Cheesesteak Tortellini is a rich, creamy, and flavorful dish that brings together the savory goodness of classic Philly cheesesteak and the indulgent comfort of cheesy pasta. This fusion recipe uses tender beef, sautéed onions and peppers, a creamy cheese sauce, and tortellini to create a one-pan meal that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or a cozy night in.
Why You’ll Love Cheesesteak Tortellini
Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and just one pan, you’ll have dinner on the table in no time.
Delicious Fusion: Combines the flavors of a classic cheesesteak sandwich with pasta for a unique twist.
Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by kids and adults alike, it’s a meal that’s sure to impress.
Customizable: Easily adaptable to include your favorite veggies, cheese, or protein variations.
Ingredients
This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Base Ingredients
1 pound thinly sliced steak (ribeye or sirloin works well; substitute with ground beef for convenience)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
1 large green bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 large red bell pepper, thinly sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 (20-ounce) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
2 cups beef broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded provolone cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional Add-Ins
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (for heat)
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (for tangy depth)
Toppings
Chopped fresh parsley
Grated Parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Steak
If using thinly sliced steak, cut it into bite-sized strips.
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat.
Add the steak and season with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Cook for 3-4 minutes until browned. Remove the steak from the pan and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil.
Sauté the onions and bell peppers over medium heat until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
3. Build the Sauce
Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, scraping the bottom of the pan to deglaze and capture all the flavorful bits.
Stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
4. Cook the Tortellini
Add the cheese tortellini to the skillet, ensuring they are submerged in the liquid. Cover the pan and let it simmer over medium heat for 8-10 minutes, or until the tortellini are tender and cooked through. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Add the Cheese and Steak
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded provolone and mozzarella cheeses until melted and smooth.
Return the cooked steak to the skillet, mixing it into the cheesy tortellini.
6. Final Adjustments and Serve
Taste and adjust seasonings, adding more salt, pepper, or garlic powder if needed.
Sprinkle with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese for garnish. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Cheesesteak Tortellini
Choose the Right Steak: Use ribeye or sirloin for the best flavor. Thinly slicing the steak ensures it cooks quickly and evenly.
Fresh Tortellini: Use refrigerated cheese tortellini for faster cooking and a fresher taste. Frozen tortellini can be used but may require slightly longer cooking.
Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Check the tortellini frequently and remove the dish from heat as soon as it’s tender.
Shred Your Own Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains additives that can affect how well it melts. Shredding your own cheese ensures a smoother sauce.
Deglaze the Pan: Scraping up the browned bits while adding the broth enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
Variations
Cheesesteak Tortellini is a versatile recipe that can be adapted to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
1. Protein Options
Use ground beef for a quicker, budget-friendly option.
Substitute steak with chicken or turkey for a leaner version.
Add crumbled sausage or plant-based protein for a twist.
2. Veggie Additions
Stir in mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for added nutrients.
Use roasted peppers for a smoky flavor.
3. Cheese Swaps
Replace provolone with American cheese for a more traditional cheesesteak taste.
Add cream cheese for extra creaminess.
Use pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick.
4. Gluten-Free Option
Substitute the tortellini with gluten-free pasta and check that all other ingredients, like Worcestershire sauce, are gluten-free.
Serving Suggestions
Cheesesteak Tortellini is hearty and satisfying on its own, but you can pair it with these sides to round out the meal:
Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy cheese sauce.
Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.
Steamed Vegetables: Serve with broccoli, green beans, or asparagus for a healthy addition.
Storage and Reheating
Storing Leftovers
Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
For longer storage, freeze individual portions for up to 2 months.
Reheating
Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce. Stir frequently.
Microwave: Heat individual portions on medium power, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
Nutritional Benefits
Protein-Packed: Steak and cheese provide a good source of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
Calcium-Rich: The cheese and cream contribute a healthy dose of calcium.
Customizable Add-Ins: Adding veggies like bell peppers and spinach boosts fiber and micronutrient content.
Cheesesteak Tortellini Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 package 12 oz cheese tortellini
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion sliced
- 1 pound beef steak cubed
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup shredded provolone cheese
Instructions
- Cook Tortellini: Cook the cheese tortellini according to package directions. Once cooked, drain and set aside while preparing the rest of the dish.
- Sauté Onions: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté until tender and caramelized, adding a sweet and savory flavor to the dish.
- Brown Beef Steak: Increase the heat to medium-high and add the cubed beef steak to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper, and cook until the beef is browned and cooked to your desired level of doneness.
- Add Broth and Worcestershire Sauce: Stir in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Allow it to cook for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and create a rich and savory sauce.
- Combine Tortellini and Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and add the cooked tortellini to the skillet, tossing it with the beef and onion mixture to coat evenly. This allows the tortellini to soak up the delicious flavors of the sauce.
- Top with Provolone Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded provolone cheese over the top of the tortellini mixture, covering it evenly. Cover the skillet and allow the cheese to melt, creating a creamy and indulgent sauce that binds the dish together.
- Serve Hot: Once the cheese has melted and the dish is heated through, serve the Cheesesteak Tortellini hot, garnished with additional cheese if desired. The creamy richness of the provolone sauce combined with the tender beef and savory tortellini is sure to delight your taste buds with every bite.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the dish up to the point of adding the cheese. Refrigerate, then reheat on the stovetop, stirring in the cheese until melted and creamy.
2. Can I use frozen tortellini?
Absolutely. Just adjust the cooking time and ensure the pasta is fully cooked before adding the cheese.
3. What’s the best way to slice steak thinly?
Partially freeze the steak for 20-30 minutes before slicing. This makes it easier to cut thin, even strips.
Conclusion
Cheesesteak Tortellini is a delightful twist on classic comfort food, combining the bold flavors of a Philly cheesesteak with the creamy indulgence of tortellini pasta. It’s easy to prepare, endlessly customizable, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for family gatherings, this recipe delivers big on flavor and convenience. Give it a try and enjoy the ultimate comfort food mashup!