Cheesesteak Tortellini with Creamy Provolone Sauce

There’s something about the classic flavors of a cheesesteak—savory beef, caramelized onions, and gooey cheese—that makes it an all-time favorite. Now, imagine combining that with tender cheese-stuffed tortellini, all coated in a rich, creamy provolone sauce. That’s exactly what this Cheesesteak Tortellini recipe delivers: indulgent comfort food that’s incredibly easy to make.

This dish is perfect for beginner cooks because it requires minimal prep, uses simple ingredients, and comes together in just one pan. Plus, it’s a quick and hearty meal that tastes like it took hours to make. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe will make you feel like a kitchen pro.

Cheesesteak Tortellini with Creamy Provolone Sauce

Why This Recipe is Special

This Cheesesteak Tortellini isn’t just another pasta dish—it’s a perfect fusion of flavors and textures:

  • Bold, Savory Flavors – The combination of beef, onions, and provolone cheese mirrors the classic cheesesteak taste.
  • Rich and Creamy Sauce – Provolone melts beautifully, creating a velvety sauce that coats every bite.
  • Quick and Easy – With simple steps and minimal ingredients, this dish is ideal for beginners.
  • One-Pan Convenience – Less cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal.

Now, let’s dive into the ingredients and how each one plays a role in making this dish irresistible.

Ingredients and Preparation

Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Cheese Tortellini – This pasta is stuffed with cheese, adding an extra layer of creaminess. Fresh or frozen works fine.
  • Olive Oil – Used for sautéing the onions and beef, adding depth to the flavors.
  • Onion – Caramelized onions bring natural sweetness and balance the dish.
  • Beef Steak – The heart of the cheesesteak flavor. Sliced or cubed, it provides a meaty bite.
  • Salt and Pepper – Basic seasoning to enhance the beef’s natural flavors.
  • Beef Broth – Adds richness and moisture while helping to create the sauce.
  • Worcestershire Sauce – Brings in a deep umami taste that complements the beef perfectly.
  • Provolone Cheese – The star of the sauce, giving it a gooey, creamy texture.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

  • Meat Swap – Use ground beef, shredded rotisserie chicken, or even mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
  • Pasta Swap – If you don’t have tortellini, use regular pasta like penne or rigatoni.
  • Cheese Swap – Mozzarella, Swiss, or a mix of cheeses will work if you don’t have provolone.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Tortellini

Boil the tortellini according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook until they turn soft and golden brown. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.

Step 3: Cook the Beef

Increase the heat to medium-high. Add the cubed beef steak, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned. This should take about 3–5 minutes. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan so the meat browns properly instead of steaming.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well, scraping up any bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes to reduce slightly.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Reduce the heat to low and add the cooked tortellini. Stir to coat everything in the sauce.

Step 6: Melt the Cheese

Sprinkle shredded provolone cheese over the top and cover the skillet with a lid. Let it sit for a couple of minutes until the cheese melts into a gooey, irresistible topping.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the Cheesesteak Tortellini hot, garnished with extra cheese if desired.

Beginner Tips and Notes

  • How to Tell When the Beef is Cooked – Look for browned edges and no pink in the center. If using a thermometer, the internal temperature should be at least 145°F for medium-rare or 160°F for well-done.
  • Avoid Overcooking the Tortellini – Since it will be heated again in the sauce, cook it just until tender to prevent mushiness.
  • Make it Extra Creamy – Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a pat of butter for a silkier sauce.
  • If the Cheese Doesn’t Melt – Use a lid to trap steam, which helps melt the provolone more evenly.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this dish with a side to balance out the richness:

  • Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
  • Simple Green Salad – A fresh contrast to the hearty pasta.
  • Steamed Broccoli – A healthy addition that complements the cheesy flavors.

Storage and Reheating

  • Refrigeration – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating – Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to bring back the sauce’s creaminess.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for an easy, comforting meal that feels fancy but requires little effort, this Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce is the answer. With simple steps and a foolproof one-pan method, even beginner cooks can whip up a restaurant-quality dish at home.

Try it out and let us know how it turns out! Share your experience in the comments—did you stick with provolone or try a different cheese? We’d love to hear your favorite variations.

Happy cooking!

FAQ About Cheesesteak Tortellini with Creamy Provolone Sauce

Can I use frozen tortellini instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen tortellini works just as well. Simply cook it according to the package instructions before adding it to the skillet.

What’s the best cut of beef for this recipe?

Sirloin, ribeye, or flank steak are great choices since they cook quickly and stay tender. You can also use pre-sliced cheesesteak meat for convenience.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth to maintain the creamy texture.

How do I make the sauce extra creamy?

For an even richer sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream or melt in a small amount of cream cheese before adding the tortellini.

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Cheesesteak Tortellini with Creamy Provolone Sauce

Cheesesteak Tortellini with Creamy Provolone Sauce


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  • Author: Ashely
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

This Cheesesteak Tortellini combines the bold, savory flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak with the comforting, cheesy goodness of tortellini. Tender beef, caramelized onions, and melty provolone come together in a creamy, rich sauce, making this a one-pan meal perfect for busy nights.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz cheese tortellini
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 large onion, sliced
  • 1 lb beef steak, cubed
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 cup shredded provolone cheese

Instructions

  1. Cook the Tortellini: Boil the tortellini according to the package directions until tender. Drain and set aside while preparing the rest of the dish.
  2. Sauté the Onions: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and caramelized, about 5–7 minutes.
  3. Brown the Beef: Increase the heat to medium-high and add the cubed steak to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper, then cook until the beef is well browned on all sides, about 3–5 minutes.
  4. Make the Sauce: Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, stirring to deglaze the skillet. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop and the sauce to reduce slightly.
  5. Combine the Ingredients: Reduce the heat to low and add the cooked tortellini to the skillet, tossing everything together to ensure the pasta is well coated in the sauce.
  6. Melt the Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded provolone cheese over the top. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it sit for a few minutes, allowing the cheese to melt into a rich, gooey topping.
  7. Serve and Enjoy: Remove from heat and serve immediately, garnished with extra cheese if desired.

Notes

  • For extra creaminess, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a tablespoon of cream cheese before adding the tortellini.
  • To make it a complete meal, serve with a simple side salad or garlic bread.
  • If the cheese doesn’t melt completely, turn off the heat and let the skillet sit covered for an extra minute to allow the steam to finish melting it.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth to prevent drying out.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg

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