How to Make Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce
This dish comes together quickly with just a few easy steps. Follow along to create a delicious and creamy pasta that will impress everyone at the table.
Step 1: Cook the Tortellini
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the tortellini according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Beef and Vegetables
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess grease, then add the chopped onions, bell peppers, and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are soft and fragrant. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Remove the beef mixture from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Provolone Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about a minute until golden brown, forming a roux. Slowly pour in the beef broth and milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
Reduce the heat to low and gradually stir in the shredded provolone and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. The sauce should be creamy and rich.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the cooked beef and vegetable mixture to the skillet, stirring to coat it evenly in the cheese sauce. Gently fold in the cooked tortellini until fully combined.
Step 6: Melt the Cheese and Serve
Sprinkle additional provolone cheese on top and cover the skillet for a couple of minutes, allowing the cheese to melt. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, then serve hot.
How Long to Cook Cheesesteak Tortellini
Cooking times may vary slightly depending on whether you’re using fresh or frozen tortellini and how thick your cheese sauce is. Here are some general guidelines:
- Fresh Tortellini – Cooks in about 3-5 minutes in boiling water.
- Frozen Tortellini – Takes about 5-7 minutes to cook.
- Simmering in Sauce – Once combined with the sauce, let it cook for 2-3 minutes to absorb flavor before serving.
How to Store Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, they can be stored easily for future meals. Here’s how to keep your dish fresh:
- Refrigerator – Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce if needed.
- Freezer – You can freeze Cheesesteak Tortellini, but the sauce may slightly separate upon reheating. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Tips for the Best Cheesesteak Tortellini
To ensure the most delicious and creamy Cheesesteak Tortellini, keep these helpful tips in mind:
- Use High-Quality Cheese – Freshly shredded provolone and mozzarella melt better and provide a richer flavor than pre-shredded cheese.
- Don’t Overcook the Tortellini – Since the pasta will continue to cook slightly in the sauce, avoid overboiling it.
- For an Authentic Cheesesteak Flavor – Use thinly sliced ribeye steak instead of ground beef. Cook it in butter and slice it into bite-sized pieces before adding it to the sauce.
- Adjust the Sauce Consistency – If the sauce gets too thick, add a little extra milk or beef broth to loosen it up.
- Extra Toppings – For added cheesesteak authenticity, top with sautéed mushrooms or banana peppers.
Save this recipe for later and enjoy the rich, cheesy goodness of Cheesesteak Tortellini in every bite!
