Cheesesteak Tortellini with Savory Provolone Sauce: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe

Cheesesteak Tortellini with Savory Provolone Sauce brings the classic Philly cheesesteak flavors to a creamy, comforting pasta dish. Tender beef, sautéed onions and peppers, and cheese-filled tortellini are all coated in a rich provolone sauce that’s smooth, savory, and irresistible. It’s a hearty, restaurant-quality meal you can make at home in under 40 minutes.

This recipe is the ultimate fusion of comfort food meets Italian indulgence perfect for weeknights or cozy weekends when you want something extra special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Cheesy & Savory – Silky provolone sauce coats every bite of tortellini.
• Comfort Food Upgrade – Inspired by Philly cheesesteak, elevated with pasta.
• Quick Gourmet Dinner – Ready in less than 40 minutes.
• Crowd Favorite – Kids and adults both love it.
• Customizable – Add mushrooms or hot peppers for your own twist.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients

For the Tortellini:

• 1 (20 oz) package cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
• Salt, for boiling water

For the Cheesesteak Mixture:

• 1 lb thinly sliced beef sirloin or shaved steak
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, thinly sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Savory Provolone Sauce:

• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1½ cups whole milk
• 1 cup shredded provolone cheese
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella (optional, for extra creaminess)
• ½ tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook Tortellini: Boil according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
2. Sauté the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet. Add sliced beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned. Remove and set aside.
3. Cook Veggies: In the same pan, add onion, peppers, and garlic. Sauté until softened and slightly caramelized.
4. Make the Sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually add milk while whisking until smooth. Stir in provolone and mozzarella until melted and creamy. Add Dijon, salt, and pepper.
5. Combine Everything: Add beef, veggies, and tortellini to the pan. Pour sauce over top and toss until evenly coated.
6. Serve Hot: Garnish with extra cheese or chopped parsley.

How to Serve

Plating Tips: Serve in deep pasta bowls and top with a sprinkle of fresh provolone or parmesan.
Side Pairings: Perfect with garlic bread or a crisp Caesar salad.
Leftover Uses: Stuff into baked peppers or turn into a cheesy pasta bake.
Beverage Pairing: Great with iced tea, light red wine, or sparkling water with lemon.

Additional Tips

• Don’t overcook the tortellini, it continues to cook when mixed with the sauce.
• Add sautéed mushrooms for a deeper umami flavor.
• For extra richness, stir in a splash of heavy cream.

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or jalapeños.
• Creamy Alfredo Fusion: Replace provolone with Alfredo sauce base.
• Vegetarian Version: Skip beef and use sautéed mushrooms and spinach.
• Cheesier Version: Stir in cream cheese for a thicker, ultra-creamy sauce.

Storage & Freezing

• Refrigerate: Up to 4 days in an airtight container.
• Freeze: Up to 2 months (sauce may thicken slightly after reheating).
• Reheat: Gently on the stove with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

Special Equipment

• Large skillet
• Saucepan
• Pasta pot
• Whisk

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes, just cook according to package directions before mixing.

Can I use provolone slices instead of shredded?
Yes, tear into small pieces to help it melt evenly.

What cut of beef works best?
Thinly sliced sirloin, ribeye, or shaved steak for authentic cheesesteak flavor.

Can I make this ahead?
Yes! Prepare the components separately, then reheat and mix before serving.

Conclusion

Cheesesteak Tortellini with Savory Provolone Sauce is the definition of cheesy comfort food done right. Every bite combines tender beef, melty cheese, and perfectly cooked tortellini in a luscious sauce that feels indulgent yet easy enough for a weeknight.

Print