Cheesesteak Tortellini In Rich Provolone Sauce Recipe

There's nothing quite like the marriage of hearty comfort food and rich, indulgent flavors. Enter Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce, a dish that brings together the classic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak with the creamy decadence of pasta. Imagine tender tortellini wrapped in a velvety provolone sauce, mingling with savory slices of beef and sweet caramelized onions—a perfect weeknight meal or an impressive dish for guests.

This recipe was born out of my love for cheesesteaks and a desire to create a pasta dish that captures those bold flavors. Now it’s a favorite in my house, and I'm confident it will be in yours too. Let’s dive in!

Why You'll Love This Cheesesteak Tortellini

Prepare to be obsessed with this fusion of two comfort food classics. Here’s why this dish deserves a spot on your dinner table:

First off, it’s quick and easy to make. With a prep time of just 10 minutes and a cook time under 30 minutes, you’ll have a satisfying meal on the table faster than ordering takeout.

The flavors are incredible. Savory beef, sweet caramelized onions, and a silky provolone cheese sauce create a perfect harmony of richness and balance.

It’s a one-pan wonder! Apart from boiling the tortellini, everything cooks in one skillet, meaning minimal cleanup—a huge win on busy nights.

Finally, it’s endlessly adaptable. Whether you prefer chicken over beef, want to add mushrooms, or go heavy on the cheese, this recipe welcomes your creative twists.

Ready to transform your weeknight dinners? Let’s start with the ingredients.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Cheesesteak Tortellini lies in its carefully selected, simple ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in achieving that signature flavor.

• Tortellini: Use cheese-stuffed tortellini for a rich and indulgent base. Fresh or refrigerated tortellini cooks quickly and holds up beautifully in the sauce.
• Sliced Beef: Thinly sliced ribeye or skirt steak works best. You can also use pre-sliced steak for cheesesteaks, which saves time.
• Provolone Cheese: The star of the sauce! Use a blend of shredded provolone and provolone cheese slices for creaminess and that iconic sharp flavor.
• Onions: Sweet onions are best for caramelizing, adding a delicate sweetness to balance the savory elements.
• Beef Broth: This adds depth to the sauce while thinning it to the perfect consistency.
• Heavy Cream: Creates a luxuriously creamy base for the provolone to melt into.
• Butter and Olive Oil: A combination of butter and olive oil ensures perfect caramelization and adds richness to the dish.

If you have a cast-iron skillet or a large nonstick pan, you’re all set for this recipe. Let’s move on to the fun part—cooking!

How To Make Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce

Creating this mouthwatering dish is simple, with most steps taking just minutes. Follow along for a foolproof process:

Step 1: Cook the Tortellini
Start by boiling a pot of salted water and cooking the tortellini according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside, but save about 1 cup of the pasta water for later.

Step 2: Sauté the Beef
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with a drizzle of olive oil. Add the sliced beef in batches to avoid overcrowding, seasoning lightly with salt and pepper. Cook until the edges are browned, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Caramelize the Onions
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add a tablespoon of butter. Toss in the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they’re golden and caramelized, about 10-12 minutes.

Step 4: Make the Provolone Sauce
Push the onions to one side of the pan and pour in the heavy cream and beef broth. Let it heat gently before stirring in the shredded provolone cheese. Whisk until the cheese is fully melted, creating a smooth, creamy sauce. Add a splash of pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.

Step 5: Combine Everything
Add the cooked tortellini and beef back into the skillet. Toss everything gently to coat the tortellini and beef in the provolone sauce. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld together.

Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of Parmesan if desired.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (lucky you!), here’s how to store them:

• Refrigerator: Store the tortellini in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. However, note that the cream sauce may separate slightly when reheated.

To reheat, warm the dish over low heat in a skillet, stirring frequently. Add a splash of milk or broth to restore the creamy consistency.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best parts of this recipe is how easily it can adapt to your preferences. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Swap the Protein: Use thinly sliced chicken breast, ground beef, or even mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.
• Extra Veggies: Add bell peppers, spinach, or sautéed mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Different Cheese: If provolone isn’t your favorite, try mozzarella, Gruyère, or a blend of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack.
• Low-Carb Option: Replace the tortellini with zucchini noodles or cauliflower gnocchi for a lighter version.

The possibilities are endless—don’t be afraid to make this dish your own!

Final Thoughts

Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce combines the best of comfort food and indulgence into one irresistible dish. Whether you’re cooking for your family or looking to impress dinner guests, this recipe checks all the boxes. So grab your skillet, your favorite tortellini, and get ready to savor every bite!

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