Cheesesteak Tortellini

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

What makes this dish so special is how it marries the familiar, satisfying flavors of a cheesesteak with the indulgent comfort of pasta. The combination of tender, thinly sliced steak, caramelized onions, and green peppers coated in a creamy, savory provolone sauce gives each bite a burst of flavor. And let’s not forget the creamy cheese tortellini that perfectly soaks up all that rich sauce. It’s a comforting, hearty dish that’s just perfect for weeknights when you want to try something new, but still crave the warmth and satisfaction of a traditional meal.

It’s easy to prepare and comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings when you’re short on time but still want something indulgent. Whether you’re cooking for the family, a dinner party, or just craving a filling meal for yourself, this Cheesesteak Tortellini is guaranteed to please everyone at the table. Plus, it’s as much about the flavors as it is about the textures tender steak, melty provolone, and soft, cheesy tortellini all come together in a mouthwatering combination.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this dish, you’ll need a handful of simple, yet impactful ingredients that work together to create a mouthwatering meal. Here’s the rundown:

• 12 oz cheese tortellini
• 1 lb thinly sliced steak (ribeye or flank steak)
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 1/2 cups shredded provolone cheese
• 1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Preparation

Step 1: Cook the Tortellini
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions. Typically, fresh tortellini takes just a few minutes to cook. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Steak
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced steak and cook for 3-4 minutes until browned. Don’t overcook the steak, as it should remain tender. Once cooked, transfer the steak to a plate and set it aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the sliced green bell pepper and onion. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and begin to caramelize. Add the minced garlic to the pan and cook for another minute, until fragrant.

Step 4: Make the Savory Provolone Sauce
Pour the beef broth into the skillet with the caramelized vegetables. Let it simmer for 2 minutes, scraping up any flavorful bits left in the pan from cooking the steak. Then, stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer. Slowly add the shredded provolone cheese, stirring until it melts into the sauce and becomes smooth. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Combine Everything
Add the cooked steak back into the skillet and stir to combine. Finally, gently fold in the cooked tortellini, making sure each piece is coated with the creamy sauce. Let everything simmer together for another 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Variation

One of the best things about Cheesesteak Tortellini is its flexibility you can easily customize the dish to fit different dietary preferences or flavor profiles. Here are some ideas for tweaking the recipe:

For a Vegetarian Version: If you’re looking to make a vegetarian version of this dish, you can swap out the steak for something like sautéed mushrooms or even plant-based steak substitutes. Mushrooms, particularly cremini or portobello, can provide a meaty texture and absorb the flavors of the sauce, making them a perfect replacement. Alternatively, tempeh is a great plant-based protein option that will also work wonderfully when sautéed and added to the sauce.

Gluten-Free: If you follow a gluten-free diet, you can easily make this dish gluten-free by swapping the regular tortellini for gluten-free tortellini or another gluten-free pasta, like rice or corn-based pasta. Be sure to check the Worcestershire sauce, as some brands contain gluten, or opt for a gluten-free version.

Dairy-Free: For a dairy-free version, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. You can also swap the provolone for a dairy-free cheese that melts well. Just be sure to pick one that will provide the same creamy consistency, and you can still enjoy the comforting flavors of this dish.

Spicy Cheesesteak: If you like a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce. You can also opt for a spicy cheese like pepper jack instead of provolone to give the dish an extra kick.

How to Serve

This Cheesesteak Tortellini with Savory Provolone Sauce is a complete meal on its own, but if you’re looking for some ideas to elevate your dinner or add variety, here are a few suggestions for complementary sides and garnishes to round out the meal.

1. Garlic Bread or Crusty Bread
   What’s better than dipping a slice of warm, crispy garlic bread into a creamy, cheesy sauce? The garlic and buttery crunch of the bread complement the rich provolone sauce and help balance the richness of the tortellini and steak.

2. Fresh Salad
   A fresh, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette can provide a nice contrast to the richness of the dish. Consider arugula or mixed greens with a lemon-based dressing, which will cut through the creaminess and add a light, refreshing element to your meal.

3. Roasted Vegetables
   For a more wholesome side, roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts are perfect. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of the veggies, and the slight char adds an additional layer of flavor that pairs nicely with the savory steak and creamy sauce.

4. Steamed Green Beans
   Steamed green beans or snap peas with a dash of lemon and butter are another great option. The slight crunch and freshness of green beans make for a lovely contrast to the creamy tortellini and savory steak.

Recipe Tips

Here are a few helpful tips to ensure that your Cheesesteak Tortellini with Savory Provolone Sauce turns out perfectly every time:

1. Don’t Overcook the Steak
   Since the steak is thinly sliced, it cooks quickly. Be sure to sauté it for just 3-4 minutes, as you want it to be tender and juicy. Overcooking the steak will result in a tougher texture, which isn’t ideal for this dish.

2. Use Fresh Tortellini
   Fresh cheese tortellini (rather than dried tortellini) will give the dish the best texture. It cooks quickly and has a soft, pillowy texture that complements the creamy sauce. If you use dried tortellini, make sure to cook it thoroughly for the best results.

