Comfort food is all about indulgence, warmth, and familiar flavors. But what happens when you take two beloved classics—cheesesteaks and tortellini—and combine them? The result is a hearty, mouth-watering dish that combines the richness of tortellini with the savory satisfaction of a cheesesteak. This Cheesesteak Tortellini in Creamy Provolone Sauce blends the best of both worlds in a way that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Cheesesteak Tortellini

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish gives you the comfort of a cheesesteak, but with the lighter, satisfying texture of tortellini. The steak and sautéed vegetables create a savory filling that’s complemented by a rich, creamy provolone sauce, all layered over perfectly cooked pasta. Whether you’re craving a comforting family dinner or an indulgent weekend treat, this recipe fits the bill. It’s a fusion of two beloved dishes, combining hearty steak, melty cheese, and tender pasta into one unforgettable meal.

Ingredients

For this rich and satisfying Cheesesteak Tortellini in Provolone Sauce, you will need the following ingredients:

1 package (20 oz) cheese tortellini
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced
1 green bell pepper, sliced
1 onion, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced

For the Provolone 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

Tip: You can find full ingredient measurements in the recipe card below.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Tortellini

Start by cooking the tortellini according to the package directions. Once done, drain and set aside.

2. Cook the Beef and Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced beef sirloin and cook for about 5 minutes, or until browned. Remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.

In the same skillet, toss in the sliced green bell pepper, sliced onion, and minced garlic. Sauté the vegetables for about 5–7 minutes, until softened. Remove from heat and set aside with the beef.

3. Make the Provolone Sauce

In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the all-purpose flour and whisk to make a roux. Let it cook for 1 minute.

Slowly pour in the whole milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue stirring until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble, about 3-4 minutes. Once thickened, stir in the shredded provolone cheese and grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese melts into a smooth, creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Combine and Serve

Add the cooked tortellini, beef, and sautéed vegetables into the creamy provolone sauce. Stir gently to coat everything in the sauce, making sure all ingredients are evenly combined.

Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or additional Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of flavor.

Variations

Vegan Version: Swap the beef for plant-based ground meat or mushrooms and use dairy-free cheese and milk alternatives to make this dish vegan-friendly.
Add Mushrooms: For an extra earthy flavor, sauté mushrooms with the vegetables and add them to the sauce.
Spicy Kick: For a little heat, add some chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.

Storage and Reheating

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. If the sauce becomes too thick when reheating, simply add a splash of milk to loosen it up.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese for the sauce?

Yes, you can swap provolone for mozzarella or even cheddar if you prefer a different flavor. Just keep in mind that the texture and creaminess may vary.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the tortellini and sauce ahead of time and store them separately. Just combine and heat before serving.

Can I use another type of meat besides beef?

Absolutely! Chicken or turkey breast would also work well in this dish, or even a plant-based protein if you prefer a vegetarian option.

What if I don’t have tortellini?

You can substitute tortellini with any pasta you like, such as penne or rigatoni.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled dish for up to 1 month. Just let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. To reheat, bake it in the oven until heated through.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, simply add a bit more flour to the roux or reduce the sauce a little longer.

Can I add more veggies to this recipe?

Of course! Feel free to add in spinach, mushrooms, or even zucchini for extra veggies.

How long will leftovers last?

Leftovers will last in the fridge for about 3 days. Be sure to store them in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, substitute the pasta with gluten-free tortellini or another gluten-free pasta and use a gluten-free flour blend for the sauce.

Can I use pre-cooked beef?

Yes, pre-cooked beef can be used in place of fresh beef. Just add it to the sauce when you mix in the tortellini and vegetables to warm it up.

Conclusion

Cheesesteak Tortellini in Creamy Provolone Sauce is the perfect combination of two comfort food favorites. With tender beef, sautéed vegetables, creamy provolone cheese sauce, and pasta, it’s a meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Quick to make and easy to customize, this dish brings a comforting, hearty dinner to your table in just a few steps. Whether you’re serving it to family or friends, it’s bound to become a favorite go-to recipe