Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce: Comfort Food Elevated

Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce combines the indulgent flavors of a classic cheesesteak sandwich with tender pasta in a creamy, cheesy sauce, creating a comfort food masterpiece that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. This dish is quick to prepare, packed with savory flavor, and delivers a rich, satisfying experience that’s sure to become a favorite. By combining thinly sliced beef, sautéed peppers and onions, and soft cheese tortellini with a velvety provolone sauce, you get the ultimate one-pan comfort dish that is hearty, flavorful, and easy to make at home.

The secret to this dish lies in balancing the flavors of the beef, vegetables, and creamy provolone sauce. Using high-quality thinly sliced beef ensures tenderness and quick cooking, while the peppers and onions add sweetness, texture, and color. The provolone cheese provides a smooth, slightly tangy creaminess that binds the tortellini and beef together into a luxurious sauce. By creating a simple roux with flour and milk, then adding beef broth and cheese, you achieve a perfectly rich sauce without heaviness. Garlic adds aromatic depth, while fresh parsley brightens the dish and enhances its presentation.

Ingredients

Pasta: 12 ounces refrigerated cheese tortellini. Meat & Produce: 1 pound thinly sliced beef (ribeye or sirloin), cut into strips; 1 green bell pepper, sliced; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 medium onion, thinly sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced. Liquids & Cheese: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 ½ cups milk; 1 cup beef broth; 8 ounces provolone cheese, shredded. Seasonings: Salt and pepper, to taste. Garnish: 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional).

Equipment Needed

You’ll need a large skillet or sauté pan, a pot to cook tortellini, a whisk for the sauce, a spatula or wooden spoon for stirring, measuring cups and spoons, and a knife and cutting board for the vegetables and beef.

Step-by-Step Method

Cook the cheese tortellini according to package instructions, then drain and set aside. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced beef and cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned but still tender. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add the sliced green and red bell peppers, onions, and minced garlic. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until the vegetables are softened and slightly caramelized. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons flour over the vegetables and stir well to form a light roux, cooking for about 1 minute to eliminate the raw flour taste. Slowly pour in 1 ½ cups milk and 1 cup beef broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Allow the sauce to simmer for 2–3 minutes until it thickens slightly. Reduce the heat to low and add 8 ounces shredded provolone cheese, stirring until melted and fully incorporated into a smooth, creamy sauce. Return the cooked beef to the skillet and stir to combine with the sauce and vegetables. Add the drained tortellini to the skillet, tossing gently to coat evenly with the provolone sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as needed for your preference. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately while hot for a comforting, indulgent meal.

Tips for Perfect Cheesesteak Tortellini

Use high-quality, fresh tortellini for the best texture and flavor. Slice beef thinly against the grain to ensure tenderness. Do not overcook the beef or vegetables to maintain texture and flavor. Whisk the milk and beef broth gradually into the flour to avoid lumps in the sauce. For extra flavor, sauté the vegetables until they are lightly caramelized. Shred provolone yourself for better melting and smoother sauce consistency. Keep the heat low when melting the cheese to prevent separation or graininess in the sauce.

Variations

Add mushrooms or spinach for extra vegetables and nutrients. Swap provolone with mozzarella or fontina for a slightly different flavor profile. For a spicy twist, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce. Use chicken or turkey strips instead of beef for a lighter protein option. Top with additional shredded cheese before serving for an extra cheesy finish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Cheesesteak Tortellini as a standalone main dish, accompanied by a crisp green salad or garlic bread. For a heartier meal, pair with roasted vegetables or a side of steamed broccoli. This dish is perfect for family dinners, date nights, or meal prep, as it reheats well in the microwave or stovetop. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop to maintain creaminess.

Storing and Reheating

Store any leftover Cheesesteak Tortellini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth if the sauce has thickened. Avoid high heat to prevent the sauce from separating and the cheese from becoming grainy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use frozen tortellini? Yes, just adjust cooking time according to package instructions and drain well before adding to the sauce. Can I make this ahead of time? You can prep the beef and vegetables in advance and assemble the sauce just before serving. Can I use a different cheese? Provolone is ideal for its flavor and meltability, but mozzarella, fontina, or a blend can be used. Is this dish gluten-free? Not with regular tortellini and flour; use gluten-free tortellini and a gluten-free flour substitute for a gluten-free version. Can I add other vegetables? Yes, mushrooms, spinach, zucchini, or broccoli work well. Can I freeze this dish? It’s best served fresh; freezing may alter the sauce texture, but you can freeze components separately.

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Conclusion

Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce is a luxurious yet simple dish that elevates comfort food to a new level. The combination of tender beef, sautéed peppers and onions, soft tortellini, and creamy provolone sauce delivers a meal that is hearty, flavorful, and satisfying. Quick to prepare yet impressive in presentation, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or whenever you want a comforting pasta dish with a rich, cheesy twist. By following these steps and tips, you’ll create a dish that’s indulgent, creamy, and packed with flavor, leaving everyone at the table asking for seconds.