If you love the classic flavors of a cheesesteak sandwich but are also a fan of rich, cheesy pasta dishes, this Cheesesteak Tortellini in Provolone Sauce is a match made in heaven. The bold, savory flavors of beef, onions, peppers, and garlic combined with cheese-stuffed tortellini and smothered in a creamy provolone sauce create an irresistible meal. This dish blends the best of both worlds: the hearty comfort of a cheesesteak and the creamy decadence of a pasta bake. Let’s dive into the recipe and see how to create this mouthwatering dish.
Ingredients (with Quantities)
- 1 lb cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen): The perfect pasta for this dish, with pockets of creamy cheese inside.
- 1 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced: A tender and flavorful cut that sears beautifully.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Used to sauté the beef and vegetables.
- 1 onion, thinly sliced: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor to the dish.
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced: Brings color and a slight crunch to the dish.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds aromatic richness.
- 2 tbsp butter: Forms the base of the creamy provolone sauce.
- 2 tbsp flour: Thickens the sauce for a velvety texture.
- 1 ½ cups milk: The liquid that transforms the roux into a luscious sauce.
- 1 ½ cups shredded provolone cheese: Melts into a smooth, rich sauce.
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce: Adds a tangy, umami depth to the sauce.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning each layer.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a pop of color and freshness at the end.
Directions and Preparation Method
1. Cook the Tortellini
The first step is to prepare the cheese tortellini. If you’re using fresh or frozen tortellini, follow the package instructions, typically boiling in salted water for about 3-5 minutes until tender. Once cooked, drain the tortellini and set them aside. Be sure to toss them with a little olive oil to prevent sticking while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.
2. Cook the Beef
Next, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced beef sirloin and cook for about 4-5 minutes. You want the beef to be browned and slightly crispy around the edges, but still juicy inside. Once cooked, remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. If there are any browned bits left in the skillet, leave them — they’ll add great flavor when you cook the vegetables.
3. Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the sliced onions, green bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté the vegetables over medium heat for 3-4 minutes until the onions become translucent and the peppers are tender but still have a bit of crunch. The garlic will release its fragrance, adding a wonderful aromatic depth. Once the veggies are cooked, remove them from the heat and set aside.
4. Prepare the Provolone Sauce
To make the rich, creamy provolone sauce, start by melting 2 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, stir in the 2 tablespoons of flour to create a roux. Continue cooking the roux for about 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually add 1 ½ cups of milk while whisking to avoid any lumps. Keep stirring until the sauce begins to thicken, about 3-4 minutes. Then, stir in the shredded provolone cheese and the Worcestershire sauce. The cheese will melt, creating a smooth, silky sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then remove the sauce from the heat.
5. Combine and Assemble
Now, it’s time to bring everything together. In the skillet with the sautéed vegetables, add the cooked tortellini and beef. Pour the provolone sauce over the top, gently tossing everything to ensure the tortellini, beef, and vegetables are evenly coated in the creamy sauce. Let it simmer for another minute or two, allowing the flavors to meld together.
6. Garnish and Serve
Once everything is well-combined and heated through, it’s time to plate the dish. Serve the cheesesteak tortellini hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley. This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or garlic bread.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different cut of beef? Yes! While beef sirloin is ideal for its tenderness and flavor, you can substitute it with ribeye, flank steak, or even ground beef. Just be mindful of cooking times, as tougher cuts may need a longer cooking time to tenderize.
2. What other types of cheese can I use for the sauce? Provolone is perfect for this dish because of its creamy texture and mild flavor, but you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, Swiss, or even a sharp cheddar for a different flavor profile.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the components separately — cook the tortellini, sauté the beef and vegetables, and make the sauce — then refrigerate them. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine everything in a skillet and reheat gently over medium-low heat. Just be sure to store each component in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
4. What if I don’t have Worcestershire sauce? If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce on hand, soy sauce or a splash of balsamic vinegar can provide a similar umami flavor. Just be cautious with the amount, as these substitutes can be stronger in taste.
5. Can I add mushrooms to this recipe? Yes! Sautéed mushrooms would be a delicious addition to this dish. Simply cook them with the onions and bell peppers, allowing them to release their moisture and become golden-brown.
6. Is this dish freezer-friendly? While tortellini and beef freeze well, the cheese sauce can change texture after being frozen. If you want to freeze this dish, I recommend freezing the tortellini and beef separately, then making the provolone sauce fresh when you’re ready to serve.
Conclusion
Cheesesteak Tortellini in Provolone Sauce is a dish that brings together the best of both worlds — the savory, comforting flavors of a cheesesteak sandwich combined with the creamy, cheesy richness of pasta. With tender beef, flavorful veggies, and tortellini drenched in a velvety provolone sauce, this recipe is sure to be a hit at your dinner table. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, it’s a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal that’s easy to prepare. Serve it alongside a crisp salad or garlic bread, and you’ll have a hearty, satisfying dish that everyone will love.
Give it a try, and don’t forget to add your personal touch, whether that’s adding extra veggies, using a different cheese, or spicing things up with some hot sauce. Enjoy this delectable fusion of two beloved comfort foods!