3. Simmer the Sauce Gently
   When making the savory provolone sauce, keep the heat low to avoid curdling the cream. Let the sauce simmer gently, stirring frequently, until it’s smooth and thickened. If it becomes too thick, you can add a bit more beef broth or cream to loosen it up.

4. Grate the Cheese Fresh
   While pre-shredded cheese is convenient, freshly grated provolone cheese will melt more smoothly and give the sauce a better texture. Invest a little extra time in grating the cheese yourself for the best result.

5. Make it Ahead
   If you’re meal prepping or want to save time, you can make the sauce and cook the steak ahead of time. Store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to two days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat everything and toss it with the cooked tortellini for a quick and delicious meal.

6. Save Some Pasta Water
   Always reserve some pasta water before draining your tortellini. The starchy water can be used to help thin out the sauce if it becomes too thick and to help the sauce adhere better to the pasta.

Cooking Notes

• Use a Skillet with High Sides
  Since you’ll be combining the steak, tortellini, and creamy sauce all in one skillet, it’s important to use a skillet with high sides. This will give you enough room to toss everything together without spilling.

• Adjust the Heat
  The optional red pepper flakes can add some heat, but if you want a more mild version of the dish, feel free to skip them. On the other hand, if you love spice, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add some hot sauce to the sauce for an extra kick.

• Avoid Overcrowding the Pan
  When cooking the steak, try not to overcrowd the pan. If necessary, cook the steak in two batches to ensure it gets a nice sear. Overcrowding can cause the steak to steam instead of brown, which will affect the texture and flavor.

Nutritional Information

Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutritional content for one serving of Cheesesteak Tortellini with Savory Provolone Sauce:

• Calories: 540
• Protein: 38g
• Fat: 28g
• Sodium: 800mg

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of steak for this recipe?
Yes, you can definitely use other types of steak, such as sirloin or flank steak. Just be sure to slice the steak thinly to ensure it cooks quickly and remains tender. Ribeye is a popular choice due to its rich marbling, but feel free to substitute with what you have on hand!

2. Is it necessary to use provolone cheese?
While provolone is the key to achieving the creamy, savory flavor in this dish, you can substitute it with other cheeses such as mozzarella or even fontina. Just be aware that this will slightly change the flavor profile, but it will still be delicious.

3. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute the cheese tortellini and pasta with gluten-free versions. Many grocery stores offer gluten-free tortellini and pasta options, so you can still enjoy the creamy and savory flavors without the gluten.

4. Can I use pre-cooked steak?
While it’s possible to use pre-cooked steak, we recommend cooking fresh steak for the best texture and flavor. Pre-cooked steak can be tougher and dry out when reheated. However, if you’re in a pinch, you can quickly heat up pre-cooked steak with the garlic and bell peppers to add flavor before combining it with the sauce.

5. What should I do if my sauce becomes too thick?
If the sauce thickens up too much while you’re preparing it, you can always thin it out with a little bit of pasta water, chicken broth, or more cream. Start by adding a small amount, stirring, and checking the consistency until it reaches the desired thickness.

Conclusion

Cheesesteak Tortellini with Savory Provolone Sauce is the perfect combination of comfort and indulgence. With tender steak, rich creaminess, and the perfect amount of cheesy goodness, this dish is sure to impress family and friends alike. Whether you’re enjoying it on a cozy weeknight or serving it at a dinner party, it’s a recipe that brings warmth and satisfaction to any occasion.

What makes this dish truly special is how it brings together classic flavors in a unique and satisfying way. The savory provolone sauce, combined with the tender steak and pasta, creates a comforting meal that’s bursting with flavor in every bite. Plus, the option to customize the recipe to suit your preferences whether that means adding vegetables, making it gluten-free, or spicing it up makes it versatile for everyone at the table.

This recipe is a great way to elevate your weeknight dinners while still keeping things simple and approachable. With just a few steps, you can create a rich, satisfying meal that will become a new favorite in your home. So next time you’re craving something creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor, give Cheesesteak Tortellini with Savory Provolone Sauce a try. Your taste buds will thank you!

Cheesesteak Tortellini

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• Author: Emily Wilkinson
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Ingredients

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Ingredients You’ll Need

• 12 oz cheese tortellini
• 1 lb thinly sliced steak (ribeye or flank steak)
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 1/2 cups shredded provolone cheese
• 1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Preparation

Step 1: Cook the Tortellini
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions. Typically, fresh tortellini takes just a few minutes to cook. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Steak
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced steak and cook for 3-4 minutes until browned. Don’t overcook the steak, as it should remain tender. Once cooked, transfer the steak to a plate and set it aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the sliced green bell pepper and onion. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and begin to caramelize. Add the minced garlic to the pan and cook for another minute, until fragrant.

Step 4: Make the Savory Provolone Sauce
Pour the beef broth into the skillet with the caramelized vegetables. Let it simmer for 2 minutes, scraping up any flavorful bits left in the pan from cooking the steak. Then, stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer. Slowly add the shredded provolone cheese, stirring until it melts into the sauce and becomes smooth. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Combine Everything
Add the cooked steak back into the skillet and stir to combine. Finally, gently fold in the cooked tortellini, making sure each piece is coated with the creamy sauce. Let everything simmer together for another 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes

Nutrition

• Calories: 540
• Sodium: 800
• Fat: 28
• Protein: 38