Gooey Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce Recipe

The Best Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce Recipe

Comfort meets innovation in this mouthwatering cheesesteak tortellini that reimagines classic Philly sandwich flavors.

Pasta lovers will adore how perfectly seasoned beef mingles with cheese-filled pillows.

Melted provolone creates a luxurious blanket embracing each tender tortellini.

Bold spices dance through the creamy sauce, promising a culinary adventure.

We break traditional recipe boundaries by blending two beloved cuisines into one spectacular dish.

Hearty and indulgent, this meal satisfies deep hunger with minimal kitchen effort.

Prepare to experience a flavor explosion that will become your new dinner obsession.

Cheesesteak Tortellini with Provolone Sauce Must-Knows

  • Dive into a hassle-free cooking experience with simple steps that even novice home cooks can master effortlessly.
  • Savor the perfect marriage of classic cheesesteak ingredients and creamy tortellini, creating a mouthwatering fusion that satisfies serious comfort food cravings.
  • Wow dinner guests or family members with a dish that appeals to both pasta lovers and cheesesteak enthusiasts, making it ideal for casual gatherings or weeknight dinners.
  • Minimize kitchen cleanup with a recipe that requires minimal dishes and maximizes flavor, letting you spend less time washing and more time enjoying your delicious meal.

Ingredients for Cheesesteak Tortellini with Provolone Sauce

Protein Base:
  • Beef: A flavorful and tender meat that forms the core of the cheesesteak filling.
  • Cheese Tortellini: Pasta pockets filled with creamy cheese that provide a delicious base for the dish.
Vegetable Additions:
  • Onion, Green Bell Pepper: Fresh vegetables that add sweetness and texture to the cheesesteak filling.
  • Garlic: A fragrant ingredient that enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.
Sauce and Seasoning Components:
  • Provolone Cheese, Parmesan Cheese: Rich and melty cheeses that create a creamy and luxurious sauce.
  • Butter, Flour, Milk: Classic sauce base ingredients that help create a smooth and thick provolone sauce.
  • Salt, Pepper, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder: Seasonings that provide depth and balance to the dish's flavor.
  • Olive Oil: A cooking oil used to sauté the beef and vegetables.

How to Make Cheesesteak Tortellini with Provolone Sauce

Step 1: Sizzle the Beef and Veggies

Brown the sliced beef in a large skillet with olive oil over medium-high heat until it develops a rich golden color.

Remove the beef and set it aside.

In the same skillet, cook the onions and green bell peppers until they become soft and slightly caramelized.

Add minced garlic and cook for an extra minute to release its aromatic flavors.

Return the beef to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and mix everything together creating a delicious cheesesteak base.

Step 2: Craft the Creamy Provolone Sauce

Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.

Sprinkle in flour and whisk continuously until the mixture becomes bubbly and turns a light golden shade.

Slowly pour in milk while stirring to prevent lumps from forming.

Continue cooking until the sauce starts to thicken.

Blend in the provolone and Parmesan cheeses, stirring until they completely melt and create a smooth, velvety sauce.

Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to enhance the flavor profile.

Step 3: Cook the Tortellini

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.

Drop in the cheese tortellini and cook according to package directions until they reach a perfect al dente texture.

Carefully drain the tortellini and set them aside.

Step 4: Assemble the Delightful Dish

In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the cooked tortellini with the savory cheesesteak filling and rich provolone sauce.

Ensure every piece of tortellini is generously coated with the flavorful mixture.

Transfer to serving plates and sprinkle with additional grated Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of indulgence.

Pro Tips for Cheesesteak Tortellini with Provolone Sauce

  • Cut beef against the grain for maximum tenderness and easier chewing, ensuring each bite remains juicy and delicious.
  • Whisk milk slowly into roux to prevent lumps, creating a silky smooth sauce that coats tortellini perfectly without becoming too thick or thin.
  • Cook onions and peppers until just softened but still slightly crisp, preserving their natural sweetness and preventing them from becoming mushy.
  • Reserve a small amount of pasta water before draining, which can help adjust sauce consistency if needed and add extra richness to the dish.
  • Taste and adjust salt and pepper gradually, remembering that provolone and Parmesan cheeses already contribute significant saltiness to the overall flavor profile.

Storage Tips for Cheesesteak Tortellini with Provolone Sauce

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keeps fresh in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
  • Transfer tortellini to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Remove excess air, seal tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Label with the date to track freshness.
  • Place portion in a microwave-safe dish. Cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying. Heat on medium power in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until thoroughly warmed.
  • Pour tortellini into a skillet with a splash of milk or broth. Warm over medium-low heat, stirring gently to prevent sticking and maintain sauce consistency. Heat until steaming hot throughout.

Best Pairings for Cheesesteak Tortellini with Provolone Sauce

  • Pair Perfectly with Robust Red Wines: Select a bold Cabernet Sauvignon or Zinfandel to complement the rich, meaty flavors of the cheesesteak tortellini. These wines cut through the creamy provolone sauce and enhance the robust beef profile.
  • Create a Crisp Side Salad: Toss a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to balance the heavy, cheesy pasta. The peppery greens and tangy dressing will refresh the palate between rich bites.
  • Serve with Craft Beer Selections: Choose a hoppy IPA or amber ale that matches the bold cheese and beef notes. These beer styles provide a complementary maltiness that stands up to the intense flavor combinations in the dish.
  • Add Roasted Vegetable Medley: Prepare a quick side of roasted brussels sprouts and carrots with garlic and olive oil. The caramelized vegetables add a subtle sweetness and nutritional balance to the decadent pasta.

