Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce Recipe

Introduction

This Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce is the ultimate easy weeknight dinner, combining classic Philly cheesesteak flavors with cheesy tortellini in a creamy, savory sauce. It comes together in one pan for minimal cleanup and maximum satisfaction. For more quick pasta dinners, try Easy Beef & Parmesan Tortellini in Creamy Sauce Ready in 30 Minutes.

Ingredients

This Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce combines tender beef, savory vegetables, and cheesy pasta in a luxuriously creamy sauce that’s deeply satisfying and comforting.

• 1 package (12 oz) cheese tortellini
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound thinly sliced beef steak
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded provolone cheese
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	20 minutes
Total Time	35 minutes

Context: This Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce is about 20% faster to prepare than similar recipes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare Your Ingredients

Slice 1 lb ribeye steak very thinly against the grain and chop 1 medium onion and 1 bell pepper. Measure 1 lb cheese tortellini, 2 cups beef broth, 1 cup heavy cream, and 2 cups shredded provolone cheese. Having everything ready ensures a smooth cooking process.

Step 2 — Cook the Vegetables

Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté onion and bell pepper for 5–7 minutes until softened and lightly browned. Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper.

Step 3 — Sear the Steak

Push vegetables to one side, add steak slices in a single layer, and cook 1–2 minutes per side until no longer pink. Avoid overcrowding to get a good sear. Remove steak and veggies to a plate.

Step 4 — Start the Provolone Sauce

In the same skillet, pour in beef broth and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring to incorporate any browned bits from the pan. This builds flavor for your rich provolone sauce.

Step 5 — Cook the Tortellini

Add cheese tortellini to the simmering sauce. Cook according to package directions, usually 5–7 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 6 — Melt the Provolone

Reduce heat to low and gradually stir in shredded provolone until fully melted and the sauce is smooth. For best results, add cheese a handful at a time and stir constantly.

Step 7 — Combine Everything

Return the cooked steak and vegetables to the skillet. Gently fold into the cheesesteak tortellini and sauce until evenly coated. Heat through for 1–2 minutes.

Step 8 — Adjust Seasoning and Serve

Taste and add more salt or pepper if needed. For extra richness, stir in 1 tbsp butter at the end. Serve your cheesesteak tortellini in rich provolone sauce immediately while hot.

Nutritional Information

Calories	520
Protein	28g
Carbohydrates	42g
Fat	26g
Fiber	3g
Sodium	890mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Lean Ground Turkey — A lighter protein option that absorbs the rich Provolone sauce flavors while reducing overall fat content.
• Whole Wheat Tortellini — Adds fiber and nutrients to your Cheesesteak Tortellini while maintaining the classic pasta texture.
• Zucchini Noodles — A low-carb alternative that pairs wonderfully with the savory cheesesteak filling and creamy sauce.
• Dairy-Free Cheese Sauce — Use cashew cream or nutritional yeast-based sauces to create a vegan-friendly version of this rich Provolone sauce.
• Gluten-Free Tortellini — Available in most grocery stores, allowing those with gluten sensitivities to enjoy this Cheesesteak Tortellini dish.
• Low-Sodium Broth — Reduces sodium content without compromising the deep, savory flavor profile of the sauce.
• Mushroom Blend — Replace half the meat with sautéed mushrooms for a plant-forward version with earthy, umami notes.
• Greek Yogurt Sauce — A tangy, protein-packed alternative to the traditional cheese sauce that lightens up the dish significantly.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a crisp side salad featuring romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the Provolone sauce.
• Serve alongside garlic bread or toasted baguette slices for dipping into the creamy sauce.
• Accompany with sautéed bell peppers and onions to enhance the classic cheesesteak flavor profile.
• Offer as a comforting main course for casual weeknight dinners or cozy weekend meals.
• Present in shallow bowls to showcase the tortellini and sauce, garnished with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan.
• Ideal for potlucks or family gatherings where a hearty, crowd-pleasing pasta dish is desired.

This Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce works beautifully for both everyday dinners and special occasions, delivering a satisfying blend of familiar flavors in an elegant pasta presentation.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Overcooking the steak strips, making them tough. Fix: Sear them quickly over high heat just until browned, then remove from the pan to add back later.
• Mistake: Using pre-shredded provolone, which contains anti-caking agents. Fix: Shred a block of high-quality provolone yourself for a smoother, creamier sauce.
• Mistake: Crowding the pan when sautéing vegetables. Fix: Cook onions and peppers in batches if necessary to ensure they caramelize instead of steam.
• Mistake: Adding cheese to a boiling sauce, causing it to break. Fix: Always remove the sauce from heat and let it cool slightly before gradually whisking in the cheese.
• Mistake: Overcooking the tortellini, leading to a mushy texture. Fix: Cook the tortellini just until al dente, as it will continue to absorb sauce later.
• Mistake: Using a thin, watery sauce base. Fix: Create a proper roux with butter and flour as the foundation for a luxuriously thick provolone sauce.
• Mistake: Not seasoning the dish in layers. Fix: Season the steak, vegetables, and sauce individually to build a more complex and balanced flavor profile.
• Mistake: Skipping the fond (browned bits) from cooking the meat and veggies. Fix: Deglaze the pan with a splash of beef broth to incorporate those rich, savory flavors into your sauce.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store your Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat: Gently reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

For best quality, avoid repeated reheating cycles. The rich Provolone sauce may separate slightly upon reheating; a splash of milk or cream can help restore its creamy consistency.

Conclusion

This Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce is a comforting, flavor-packed meal that’s surprisingly simple to make. Give it a try and let us know what you think in the comments! For more easy dinners, check out our Crockpot Cheesy Beef and Noodles Recipe and French Onion Chicken and Rice Bake Recipe. Don’t forget to subscribe for more delicious recipes!

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FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese for the sauce?

Yes, you can substitute provolone with other good melting cheeses like mozzarella or white cheddar. However, provolone gives the Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce its signature flavor, so the taste will vary slightly.

What can I use instead of beef for this recipe?

For a different take, you can use sliced chicken, mushrooms, or plant-based beef alternatives. These substitutes will still pair well with the rich provolone sauce in this Cheesesteak Tortellini dish.

How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or broth to keep the Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce creamy.