Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce Recipe

If you’re searching for the ultimate fusion of classic Philly comfort and Italian indulgence, Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce is the dish you need to make. Picture tender cheese-filled tortellini mingling with juicy slices of steak, sweet sautéed onions and peppers, all drenched in a silky, gooey provolone sauce. It’s a dinner that delivers on flavor, nostalgia, and a little bit of pizzazz—guaranteed to win over friends and family alike!

Ingredients You’ll Need

With just a handful of familiar, easy-to-find ingredients, this recipe captures all the magic of a cheesesteak and turns it into a weeknight favorite. Every ingredient brings its own charm to the dish—whether it’s a boost of creamy, cheesy goodness, a pop of color, or that signature steakhouse sizzle.

• Cheese tortellini: Fresh or frozen tortellini are best for a satisfying, cheesy bite in every forkful.
• Thinly sliced steak (sirloin or ribeye): Treat yourself to top-quality steak for juicy, tender pieces that echo the classic Philly sandwich.
• Olive oil: A drizzle helps brown the steak beautifully and brings richness to the sautéed veggies.
• Onion, sliced: Sweet, caramelized onions deepen the savoriness and nod to the original cheesesteak’s roots.
• Green pepper, sliced: Adds fresh crunch and a colorful, sweet earthiness to every bite.
• Red pepper, sliced: For an extra pop of color and a subtle, sweet flavor contrast.
• Garlic cloves, minced: Just two cloves turn the flavor all the way up and marry the steak and sauce together.
• Butter: Essential for making the roux, which thickens the lush provolone sauce.
• Flour: Two tablespoons is all it takes to help the sauce coat the tortellini just right.
• Milk: Forms the creamy base of the signature provolone sauce—go for whole milk if you want extra decadence.
• Shredded provolone cheese: Melts into a dreamy, flavor-packed sauce that ties the whole dish together.
• Salt & pepper: Season to taste and let the main flavors shine.
• Fresh parsley: A quick sprinkle brightens everything up and makes your plate look extra inviting.

How to Make Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce

Step 1: Cook the Tortellini

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your cheese tortellini according to the package instructions. They only need a few minutes—just enough to become pillowy and tender. Drain them well and set aside, tossing them with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Brown the Steak

Add the olive oil to a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add those paper-thin slices of steak. Sear for about 1 to 2 minutes on each side, just until browned and barely cooked through. Scoop the steak out and set it aside—this keeps it tender and ready to soak up the sauce later.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pan, toss in your sliced onions, green pepper, red pepper, and minced garlic. Cook, stirring now and then, until the veggies are softened and the onions are starting to caramelize. This should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove the veggie mixture from the skillet and set aside with the steak.

Step 4: Make the Rich Provolone Sauce

Lower the heat to medium and melt the butter right in the same skillet—don’t rinse it, those steak and veggie bits are pure flavor! Sprinkle in the flour, whisking continuously, and let it cook for a minute to lose the raw flour taste. Slowly pour in the milk, whisking all the while to prevent lumps. After a couple of minutes, when the sauce is thickening, stir in the shredded provolone cheese until the sauce is silky, glossy, and utterly irresistible.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Now’s the time to return the steak, peppers, onions, and tortellini to the pan. Gently toss everything together so each piece gets blanketed in the rich provolone sauce. Cook for just a minute or two to warm it all through—and bask in those incredible aromas!

How to Serve Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce

Garnishes

For a fresh pop that punctuates the dish’s richness, a sprinkle of chopped parsley on top does wonders. If you’re feeling bold, a dusting of extra provolone or a few toasted breadcrumbs adds an irresistible finish.

Side Dishes

Keep the sides simple and let your Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce shine: think a crisp green salad, some roasted broccoli, or even a toasty slice of garlic bread to swipe through any extra sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the tortellini straight from a skillet for that cozy, rustic feel, or spoon it into individual ramekins under the broiler for a bubbly golden crust. You can even turn it into a crowd-pleasing bake with an extra sprinkle of provolone on top.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers (lucky you!), just pop them into an airtight container and refrigerate. Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce will keep for up to 3 days and tends to taste even more decadent after sitting for a night in the fridge.

Freezing

For longer storage, this dish freezes beautifully. Spoon cooled tortellini and sauce into a freezer-safe container, leaving a little room at the top, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw gently in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Gently reheat leftovers in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk if the sauce thickened in the fridge. You can also warm individual portions in the microwave—just pause to stir halfway through so everything heats evenly.

FAQs

Can I use another type of cheese in the sauce?

While provolone gives this recipe its signature cheesesteak flair, feel free to mix in some mozzarella or fontina for extra gooeyness—or experiment with sharp cheddar for a tangier twist.

What kind of steak works best?

Thinly sliced sirloin or ribeye is classic, but you can use shaved beef from the butcher or even thin-cut chicken if you want a lighter version.

Can I use frozen tortellini?

Absolutely! Frozen tortellini works just as well as fresh—just cook according to the package directions and drain well before adding to the sauce.

Is Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce spicy?

Nope, this dish is all about creamy, cheesy comfort. If you’re craving a little heat, toss in some sliced hot peppers or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.

Can I make Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce ahead?

You can make the components a day in advance and assemble just before serving. The sauce can be reheated gently, and everything comes together in mere minutes when you’re ready to eat.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready to wow your loved ones and treat yourself to something truly satisfying, make Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce the next star of your dinner table. The flavors are irresistible, it’s pure comfort in a bowl, and it’s the kind of meal you’ll dream about long after the last bite. Give it a go—you won’t regret it!

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