the rich, velvety provolone sauce and a customizable range of ingredients, you can adapt this dish to fit your personal tastes. Give it a try and let the cheesy, meaty goodness elevate your next meal. Bon appétit! 🍽️