If you love the irresistible flavors of a classic cheesesteak and crave a comforting pasta dish, then you are going to adore this Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce. This recipe takes tender cheese tortellini and smothers it in a velvety, dreamy provolone cheese sauce, loaded with succulent strips of seasoned beef and vibrant sautéed peppers and onions. Every forkful delivers that perfect balance of creamy cheese, savory meat, and the bright freshness of vegetables, making it an absolute showstopper for dinner. Whether you’re looking for something new to impress family or friends, or simply in need of a cozy, satisfying meal, this dish hits all the right notes and will quickly become a much-loved favorite in your kitchen.

Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, quality ingredients is key to nailing the luscious flavors and textures in this dish. Each element plays a unique role, from the tender cheese tortellini that absorbs the sauce beautifully to the fresh bell peppers that add a subtle sweetness and crunch.

12 oz refrigerated cheese tortellini: Choose fresh tortellini for the best texture and buttery bite.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Provides a silky base to cook the beef and veggies without overpowering flavors.
1 lb thinly sliced beef (ribeye or sirloin): Thin strips cook quickly and stay tender – perfect for this dish.
1 green bell pepper, sliced: Adds a crisp, slightly bitter freshness that balances the richness.
1 red bell pepper, sliced: Brings a touch of sweetness and vibrant color.
1 medium onion, thinly sliced: Offers sweetness when caramelized and depth to the flavor.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Delivers a warm, aromatic bite to enhance the sauce.
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Essential to thicken the rich provolone sauce to creamy perfection.
1 ½ cups milk: Creates a smooth, velvety base for the cheese sauce.
1 cup beef broth: Adds savory depth and umami richness to the sauce.
8 oz provolone cheese, shredded: The star of the show – melty, mild, and flavorful cheese that coats everything beautifully.
Salt and pepper, to taste: Enhances and balances all the other flavors.
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional): Brightens the dish with a fresh herbal hint when sprinkled on top.

How to Make Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce

Step 1: Cook the Tortellini

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. This step is crucial because the salt seasons the pasta while it cooks. Toss in the refrigerated cheese tortellini and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once done, drain the tortellini well and set them aside – they’ll eagerly await that luscious sauce later.

Step 2: Sauté the Beef

Heat your olive oil in a spacious skillet over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced beef strips and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook the beef for about 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally until it’s beautifully browned on all sides. This caramelization locks in flavor and keeps the beef tender. Once cooked, remove the beef from the skillet and set aside so it stays juicy and ready to join the rest of the ingredients soon.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables

In the same skillet, let the colors come alive by adding the green and red bell peppers along with the sliced onion. Sauté these vibrant veggies until they soften and the onion turns translucent, about 5 minutes. Add in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute — this moment releases that wonderful aroma that hints at the delicious meal ahead. Remove the veggies from the skillet and keep them with the beef for assembly.

Step 4: Make the Provolone Sauce

To create the creamy sauce, stay in that flavor-packed skillet and sprinkle in the flour. Stir constantly over medium heat for 1 to 2 minutes to cook off the raw flour taste; this is the start of a luscious roux. Slowly whisk in the milk and beef broth, making sure no lumps form. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer until it thickens slightly. Now comes the magic moment—gradually stir in the shredded provolone cheese a handful at a time, letting it melt fully before adding more. The cheese will transform the sauce into a smooth, rich coating full of savory goodness. Season it with salt and pepper to your preference.

Step 5: Combine Everything Together

Return the cooked beef and sautéed vegetables to the skillet, followed by the drained tortellini. Gently toss everything together so that every morsel gets enveloped in the silky provolone sauce. This final toss unites all the textures and flavors beautifully.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top to add a pop of bright green and fresh herbal notes. Serve the Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce immediately while it’s hot and oozing with cheesy comfort. Your taste buds are in for a celebration!

How to Serve Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is a simple but stunning garnish that adds color and lifts the rich flavors with a subtle herbal brightness. For a little extra zing, consider a light dusting of freshly ground black pepper or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for some heat.

Side Dishes

Since the Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce is wonderfully filling and rich, pairing it with light, crisp sides works best. A fresh garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette or some roasted asparagus with lemon zest makes the perfect balance on your plate. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette can also be delightful for sopping up every last bit of that creamy sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress your guests visually? Serve the tortellini in individual shallow bowls with a sprinkle of grated provolone on top. Add a sprig of parsley or sprinkle some chopped chives for elegance. Another fun approach is layering the dish in small glass jars for a classy casual dinner party—each jar showcasing the colorful veggies and creamy sauce through the glass.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This dish keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store leftover Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce in an airtight container to maintain the sauce’s creaminess and prevent the beef from drying out.

Freezing

While freezing is possible, it’s best to freeze before combining the tortellini with the sauce to preserve texture. Freeze the cooked beef and vegetables separately or the sauce on its own. When thawed and reheated, add freshly cooked tortellini for a just-made feel.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring frequently so the sauce warms evenly without separating. Add a splash of milk or broth if the sauce thickens too much. Avoid microwaving at high power to keep the cheese sauce silky and smooth.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of provolone?

Absolutely! While provolone gives the sauce its signature creamy melt and subtle smokiness, you can experiment with mozzarella, fontina, or a mild cheddar for a twist. Just be mindful that different cheeses melt differently and may alter the sauce texture slightly.

Is this dish suitable for freezing?

You can freeze parts of this dish, especially the sauce and cooked meat separately. However, freezing the fully assembled meal may affect the tortellini texture, making it softer when reheated. For best results, freeze components and add freshly cooked pasta at serving time.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Definitely! Swap the beef with sautéed mushrooms or plant-based meat alternatives, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. The rich provolone sauce will still deliver plenty of comforting, cheesy goodness.

What wine pairs well with Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce?

A medium-bodied red wine like a Merlot or a fruity Zinfandel complements the savory beef and creamy provolone sauce beautifully. For white wine lovers, an oaked Chardonnay with buttery notes also pairs nicely.

How can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Feel free to add other quick-cooking veggies such as sliced mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach. Add them during the vegetable sauté step to maintain freshness and texture, giving your Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce even more vibrant flavor and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a dish that brings together all the best parts of a cheesesteak with the cozy, comforting vibes of cheesy pasta, you have to try this Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce. It’s surprisingly easy to prepare yet feels indulgent and special with every bite. I promise once you make it, it’ll become a quick favorite to pull out whenever you need a delicious pick-me-up. So grab your skillet, get that provolone melting, and make this crave-worthy recipe yours tonight!