Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce Recipe

The Dreamiest Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce Recipe

Comfort meets innovation in this hearty cheesesteak tortellini that blends Philly street food with Italian pasta traditions.

Meaty slices of tender beef mingle with soft, cheese-filled pillows swimming in a luxurious provolone cream sauce.

Sharp cheddar and caramelized onions add depth to every remarkable bite.

Peppers provide a subtle kick that awakens your palate with zesty excitement.

Philadelphia’s iconic sandwich transforms into a decadent pasta experience that feels both familiar and surprising.

Layers of flavor promise a meal that will become your new weeknight obsession.

Key Ingredients for Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce

Main Protein:
  • Beef: A hearty meat that provides the classic cheesesteak flavor and substantial protein for the dish.
Vegetables:
  • Onions, Bell Pepper: These aromatic vegetables add sweetness and depth to the cheesesteak-inspired flavor profile.
Dairy and Sauce Components:
  • Heavy Cream, Shredded Provolone Cheese: These ingredients create a rich, creamy sauce that coats the tortellini with a luxurious cheese flavor.
Pasta:
  • Tortellini: The stuffed pasta that serves as the base of this creative cheesesteak-inspired dish.
Cooking Fat:
  • Olive Oil: A flavorful oil used to sauté the vegetables and meat, adding a subtle richness to the overall dish.

How to Prepare Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce

Step 1: Sizzle Beef and Veggies

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in thinly sliced beef, chopped onions, and diced bell peppers. Cook and stir the ingredients until the beef browns and the vegetables become soft and slightly caramelized, releasing their rich, savory aroma.

Step 2: Create Creamy Provolone Sauce

Pour heavy cream into the skillet with the cooked beef and vegetables. Sprinkle shredded provolone cheese over the mixture. Gently stir and let the cheese melt completely, transforming the liquid into a velvety, smooth sauce that coats the ingredients with a luxurious, tangy flavor.

Step 3: Combine Tortellini with Sauce

Add pre-cooked tortellini to the skillet filled with cheesy sauce and sautéed ingredients. Carefully toss and stir, ensuring each pasta pocket gets thoroughly covered in the decadent provolone sauce. The tortellini will absorb the rich flavors, creating a mouthwatering blend of textures and tastes.

Pro Tips for Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce

  • Use thinly sliced ribeye or sirloin steak for authentic cheesesteak flavor and tender texture.
  • Caramelize onions slowly to enhance their natural sweetness and depth of flavor.
  • Choose high-quality provolone cheese with rich, sharp notes for a more intense sauce.
  • Season the beef with salt and pepper just before cooking to lock in maximum taste.
  • Consider adding sliced mushrooms for extra umami and a classic Philly cheesesteak touch.

Flavorful Variations of Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce

  • Philly Chicken Tortellini: Swap beef with grilled chicken strips for a lighter protein option, maintaining the classic Philly cheesesteak flavor profile.
  • Vegetarian Mushroom Tortellini: Replace beef with sautéed portobello mushrooms and add roasted red peppers for a meaty, vegetarian alternative.
  • Spicy Southwest Tortellini: Incorporate jalapeños, use pepper jack cheese, and add a dash of chili powder to create a zesty, southwestern-inspired version.
  • Mediterranean Tortellini: Substitute beef with lamb, use feta cheese, and add sun-dried tomatoes and spinach for a Mediterranean culinary experience.

Pairing Suggestions for Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce

  • Elevate Cheese Flavor Pairing: Pair this rich, creamy cheesesteak tortellini with a crisp, aged cheddar that complements the provolone's tangy notes and enhances the beef's robust flavor.
  • Beer Harmony Match: Select a hoppy amber ale or brown ale with malty undertones that cut through the dish's richness and balance the creamy provolone sauce.
  • Wine Complement Selection: Choose a medium-bodied red wine like Zinfandel or Malbec, whose bold fruit and peppery characteristics perfectly match the savory beef and cheesy elements.
  • Refreshing Side Salad: Create a light arugula salad with balsamic vinaigrette to provide a crisp, peppery contrast that cleanses the palate between rich, decadent bites.

Storage Guidelines for Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days, ensuring the dish is completely cooled before sealing to prevent bacterial growth.
  • Transfer portions to freezer-safe containers or zip-lock bags, removing excess air, and freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.
  • Place portion in a microwave-safe dish, add a splash of cream to restore moisture, cover, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to distribute heat evenly.
  • Warm gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring continuously and adding a little cream or broth to prevent sticking and maintain sauce consistency.

