When you think of comfort food, what comes to mind? For many, the combination of hearty pasta, tender beef, and rich, creamy cheese creates the ultimate meal experience. Enter Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce — an indulgent dish that takes the essence of a classic Philly cheesesteak and combines it with the tender goodness of cheese-filled tortellini.
In this article, we’ll explore everything that makes this dish so special. From the flavors of savory beef to the smooth provolone sauce that ties it all together, you’ll learn how to recreate this delicious comfort food at home. Whether you’re a fan of classic cheesesteak or just love a good pasta dish, this recipe is sure to satisfy.
Why You’ll Love This Cheesesteak Tortellini Recipe
This Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce recipe is packed with flavor and texture, offering the best of both worlds: hearty pasta and savory beef. With tender tortellini that is generously coated in a creamy provolone sauce, this dish is the perfect balance between richness and comfort. The addition of caramelized onions and cubed beef steak enhances the flavor, creating a satisfying and fulfilling meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients you’ll need for this recipe, which serves 4 people:
- 1 package (12 oz) cheese tortellini: Cheese-filled tortellini adds richness and depth to the dish.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used for sautéing the onions and beef.
- 1 large onion, sliced: Adds sweetness and flavor once caramelized.
- 1 pound beef steak, cubed: Tender beef steak provides the heartiness that makes this dish feel like a classic Philly cheesesteak.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Seasons the beef to bring out its natural flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper: Adds a touch of spice to balance the richness of the sauce.
- 1 cup beef broth: Provides a savory base for the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce: Enhances the umami flavor of the dish.
- 1 cup shredded provolone cheese: Melted into the beef and broth mixture to create a smooth, rich sauce.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Cheesesteak Tortellini
Now, let’s dive into the cooking process and learn how to bring this delicious dish to life.
1. Prepare the Tortellini
Start by cooking the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions. Typically, this involves boiling water and cooking the pasta for around 7-10 minutes. Once the tortellini is cooked, drain the water and set the tortellini aside while you prepare the rest of the dish.
2. Sauté the Onions
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onion to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are softened and caramelized, which takes about 5-7 minutes. The caramelized onions bring a sweet, savory depth to the final dish that mimics the flavors of a Philly cheesesteak.
3. Cook the Beef Steak
Once the onions are caramelized, add the cubed beef steak to the skillet. Season the beef with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper. Cook the beef for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cubes are browned on all sides and cooked through.
4. Create the Sauce
After the beef is fully cooked, pour 1 cup of beef broth and 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce into the skillet. Stir everything together to combine and let the mixture simmer for 3-4 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld together, creating a savory base for the sauce.
5. Melt the Provolone Cheese
Reduce the heat to low and sprinkle 1 cup of shredded provolone cheese over the beef mixture. Stir the cheese into the broth until it melts completely and forms a smooth, rich sauce. The provolone cheese adds a velvety texture and creamy flavor that perfectly complements the beef and onions.
6. Combine with Tortellini
Finally, gently fold in the cooked cheese tortellini into the skillet, making sure each piece is coated with the provolone sauce. Serve the dish immediately, garnished with additional shredded provolone cheese if desired.
Serving Suggestions
Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce is a complete meal on its own, but you can serve it with a few sides to enhance the experience:
- Garlic Bread: The richness of the dish pairs beautifully with the crunchy texture and bold flavors of garlic bread.
- Simple Green Salad: A light salad with a lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the heavy, cheesy pasta dish.
- Roasted Vegetables: Adding roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or bell peppers can bring a healthy balance to your meal.
Notes & Tips for Success
Here are a few tips to ensure your Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce turns out perfect every time:
- Use Fresh Cheese Tortellini: Fresh tortellini from the refrigerated section will cook faster and have a more tender texture than the dried variety.
- Choose High-Quality Beef: Opt for tender cuts of beef, such as sirloin or tenderloin, to ensure the steak cooks evenly and remains juicy.
- Adjust the Seasoning: Taste the sauce before serving and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. Depending on your preferences, you might want to add more Worcestershire sauce for a richer umami flavor.
Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Nutritional Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g