Creamy Cheesesteak Tortellini in Provolone Sauce – Ultimate Comfort Dinner

Cheesesteak Tortellini in Creamy Provolone Sauce is the ultimate comfort dinner mashup you didn’t know you needed. This creamy cheesesteak tortellini recipe combines tender steak, sautéed onions and green bell peppers, cheese tortellini, and a rich provolone cheese sauce for a hearty, flavor-packed meal that’s ready in just 45 minutes. If you’re craving a comforting pasta dinner, a steak and tortellini skillet recipe, or a creamy provolone pasta that feels indulgent yet approachable, this Cheesesteak Tortellini in Creamy Provolone Sauce delivers big flavor with satisfying texture. Perfect for family dinners, cozy weekends, or when you want a restaurant-style pasta dish at home, this recipe wraps classic cheesesteak flavors in a silky, cheesy sauce that clings to every bite.

Introduction

There’s something undeniably comforting about the flavors of a classic cheesesteak — savory steak, sweet sautéed onions, tender peppers, and gooey melted cheese. Now imagine those flavors folded into tender cheese tortellini and coated in a creamy provolone sauce. That’s exactly what Cheesesteak Tortellini in Creamy Provolone Sauce brings to the table.

This dish transforms a beloved sandwich concept into a fork-friendly, skillet-style pasta dinner. The thinly sliced steak browns quickly, the vegetables soften into sweetness, and the heavy cream and provolone melt into a luxurious sauce that binds everything together. It’s hearty without being complicated, rich without being overwhelming.

With just 15 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of cooking, this intermediate-level recipe feels impressive but remains completely doable for a home cook looking to elevate weeknight dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comfort Food Upgrade – Classic cheesesteak flavors meet creamy pasta.
• Rich and Creamy Texture – Provolone melts into a smooth, velvety sauce.
• Hearty and Filling – Steak and cheese tortellini make it satisfying.
• One-Skillet Sauce – Easy cleanup and streamlined cooking.
• Great for Entertaining – Feels restaurant-worthy but made at home.
• Balanced Flavor – Savory steak, sweet peppers, and creamy cheese in every bite.

Ingredients Breakdown

Serves: Approximately 4
Calories: 600 per serving

• 1 lb cheese tortellini
• 1 lb thinly sliced steak (such as ribeye or sirloin), cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 8 oz provolone cheese, shredded
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Ingredient Highlights

• Cheese tortellini provides tender pasta pockets that hold the sauce beautifully.
• Thinly sliced steak cooks quickly and remains tender.
• Onion and green bell pepper recreate the classic cheesesteak flavor base.
• Beef broth enhances depth and deglazes the skillet.
• Heavy cream creates richness and body.
• Provolone cheese melts smoothly for signature flavor.

All quantities are used exactly as provided.

Tools & Equipment Needed

• Large pot for boiling tortellini
• Colander
• Large skillet
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Tongs
• Measuring cups
• Sharp knife and cutting board

Optional:

• Box grater (if shredding provolone fresh)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Tortellini

Cook 1 lb cheese tortellini according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

2. Brown the Steak

In a large skillet over medium heat, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil. Add the steak pieces and cook until browned, about 3–4 minutes. The edges should caramelize lightly. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.

3. Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the thinly sliced onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté for 5–6 minutes, until vegetables are tender and the onion is translucent.

4. Deglaze with Broth

Add 1 cup beef broth to the skillet, scraping any browned bits from the bottom. Let simmer for 2–3 minutes to slightly reduce.

5. Build the Cream Sauce

Pour in 1 cup heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir occasionally until the sauce slightly thickens, about 4–5 minutes.

6. Add Provolone

Gradually add 8 oz shredded provolone cheese, stirring continuously until fully melted and smooth. The sauce should become creamy and cohesive.

7. Return Steak

Return the cooked steak to the skillet and mix until coated in the cheese sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

8. Combine with Tortellini

Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet. Gently toss until well combined and evenly coated.

9. Garnish and Serve

Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Omit steak and increase sautéed vegetables while keeping sauce structure identical.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free tortellini if available.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream and provolone with dairy-free alternatives.
• Spice Level: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
• Cheese Swap: Substitute provolone with mozzarella for a milder profile.

Flavor Profile

Cheesesteak Tortellini in Creamy Provolone Sauce is savory, creamy, and deeply comforting. The steak adds umami richness, while the onions and peppers contribute sweetness and softness. The provolone melts into a silky sauce with slight sharpness, balanced by the richness of heavy cream. The tortellini adds tender bites of cheesy pasta that soak up every bit of flavor.

The mouthfeel is indulgent — creamy sauce clinging to pasta, tender steak pieces throughout, and subtle vegetable sweetness layered in.

Nutritional Overview

Per serving:

• Calories: 600
• Protein: Estimated 35–40g
• Carbohydrates: Estimated 45–50g
• Fat: Estimated 35–40g
• Fiber: Estimated 3–4g

Dietary Notes: Contains dairy and gluten unless substitutions are used.

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

• Steak and vegetables can be prepped ahead of time.
• Sauce can be made earlier in the day and gently reheated.
• Store leftovers in airtight container up to 3 days.
• Reheat over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen sauce.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of steak?
Ribeye or sirloin works best due to tenderness.

How do I prevent the sauce from becoming grainy?
Add cheese gradually and stir continuously over gentle heat.

Can I prepare this in advance?
Yes, though it’s best served fresh for maximum creaminess.

What if the sauce is too thick?
Add a small splash of beef broth while reheating.

Can I freeze it?
Cream-based sauces may change texture after freezing.

Cooking Timeline

Prep Time	Cook Time	Total Time	Servings
15 mins	30 mins	45 mins	4

Serving Suggestions

Serve in shallow bowls to showcase the creamy sauce. Sprinkle parsley evenly for color contrast. For an elevated presentation, reserve a little shredded provolone to melt on top just before serving.

Recipe Variations

1. Spicy Cheesesteak Tortellini – Add red pepper flakes to the sauce.
2. Mozzarella Version – Substitute provolone with mozzarella.
3. Extra Veggie Twist – Increase onion and pepper quantity slightly for more texture.
4. Saucy Skillet Style – Simmer sauce an extra minute for thicker consistency.

Ingredient Spotlight

Provolone Cheese

Choose freshly shredded provolone for the smoothest melt. Pre-shredded cheese can contain anti-caking agents that affect texture.

Thinly Sliced Steak

Select evenly sliced cuts for quick cooking. Pat dry before browning for better caramelization.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Avoid overcrowding when browning steak.
• Maintain gentle heat when melting cheese to prevent separation.
• Stir continuously when adding provolone for a silky sauce.
• Let dish rest briefly before serving to allow sauce to settle.

Storage & Freezing Guide

Refrigerator: Up to 3 days.
Freezer: Not recommended due to cream sauce texture changes.
Reheating: Low heat on stovetop, stirring gently.
Avoid: High heat that can cause sauce to split.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	600
Protein	35–40g
Carbs	45–50g
Fat	35–40g
Fiber	3–4g

Dietary Notes: Contains dairy and gluten. High-protein comfort food.

Expanded Conclusion

Cheesesteak Tortellini in Creamy Provolone Sauce is the perfect combination of nostalgic flavor and indulgent pasta comfort. It takes everything you love about a classic cheesesteak and transforms it into a creamy, fork-twirling dinner that feels both hearty and elevated.

Whether you’re cooking for family, impressing guests, or simply treating yourself to a rich and satisfying meal, this recipe delivers big flavor in every bite. Save it for your next comfort-food craving — and once you try it, don’t be surprised if it becomes a regular in your dinner rotation.

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