FAQs About Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce

  • What are the key ingredients in this Cheesesteak Tortellini recipe?

The main ingredients include beef, onions, bell peppers, heavy cream, provolone cheese, and tortellini pasta.

  • Is this dish considered a traditional cheesesteak preparation?

No, this recipe is a creative twist on the classic Philly cheesesteak, transforming the traditional sandwich into a creamy pasta dish.

  • Can I use a different type of pasta if I don't have tortellini?

While tortellini works best, you could substitute with another stuffed pasta like ravioli or use a short pasta like penne or rigatoni.

  • What makes the sauce creamy and rich in this recipe?

The combination of heavy cream and melted provolone cheese creates a luxurious, smooth sauce that coats the pasta and meat.

What Makes Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce So Delicious

  • Savor Philly-Inspired Fusion: Transform classic cheesesteak flavors into a comforting pasta dish that combines the best of two beloved cuisines.
  • Quickly Craft Gourmet Comfort: Prepare a restaurant-quality meal in minutes with simple ingredients and minimal cooking techniques that anyone can master.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Dinner Solution: Delight both kids and adults with a creamy, cheesy pasta that sneaks in vegetables and protein for a well-rounded meal.
  • Customize with Ease: Swap ingredients or add extra toppings to make this recipe your own, perfect for personalizing to family preferences or using up leftover ingredients.
Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce Recipe

Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 35 reviews

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 2 1x

Description

Philly-inspired flavors dance through this cheesesteak tortellini, blending hearty steak strips with creamy provolone sauce. Pasta lovers will savor each bite of this comforting meal that brings classic sandwich ingredients into an irresistible Italian-American fusion.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Protein:

  • 0.5 pounds (1/2 lb) beef, thinly sliced

Vegetables:

  • 0.5 cups (1/2 cup) onion, sliced
  • 0.5 cups (1/2 cup) green bell pepper, sliced

Pasta and Dairy:

  • 2 cups tortellini, cooked
  • 1 cup provolone cheese, shredded
  • 0.5 cups (1/2 cup) heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high temperature, sautéing thinly sliced beef, diced onions, and julienned bell peppers until meat is perfectly browned and vegetables are translucent, approximately 6-8 minutes.
  2. Reduce heat to medium-low and pour in heavy cream, gradually whisking in shredded provolone cheese until the sauce transforms into a velvety, uniform consistency.
  3. Introduce pre-cooked tortellini into the creamy provolone mixture, gently folding to ensure each pasta pocket is lavishly coated with the rich, savory sauce.
  4. Allow the tortellini to simmer in the sauce for an additional 2-3 minutes, enabling the flavors to meld and the pasta to absorb the decadent provolone cream.
  5. Remove from heat and let the dish rest for a moment, allowing the sauce to slightly thicken and intensify its robust flavor profile before serving hot.

Notes

  • Choose lean beef cuts like sirloin or strip steak for a more tender and flavorful cheesesteak experience.
  • Slice vegetables thinly and uniformly to ensure even cooking and balanced texture in every bite.
  • For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream, which reduces overall calorie content.
  • Vegetarian option: Replace beef with portobello mushrooms or plant-based meat alternatives to maintain the rich, savory profile of the dish.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2
  • Calories: 865 kcal
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 730 mg
  • Fat: 65 g
  • Saturated Fat: 27 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 32 g
  • Trans Fat: 1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 38 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 42 g
  • Cholesterol: 130 mg
Olivia Brooks

Olivia Brooks

Contributing Writer

Expertise

  • Healthy recipe development
  • Plant-based cooking
  • Nutritional analysis
  • Food writing and content creation

Education

Culinary Institute of America
Accelerated Culinary Arts Certificate Program
Focus: Culinary fundamentals, nutrition, and healthy cooking technique


Olivia believes good food should feed both the body and the soul. She earned her Accelerated Culinary Arts Certificate from the Culinary Institute of America, where she focused on nutrition and practical cooking techniques that make healthy eating easy.
At 10 Below Ice Cream, Olivia shares single-serving recipes that are fresh, plant-forward, and full of heart. She loves helping people eat better, without stress, strict rules, or sacrificing flavor.
Beyond the kitchen, Olivia spends her time tending her backyard garden, practicing yoga, and discovering hidden gems in Portland’s food scene.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star