Cheesesteak Tortellini in a Rich Provolone Sauce Delight Recipe
Prepare to swoon over layers of comfort, because Cheesesteak Tortellini in a Rich Provolone Sauce Delight takes the classic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak and folds them right into pillowy cheese tortellini, all blanketed with a silky provolone sauce. The result? Every bite is a melding of seared beef, sweet peppers, and luscious cheese, with just enough pasta to catch every drop. This is one of those rare dinner ideas that’s both weeknight-friendly and decadent enough to impress your family or friends—trust me, it never lasts long at my table!
Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need
This ingredient lineup proves that you don’t need a mile-long shopping list to whip up a meal that tastes like a restaurant treat. Each component here brings flair—be it creaminess, umami, crunch, or that hit of cheesesteak nostalgia—making every forkful a party for your taste buds.
- Cheese tortellini (1 package, 20 oz): These little pasta pockets pack in loads of cheesy goodness and act as the heart of the dish.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Helps get the beef beautifully brown and the veggies perfectly tender.
- Beef sirloin (1 lb, thinly sliced): Look for the thinnest slices for tender results that mimic classic cheesesteak texture.
- Green bell pepper (1, sliced): Adds signature color and a slightly sweet crunch reminiscent of your favorite sandwich shop.
- Onion (1, sliced): Sautéed until sweet and golden, it melds with the peppers and beef beautifully.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): For that aromatic punch that takes everything up a notch.
- Butter (2 tablespoons): The start of a truly indulgent cheese sauce base.
- All-purpose flour (2 tablespoons): Whisked in for a quick, easy roux that thickens the sauce flawlessly.
- Whole milk (2 cups): Rich, creamy, and just right for creating a luscious sauce.
- Provolone cheese (1/2 cup, shredded): A star ingredient—go for authentic provolone for that unmistakable tang and melt.
- Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup, grated): Brings complex, salty depth to your sauce.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning everything to perfection.
How to Make Cheesesteak Tortellini in a Rich Provolone Sauce Delight
Step 1: Prepare the Tortellini
Start by cooking the cheese tortellini according to your package’s instructions. Boil until they’re just tender—they’ll get plenty of time to soak up those big flavors later. Drain the tortellini and set aside, but don’t forget to reserve a splash of pasta water just in case you want to loosen up your sauce at the end.
Step 2: Cook the Beef and Vegetables
Heat up that olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s shimmering, add the thinly sliced beef sirloin. Sear for about 5 minutes, tossing occasionally, until the slices are browned and just cooked through. Scoop the beef out and set aside. In the same pan (don’t wash it—you want those tasty bits!), toss in your sliced green bell pepper, onion, and minced garlic. Sauté for 5 to 7 minutes till soft, aromatic, and just a touch caramelized, then mix with the beef.
Step 3: Make the Provolone Sauce
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about a minute, just until it forms a smooth, pale golden roux. Gradually pour in the whole milk while whisking constantly, so your sauce stays smooth and never clumpy. Keep it on the heat, stirring gently, as it thickens and begins to bubble—about 3 to 4 minutes. At this point, stir in the provolone and Parmesan cheeses until everything melts together into a gorgeous, velvety sauce. Taste, then season with salt and pepper as needed.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
Add your cooked tortellini, browned beef, and sautéed vegetables right into the pot of creamy provolone sauce. Gently fold everything together so the tortellini gets coated and all the flavors marry. Transfer to a serving dish and serve while it’s bubbling hot. If you love a finishing touch, add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or extra Parmesan on top!
How to Serve Cheesesteak Tortellini in a Rich Provolone Sauce Delight
Garnishes
A finishing sprinkle of bright, chopped parsley and a dusting of extra Parmesan turns Cheesesteak Tortellini in a Rich Provolone Sauce Delight into a real showstopper. For even more flair, a few ribbons of provolone or a twist of fresh-cracked black pepper does wonders. Serve right in the skillet for rustic charm!
