Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce

This Cheesesteak Tortellini recipe combines the best of both worlds: the rich, savory flavors of a classic cheesesteak and the comforting texture of cheese-filled tortellini. It’s a hearty, indulgent dish that’s quick to make yet impressive enough for a special meal. The creamy provolone sauce coats the tender beef steak and pasta perfectly, making it a crowd-pleaser for weeknight dinners or gatherings.

Jump to Recipe

Why You’ll Love Cheesesteak Tortellini

This dish is a delicious blend of cheesesteak flavors and pasta comfort. The cheese tortellini soaks up the rich, creamy provolone sauce, while the caramelized onions and Worcestershire-seasoned beef add layers of savory goodness. It’s an easy-to-make dish, taking only 30 minutes, and provides a satisfying, cheesy meal with minimal effort.

Ingredient Breakdown

1. Cheese Tortellini (12 oz package)

Cheese tortellini is the perfect base for this recipe, adding a cheesy and tender element to balance out the hearty beef and rich sauce.

• Tip: Be sure to cook the tortellini just until al dente, following the package instructions, so it holds up well in the creamy sauce.

2. Olive Oil (1 tablespoon)

Used to sauté the onions and beef, olive oil adds a nice richness to the dish and helps create that delicious caramelization.

3. Onion (1 large, sliced)

Caramelized onions bring sweetness and depth of flavor, making this dish feel more like a traditional cheesesteak.

• Tip: Cook the onions slowly over medium heat to allow them to soften and develop a slightly sweet, caramelized flavor.

4. Beef Steak (1 lb, cubed)

The beef adds protein and heartiness to the dish. Opt for a cut like sirloin or ribeye for the best flavor and texture.

• Tip: Make sure to season the beef generously with salt and pepper for maximum flavor.

5. Worcestershire Sauce (2 tablespoons)

This adds a tangy, umami-packed boost of flavor that complements the beef and cheese sauce beautifully.

6. Provolone Cheese (1 cup, shredded)

The star of the sauce, provolone cheese melts down into a rich, creamy sauce that ties all the flavors together.

• Tip: If you want extra cheesiness, garnish the dish with more shredded provolone before serving.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Cheesesteak Tortellini

Step 1: Cook the Cheese Tortellini

Start by cooking the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions. Drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the rest of the dish.

• Tip: Toss the drained tortellini with a little olive oil to prevent it from sticking together.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions soften and caramelize slightly, about 5-7 minutes.

• Tip: Don’t rush this step—cooking the onions until they caramelize adds a rich, sweet flavor to the dish.

Step 3: Cook the Beef

Once the onions are soft and golden, add the cubed beef steak to the skillet. Season the beef with salt and pepper, and cook until it’s browned on all sides and fully cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure the beef cooks evenly.

Step 4: Add Broth and Worcestershire Sauce

Pour in 1 cup of beef broth and 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce, stirring to combine. Let the mixture simmer for about 3-4 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

• Tip: Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet—this adds even more flavor to the sauce.

Step 5: Make the Provolone Sauce

Reduce the heat to low, and sprinkle the shredded provolone cheese over the beef and onion mixture. Stir gently until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little more beef broth to thin it out.

Step 6: Combine Tortellini and Sauce

Gently fold the cooked cheese tortellini into the skillet, making sure to coat the pasta evenly with the provolone sauce. Stir gently to avoid breaking the tortellini.

• Tip: If you want an extra cheesy finish, sprinkle some additional shredded provolone over the top before serving.

Step 7: Serve

Serve your Cheesesteak Tortellini immediately, garnished with more shredded provolone or a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy the rich, comforting flavors!

Serving Suggestions

Here are a few ways to serve this hearty Cheesesteak Tortellini dish:

1. As a Comforting Main Dish

This recipe serves four people and works perfectly as a comforting, filling main dish. Pair it with a simple salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal.

2. With a Fresh Side Salad

Balance out the richness of the dish with a crisp, fresh salad. A Caesar salad or mixed greens with a vinaigrette would complement the creamy sauce beautifully.

3. Wine Pairing

For a perfect pairing, serve this dish with a Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot. The bold, fruity notes in red wine go well with the richness of the provolone sauce and beef.

Customizing Your Cheesesteak Tortellini

This dish is flexible and easy to customize to suit your preferences:

1. Swap the Cheese

If you’re not a fan of provolone, you can substitute it with mozzarella, Parmesan, or even Cheddar for a different flavor profile.

2. Add Vegetables

For a nutritional boost, consider adding sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the onion mixture.

3. Use a Different Pasta

While cheese tortellini adds a nice creamy texture, you can also try this recipe with other pasta types like penne, fettuccine, or gnocchi for variety.

Conclusion

This Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce is a delicious fusion of cheesesteak flavors and creamy pasta comfort. It’s easy to make and offers a hearty, satisfying meal that combines tender beef, caramelized onions, and cheesy tortellini in a rich, provolone-infused sauce. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish that will impress guests, this recipe is a must-try.

Enjoy this cheesy, beefy goodness in just 30 minutes and savor every bite!