Cheesesteak Tortellini in Creamy Provolone Sauce

If you love cheesesteaks and creamy pasta, this recipe is a match made in heaven. The Cheesesteak Tortellini in Creamy Provolone Sauce takes tender cheese tortellini and pairs it with savory, seasoned beef, sautéed onions and peppers, all coated in a rich provolone cheese sauce infused with Italian seasoning.

This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, casual family meals, or an impressive comfort-food twist when entertaining guests. It’s indulgent yet approachable, offering restaurant-quality flavors without the restaurant effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Gourmet Comfort Food: Cheesesteak flavors meet cheesy pasta perfection.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 45 minutes from start to finish.
• Creamy Provolone Sauce: Smooth, rich, and perfectly cheesy.
• Customizable Protein: Ribeye or sirloin works beautifully, or swap for chicken or turkey.
• Kid-Friendly: Mildly seasoned but packed with flavor.
• One-Skillet Cleanup: Combines filling, pasta, and sauce efficiently.

Ingredients Breakdown

This recipe yields 4–6 servings and uses straightforward ingredients. Exact measurements are included to ensure perfect results.

Tortellini

• 1 lb cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Cheesesteak Filling

• 1 lb thinly sliced beef steak (ribeye or sirloin works well)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Provolone Sauce

• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup shredded provolone cheese
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Tools & Equipment Needed

To make this dish with ease, you’ll need:

• Large pot for boiling tortellini
• Colander to drain pasta
• Large skillet for cheesesteak filling
• Medium saucepan for provolone sauce
• Whisk for smooth sauce
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Tortellini

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add cheese tortellini and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain and toss with 1 tablespoon olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheesesteak Filling

1. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced beef, onions, and green bell peppers.
3. Sprinkle with 1 tsp Italian seasoning and cook, stirring frequently, until the beef is browned and vegetables are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then set aside.

Step 3: Make the Provolone Sauce

1. In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat.
2. Whisk in 2 tbsp all-purpose flour to form a smooth roux.
3. Gradually pour in 2 cups milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
4. Cook until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Lower the heat and stir in 1 cup shredded provolone cheese and 1 tsp Italian seasoning.
6. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

1. In the skillet with the cheesesteak filling, add cooked tortellini and provolone sauce.
2. Gently toss to coat the tortellini and filling evenly with sauce.
3. Warm everything through over low heat.
4. Serve immediately, optionally garnished with extra shredded provolone and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning.

Tips & Variations

• Protein Options: Use chicken, turkey, or even a plant-based protein instead of beef.
• Vegetable Upgrades: Add mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for extra nutrients.
• Cheese Alternatives: Try a mix of provolone and mozzarella for an even creamier texture.
• Spice Level: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a subtle kick.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the beef filling and sauce in advance; reheat and combine with freshly cooked tortellini.

Flavor Profile & Pairings

Taste & Texture:

• Creamy, cheesy, and indulgent from provolone sauce.
• Savory, tender beef with caramelized onions and peppers.
• Tender, pillowy tortellini soaks up every bit of sauce.

Suggested Sides:

• Simple green salad with vinaigrette for balance.
• Garlic bread or focaccia to scoop up the creamy sauce.
• Steamed or roasted vegetables for extra fiber.

Nutritional Overview (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	520 kcal
Fat	28 g
Saturated Fat	15 g
Carbohydrates	38 g
Sugar	4 g
Protein	28 g
Sodium	680 mg
Fiber	2 g

Dietary Notes: Vegetarian version possible using plant-based protein; gluten-free tortellini can be substituted.

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

• Tortellini Prep: Cook tortellini in advance, toss with olive oil, and store in an airtight container.
• Cheesesteak Filling: Prepare the beef and vegetables a day ahead; refrigerate and reheat gently.
• Provolone Sauce: Make in advance and reheat over low heat, whisking to restore smoothness.
• Freezing: Freeze the filling and sauce separately; cook tortellini fresh before combining.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes, cook directly from frozen according to package directions and follow the same steps.

2. Can this be made vegetarian?
Replace the beef with sautéed mushrooms, tempeh, or a plant-based beef substitute.

3. How can I make the sauce extra creamy?
Add an extra ¼ cup milk or ¼ cup heavy cream when melting the provolone cheese.

4. Can I store leftovers?
Yes, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on low heat.

5. Can this be made ahead for a party?
Yes! Prepare the beef and vegetables and the cheese sauce ahead of time; toss with freshly cooked tortellini just before serving.

Cooking Timeline (At a Glance)

Step	Time
Prep Ingredients	15 min
Cook Tortellini	10 min
Cook Cheesesteak Filling	10–12 min
Make Provolone Sauce	10 min
Combine & Serve	3 min
Total	45 min

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a light sprinkle of extra Italian seasoning or freshly cracked black pepper.
• Garnish with shredded provolone or fresh parsley.
• Pair with garlic bread or a crisp salad for a complete meal.

Recipe Variations

1. Spicy Cheesesteak Tortellini: Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce for heat.
2. Vegetable-Packed: Include mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.
3. Cheese Lovers: Mix provolone with mozzarella or Fontina for an extra creamy sauce.
4. One-Pan Version: Skip the separate sauce pan and melt cheese directly into the skillet with the beef and tortellini for a faster version.

Ingredient Spotlight

Provolone Cheese:

• Mild, slightly smoky, and creamy, it melts beautifully into sauces.
• Tip: Use freshly shredded cheese for smoother texture. Pre-shredded often contains anti-caking agents that can affect melt quality.

Italian Seasoning:

• A versatile blend of herbs including oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary.
• Enhances both the filling and sauce for authentic Italian flavor.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Beef Searing: Avoid overcrowding the skillet to ensure the beef browns rather than steams.
• Cheese Sauce: Whisk constantly to avoid lumps; lower heat before adding cheese.
• Tortellini: Toss with olive oil after cooking to prevent sticking before combining with sauce.
• Garnish: Fresh herbs and extra shredded provolone add a professional touch.

Storage & Freezing Guide

• Refrigerate: Store cooked tortellini, filling, and sauce in airtight containers separately for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Keep beef filling and provolone sauce separately in freezer-safe containers for up to 1 month.
• Reheat: Warm sauce over low heat and gently toss with reheated tortellini to maintain creamy consistency.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Serving)

Calories	Protein	Carbs	Fat	Fiber
520 kcal	28 g	38 g	28 g	2 g

Dietary Notes: Vegetarian variation possible; can use gluten-free tortellini for a gluten-free option.

Expanded Conclusion

This Cheesesteak Tortellini in Creamy Provolone Sauce is an elevated comfort food classic. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with tender beef and veggies, making it a versatile dish perfect for family dinners, casual get-togethers, or special occasions.

From quick prep to indulgent finish, this recipe balances rich flavors, hearty textures, and vibrant vegetables. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that combines the best of Italian-inspired pasta and classic cheesesteak flavors in every bite.

Give it a try, serve it warm, and watch it become a go-to comfort food favorite in your kitchen.

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