Side Dishes
Pairing is half the fun! I adore serving this hearty dish with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness. Warm garlic bread or a simple toasted Italian loaf is perfect for mopping up every last bit of sauce. Roasted broccoli or asparagus makes for a great nutritional (and colorful) sidekick, too.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn Cheesesteak Tortellini in a Rich Provolone Sauce Delight into individual servings baked in small cast iron skillets or ramekins for dinner parties—guests will swoon. Or, try spooning it into a hollowed sourdough loaf for the ultimate cheesy bread bowl experience. For a fun twist, skewer a tortellini with a cube of beef and pepper for party-style bites that are as delicious as they are adorable.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers of Cheesesteak Tortellini in a Rich Provolone Sauce Delight keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let the dish cool to room temperature, then transfer to an airtight container. The flavors meld as it sits, making lunchtime leftovers a total treat!
Freezing
While the sauce contains dairy, which sometimes separates after freezing, you can absolutely freeze this dish in a pinch. Cool completely, portion into freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to help the sauce stay creamy.
Reheating
Gently reheat Cheesesteak Tortellini in a Rich Provolone Sauce Delight on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk to bring back lost creaminess. If microwaving, cover loosely and use short bursts, stirring frequently. The key is gentle heat so the sauce stays luscious, not gritty.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta if I can’t find tortellini?
Absolutely! While tortellini makes Cheesesteak Tortellini in a Rich Provolone Sauce Delight extra cheesy and comforting, ravioli or even penne work well if you’re in a pinch. Just make sure to use a pasta that can stand up to the sauce and hearty fillings.
What’s the best cut of beef for this recipe?
Thinly sliced sirloin is my top pick for Cheesesteak Tortellini in a Rich Provolone Sauce Delight—it’s tender, flavorful, and cooks quickly. If sirloin isn’t available, try ribeye or even pre-sliced steak from the butcher. The thinner, the better!
Can I prep any elements ahead of time to save time?
Yes! Cook the tortellini and refrigerate, and slice the beef and vegetables a day ahead. You can even make the sauce in advance—just reheat gently and add a splash of milk before combining everything when you’re ready to serve.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Definitely! Skip the beef and add sautéed mushrooms or extra peppers and onions for a hearty vegetarian take on Cheesesteak Tortellini in a Rich Provolone Sauce Delight. The cheesy sauce and pasta make this just as satisfying without meat.
Is there a lighter version of the sauce?
You can lighten things up by swapping whole milk for 2% or using a bit less cheese in the sauce. It won’t be quite as decadent, but you’ll still get those big, savory flavors that define this classic mashup.
Final Thoughts
Cheesesteak Tortellini in a Rich Provolone Sauce Delight is the ultimate answer to weeknight comfort and special occasion feasting alike. If you’re craving something cozy, cheesy, and downright fun, this dish is guaranteed to be a favorite in your kitchen. Give it a try and let those Philly-inspired flavors win you over!
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Cheesesteak Tortellini in a Rich Provolone Sauce Delight Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Cheesesteak Tortellini in a Rich Provolone Sauce Delight. Tender cheese tortellini, savory beef sirloin, and sautéed vegetables are enveloped in a luscious provolone sauce for a decadent pasta dish that will satisfy all your cravings.
Ingredients
Tortellini:
- 1 package (20 oz) cheese tortellini
Beef and Vegetables:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- ½ cup shredded provolone cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Tortellini
Cook Tortellini: Prepare the tortellini according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
- Cook the Beef and Vegetables
Cook Beef: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced beef sirloin and cook until browned about 5 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Cook Vegetables: In the same skillet, add sliced green bell pepper, sliced onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside with the beef. - Make the Provolone Sauce
Melt Butter: In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
Make Roux: Whisk in all-purpose flour and cook for about 1 minute to form a roux (thickening agent).
Add Milk: Gradually pour in the whole milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Stir until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble about 3-4 minutes.
Add Cheese: Stir in shredded provolone cheese and grated Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese melts smoothly into the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. - Combine and Serve
Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked tortellini, browned beef, and sautéed vegetables into the creamy provolone sauce. Stir gently to combine and coat the ingredients in the sauce.
Serve: Transfer to a serving dish and enjoy hot. Garnish with fresh parsley or additional Parmesan cheese, if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 560
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: Cheesesteak Tortellini, Provolone Sauce, Pasta Recipe, Beef and Cheese