
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bold Cheesesteak Flavors : Savory beef, sweet peppers, and gooey provolone bring the essence of a Philly cheesesteak to your pasta.
- Creamy & Comforting : The rich provolone sauce wraps every piece of tortellini in velvety goodness.
- Quick & Easy : Ready in under 30 minutes with simple pantry staples and fresh ingredients.
- Impressive Presentation : Looks and tastes like it came from a gourmet restaurant.
- Kid-Friendly : Even picky eaters will devour this meaty, cheesy masterpiece.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Serves 6–8
For the Dish:
- 1 lb ground beef (or thinly sliced steak strips for a more authentic cheesesteak)
- 1 medium onion , thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper , thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic , minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 package (19 oz) cheese-filled tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded provolone cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper , to taste
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Crushed red pepper flakes
- Extra shredded provolone
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Beef and Veggies
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and red bell pepper, and sauté for 5–7 minutes , until softened and slightly caramelized.
- Push the veggies to one side of the pan and add the ground beef (or steak strips). Cook until browned and no longer pink, breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute , until fragrant.
Step 2: Cook the Tortellini
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Provolone Sauce
- In the same skillet with the beef and veggies, reduce the heat to low. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine.
- Gradually add the shredded provolone and grated Parmesan cheeses, stirring constantly until melted and smooth.
- Season the sauce with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Combine Everything
- Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet with the beef and sauce. Toss gently to coat the tortellini evenly in the creamy provolone sauce.
- If the sauce is too thick, thin it out with a splash of reserved pasta water or additional cream.
Step 5: Serve
- Garnish with fresh parsley, crushed red pepper flakes, or extra shredded provolone if desired.
- Serve hot and watch your guests be blown away!
Why This Recipe Works
- Provolone Magic : The rich, nutty flavor of provolone melts beautifully into a creamy sauce that complements the beef and tortellini.
- Tortellini Twist : Cheese-filled tortellini adds an extra layer of indulgence to this already decadent dish.
- Classic Cheesesteak Vibes : The combination of beef, peppers, and onions captures the essence of a Philly cheesesteak in pasta form.
Variations to Try
- Add Mushrooms : Sauté sliced mushrooms with the onions and peppers for extra umami flavor.
- Spice It Up : Stir in diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Gluten-Free Option : Use gluten-free tortellini and ensure your broth is GF-friendly.
- Vegan Version : Substitute plant-based beef, dairy-free cream, and vegan cheese for a plant-based twist.
- Extra Cheesy : Top with a mix of mozzarella and provolone before broiling for a bubbly, golden crust.
Tips for Success
- Don’t Overcook the Tortellini : Follow the package instructions carefully to avoid mushy pasta.
- Low Heat for Melting Cheese : Keep the heat low when adding the provolone to prevent the sauce from breaking.
- Storage : Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
- Romantic Touch : Garnish with microgreens or edible flowers for elegance.
- Brunch Staple : Pair with garlic bread, a side salad, or roasted veggies for a complete meal.
- Party Platter : Serve alongside other comfort foods like sliders, nachos, or baked potatoes for variety.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce is a celebration of bold, savory flavors and creamy textures, offering a dish that feels indulgent yet approachable. With its quick prep time, customizable options, and endless charm, it’s a recipe that’s sure to impress whether you’re cooking for a special occasion, a casual snack, or simply craving something satisfying.
Your Turn! Have you ever combined pasta with cheesesteak-inspired flavors? Share your favorite variations or serving ideas below. π§ζ°