The Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce Recipe is a deliciously indulgent twist on two classic favorites combined into one irresistible meal. Imagine tender cheese tortellini bathed in a luxuriously creamy provolone sauce, studded with savory strips of perfectly cooked steak, caramelized onions, and sweet bell peppers. This dish is comfort food elevated to a whole new level, delivering rich flavors and satisfying textures that make every bite feel like a cozy celebration. Perfect for dinner any night of the week, this recipe brings simplicity and heartiness to your table with an amazing flavor combination that’s bound to become a loved staple in your cooking repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet essential, each bringing a unique element to the dish’s texture, flavor, and heartiness. They work together harmoniously to create that creamy, savory depth that makes this recipe so special.
- Cheese tortellini (20-ounce package): Provides a soft, cheesy bite that’s the perfect base for the sauce and toppings.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Adds a subtle fruity richness that’s ideal for sautéing without overpowering the flavors.
- Thinly sliced steak (1/2 pound): Ribeye or sirloin strips bring juicy, meaty goodness and protein to the dish.
- Small onion (1), thinly sliced: Caramelizes gently for sweetness and depth in the sauce.
- Green bell pepper (1), thinly sliced: Adds a crisp bite and fresh color contrast to the richness.
- Butter (2 tablespoons): Essential for starting the roux that thickens the sauce and adds creamy flavor.
- All-purpose flour (2 tablespoons): Helps create a smooth, velvety sauce texture when combined with butter and dairy.
- Milk (1 1/2 cups): Provides a gentle creaminess and lightness that balances the heavy cheese.
- Heavy cream (1/2 cup): Adds richness and luscious mouthfeel to the provolone sauce.
- Shredded provolone cheese (1 1/2 cups): The star ingredient that melts into the sauce, bringing a savory, tangy complexity.
- Garlic powder (1/4 teaspoon): Offers a subtle background warmth that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Salt and black pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings that bring out the natural flavors of every ingredient.
- Chopped parsley (optional): Adds a bright, fresh pop of color and herbaceous note when garnishing.
How to Make Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Tortellini
Start by cooking the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions. This step ensures your pasta is perfectly tender and ready to soak up all that creamy provolone sauce. Once cooked, drain the tortellini and set it aside so it won’t overcook while you prepare the rest of the dish.
Step 2: Sear the Steak
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced steak strips and cook them for just 2 to 3 minutes until they’re nicely browned but still tender. This quick sear locks in the juices and gives the meat a satisfying texture. Remove the steak from the pan and set it aside for now.
Step 3: Sauté Onions and Bell Peppers
Using the same skillet, toss in the sliced onions and green bell peppers. Cook for about 4 to 5 minutes until they soften up and develop a lovely caramelized sweetness. These veggies add fantastic flavor contrasts and a slight crunch to balance the creamy sauce. Set them aside with the steak.
Step 4: Make the Provolone Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter in the skillet. Once melted, whisk in the flour to form a roux—this is what will thicken your sauce beautifully. Keep stirring for 1 to 2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, working steadily until the mixture is smooth and starting to thicken, about 3 to 4 minutes. Season with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to taste.
Step 5: Melt in the Provolone Cheese
Lower the heat to low and gently stir in the shredded provolone cheese until the sauce becomes delectably creamy and smooth. The cheese melts into this luxurious sauce, creating a tangy and savory base that’s irresistibly good.
Step 6: Combine All Ingredients
Finally, add the cooked tortellini, seared steak, and sautéed onions and peppers back into the skillet. Toss everything gently to coat all the ingredients evenly with that rich, cheesy sauce. Allow it to warm through for a minute or two—then you’re ready to serve!
How to Serve Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a vibrant green pop and herbaceous brightness that cuts through the richness, making each plate look as good as it tastes. For an extra touch, crushed red pepper flakes bring a gentle spicy kick that livens up the creamy comfort.
Side Dishes
This dish is absolutely satisfying on its own, but if you want to round out the meal, a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette or some garlic breadsticks pairs beautifully. These sides add freshness and texture contrast, keeping the meal balanced and complete.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun dinner party twist, serve the cheesesteak tortellini in individual shallow bowls with a little extra provolone sauce drizzled on top. You can also layer it with sautéed mushrooms or swap in roasted red peppers for added color and complexity—the possibilities to customize the Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce Recipe are endless!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors meld even more as it sits, making leftovers surprisingly tasty and convenient for quick lunches or dinners.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish, but keep in mind the texture of the creamy sauce may change slightly. To freeze, place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers and use within two months for best quality. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
For best results when reheating, warm the leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much. Microwave works too, but be careful to avoid drying it out.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of provolone?
Absolutely! While provolone brings a distinct tangy richness, you can substitute with mozzarella for a milder taste or fontina for a slightly nuttier flavor. Just choose a cheese that melts well to retain that creamy sauce texture.
What cut of steak works best for this recipe?
Ribeye and sirloin are perfect because they’re tender and flavorful when thinly sliced. However, for a budget-friendly option, well-marbled flank or skirt steak thinly sliced will also shine in this dish.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the steak and add mushrooms or extra bell peppers to compensate for the hearty flavors. You could even incorporate some caramelized tofu for protein while keeping the rich provolone sauce base intact.
Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Definitely. The creamy, cheesy sauce combined with tender tortellini often appeals to kids’ palates. You can keep the seasoning mild and leave out any spicy additions for a kid-friendly dinner everyone will enjoy.
How long does it take to prepare this dish?
The entire Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce Recipe comes together in about 35 minutes—15 minutes for prep and 20 minutes for cooking—making it a perfect option for a satisfying weeknight meal that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend the Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce Recipe enough if you’re craving something creamy, comforting, and packed with bold flavors all in one dish. It’s a wonderful way to dress up tortellini with the hearty appeal of a classic cheesesteak, finished with a luscious provolone sauce that keeps everyone coming back for more. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite pasta dinner!
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Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American-Inspired
- Diet: Kid-Friendly
Description
This Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce is a creamy and savory pasta dish featuring tender steak strips, caramelized onions and peppers, all enveloped in a luscious provolone cheese sauce. Perfect for a comforting weeknight meal, it combines the flavors of classic cheesesteak with cheesy tortellini for a hearty, satisfying dinner.
Ingredients
For the Pasta and Steak
- 1 (20-ounce) package cheese tortellini
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 pound thinly sliced steak (such as ribeye or sirloin), cut into strips
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
For the Provolone Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups shredded provolone cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Garnish
- Chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Tortellini: Prepare the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside to keep warm.
- Sear the Steak: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced steak strips and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until browned but still tender. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Caramelize Onions and Peppers: In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and green bell pepper. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes until they become soft and caramelized. Remove and set aside with the steak.
- Make the Roux: Reduce heat to medium and melt butter in the skillet. Add flour and whisk constantly for 1 to 2 minutes to cook the flour and form a roux.
- Prepare the Sauce: Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream until the mixture is smooth. Let it simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to taste.
- Melt the Cheese: Lower the heat to low and add the shredded provolone cheese, stirring until it melts completely and the sauce becomes creamy.
- Combine All Components: Add the cooked tortellini, seared steak, and caramelized onions and peppers back into the skillet with the sauce. Gently stir to combine everything and heat through evenly.
- Serve: Plate the creamy cheesesteak tortellini hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired for a fresh touch.
Notes
- Use shaved beef or leftover steak to speed up preparation time.
- Add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- This dish reheats well and makes a great meal prep option for weeknights.