Cheesesteak Tortellini Twists to Try

  • Gluten-Free Comfort: Replace wheat tortellini with gluten-free cheese tortellini and use cornstarch instead of flour for the sauce to create a celiac-friendly version.
  • Vegetarian Delight: Swap beef with sautéed portobello mushrooms or plant-based steak strips, maintaining the same cooking technique for a meat-free alternative.
  • Low-Carb Option: Substitute tortellini with zucchini noodles or cauliflower gnocchi, keeping the rich provolone sauce and cheesesteak-style vegetables for a lighter meal.
  • Dairy-Free Adaptation: Use dairy-free cheese alternatives and plant-based milk to create a creamy sauce, ensuring those with lactose intolerance can enjoy a similar flavor profile.

FAQs

  • What makes the provolone sauce creamy and rich?

The sauce uses a roux method with butter and flour, then gradually whisks in milk and melts provolone and Parmesan cheeses, creating a smooth and velvety texture that coats the tortellini perfectly.

  • Can I use a different type of meat for the cheesesteak filling?

While beef is traditional, you can substitute with thinly sliced chicken or pork for a different protein variation. Just ensure the meat is cooked to the proper temperature and seasoned well.

  • How do I prevent the cheese sauce from becoming lumpy?

Whisk the milk into the roux gradually and continuously, stirring constantly to prevent clumping. Also, make sure to melt the cheeses on low heat while stirring to maintain a smooth consistency.

  • Is this dish considered a fusion recipe?

Yes, this recipe combines the classic Philadelphia cheesesteak flavors with Italian tortellini, creating a unique cross-cultural dish that blends traditional ingredients from two different culinary traditions.

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Gooey Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce Recipe

Gooey Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce Recipe


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4.5 from 15 reviews

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Philly-inspired cheesesteak tortellini dazzles with luxurious provolone sauce, blending classic sandwich flavors into a comforting pasta dream. Hearty ingredients and creamy textures merge, inviting you to savor each indulgent bite of this irresistible Italian-American fusion.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein:

  • 1 pound (450 grams) thinly sliced beef (such as ribeye or sirloin)

Vegetables:

  • 1 large onion, sliced
  • 1 large green bell pepper, sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Dairy and Cheese:

  • 1 cup grated provolone cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 1/2 cups milk
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Seasonings:

  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder

Pasta:

  • 12 ounces (340 grams) cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)

Cooking Fat:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Thickener:

  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

Instructions

  1. Transform the beef into a flavorful base by searing slices in a sizzling skillet over medium-high heat until golden brown, approximately 3-4 minutes per side. Transfer the meat to a separate plate.
  2. Utilize the same skillet to sauté onions and green bell peppers until they become translucent and tender, roughly 5-6 minutes. Introduce minced garlic and cook for an additional 60 seconds to release aromatic flavors.
  3. Reunite the previously seared beef with the vegetable mixture, seasoning generously with salt and pepper. Thoroughly integrate all components and set aside.
  4. Craft the luxurious provolone sauce by melting butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Incorporate flour and cook until the mixture turns light golden and develops a bubbly texture, about 1-2 minutes.
  5. Gradually introduce milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps and encourage smooth thickening of the sauce.
  6. Fold in provolone and Parmesan cheeses, stirring persistently until completely melted and the sauce achieves a silky consistency. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  7. Prepare tortellini in a large pot of salted boiling water, following package instructions until achieving perfect al dente texture. Drain carefully.
  8. Combine the tortellini with the prepared cheesesteak filling and velvety provolone sauce in a spacious mixing bowl, ensuring thorough and even coating.
  9. Present immediately, optionally garnishing with an additional sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for enhanced flavor and visual appeal.

Notes

  • Meat Selection Matters: Choose high-quality, thinly sliced beef like sirloin or ribeye for the most tender and flavorful cheesesteak filling.
  • Cheese Sauce Consistency: Whisk the sauce continuously to prevent lumps and achieve a smooth, creamy texture that coats the tortellini perfectly.
  • Vegetarian Twist: Swap beef with grilled portobello mushrooms or plant-based steak strips for a delicious meat-free alternative that maintains the rich flavor profile.
  • Quick Cooking Tip: Cook beef just until browned to keep it juicy and prevent toughening, which ensures a melt-in-your-mouth texture in the final dish.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 570
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 850mg
  • Fat: 28g
  • Saturated Fat: 14g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 52g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 34g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg
Clara Thompson

Clara Thompson

Recipe Developer & Culinary Educator

Expertise

Developing accessible single-serving recipes, Food writing and content creation, Plant-based and allergen-friendly cooking, Culinary education and workshop facilitation

Education

​Oregon Culinary Institute (Portland, OR)
Diploma in Culinary Arts

Specialized in plant-based cooking and sustainable kitchen practices.​

Portland Community College
Certificate in Food Writing and Media

Focused on recipe writing, food photography, and digital content creation.​


Clara’s food journey began with a curiosity for color, texture, and ingredients pulled straight from the garden. Her background in plant-forward cooking and creative writing gives her a unique edge – she makes healthy, flavorful food feel inviting, not intimidating.
She specializes in meals that work for busy lives and different diets, all without sacrificing taste. Clara’s voice comes through in every recipe she writes – clear, kind, and encouraging.

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