
Introduction to Cheesesteak Tortellini in Creamy Provolone Sauce
As a busy mom, I often find myself juggling the day’s responsibilities while dreaming of a satisfying dinner. Enter my Cheesesteak Tortellini in Creamy Provolone Sauce, a dish that marries hearty flavors with convenience. This delightful recipe comes together in just 35 minutes, making it a fantastic option for those hectic weeknights when time is scarce. Plus, it combines the comforting richness of creamy provolone and tender steak, sure to impress everyone at the dinner table. Your loved ones will marvel at your culinary skills, and you’ll relish the minimal cleanup afterward!
Why You’ll Love This Cheesesteak Tortellini in Creamy Provolone Sauce
This Cheesesteak Tortellini in Creamy Provolone Sauce is not just another pasta dish; it’s a game-changer for busy nights. It’s quick and simple, yet bursting with flavor, making it a surefire hit with picky eaters and adventurous palates alike. You’ll love how effortlessly the rich, creamy sauce envelops each tortellini, creating comforting bites. Plus, the satisfaction of a homemade meal in under 40 minutes is hard to beat!
Ingredients for Cheesesteak Tortellini in Creamy Provolone Sauce
When crafting my Cheesesteak Tortellini in Creamy Provolone Sauce, I ensure to choose only the freshest ingredients for a mouthwatering experience. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Cheese tortellini: The star of this dish! Pot for fresh or frozen, and either option works like a charm.
- Olive oil: Adds a lovely depth while sautéing; you could also use butter, but olive oil is my go-to for healthier cooking.
- Onion: A large, sliced onion brings sweetness and a hint of savories to the dish.
- Cubed beef steak: Tender, juicy pieces of beef are essential for that comforting cheesesteak flavor.
- Salt and pepper: These staples enhance the overall flavor of your dish. Don’t skip them!
- Beef broth: Adds a savory foundation. Homemade or store-bought works well—just check the label for sodium content.
- Worcestershire sauce: This secret ingredient infuses a unique umami flavor. A little goes a long way!
- Shredded provolone cheese: The creamy, melting cheese creates that luscious sauce. Feel free to mix in mozzarella or cheddar for a twist.
For any substitutions, you can swap the beef for chicken or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian version. You’ll find all the exact measurements at the bottom of the article, ready for you to print and take to the kitchen!
How to Make Cheesesteak Tortellini in Creamy Provolone Sauce
Preparation
To kick things off, grab your package of cheese tortellini. If it’s refrigerated, let it sit out for a few minutes. This helps to enhance its tenderness and speeds up cooking time. While you’re at it, gather all your ingredients. Prepping ahead keeps the chaos at bay, especially during those busy evenings.
Sauté Aromatics
Next, let’s heat up a large sauté pan. Add a tablespoon of olive oil and warm it over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Toss in the sliced onion. It should sizzle and begin to caramelize, filling your kitchen with a sweet aroma. Cook until the onion becomes nice and translucent, approximately 3-4 minutes. This step sets a flavorful base.
Cook the Steak
Now, introduce the cubed beef steak to the pan. Spread it out evenly for a good sear. Season it with salt and pepper, making sure every piece is seasoned. Leave them alone for about 2 minutes to form a lovely browned crust. Stir and continue cooking until the steak is perfectly tender but not overdone, around 5 minutes more.
Build the Flavor Base
Time to layer in some serious flavor! Pour in the cup of beef broth and the two tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer. Don’t forget to use a wooden spoon to scrape up any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom. That’s where the magic lies! This creates a rich foundation for our dish.
Add the Tortellini
Gentle now! Carefully add the cheese tortellini to the pan. Stir it all together, making sure the tortellini gets coated in that delicious beefy broth. Let it mingle with the steak and onions for about 3 minutes. This allows the tortellini to soak up all those wonderful flavors.
Create the Sauce
Lower the heat and sprinkle the shredded provolone cheese across the mixture. Stir slowly but steadily, watching that cheese melt into the luscious sauce you’re creating. The result should be a creamy consistency that hugs every tortellini. It’s pure comfort food bliss!
Finish and Serve
Once your sauce is wonderfully creamy, take the dish off the heat. It’s time to enjoy your creation! Serve immediately, maybe garnished with a sprinkle of freshly ground pepper or chopped parsley for a pop of color. Each bite of tender steak, cheesy tortellini, and that rich sauce is sure to be a hit!
Tips for Success
- Always have your ingredients prepped and ready to go. It streamlines the cooking process and minimizes chaos.
- Ensure the pan is hot before adding ingredients. This helps achieve a nice sear on the steak.
- Don’t rush the cheese melting process. Stir patiently for a silky sauce.
- Feel free to adjust seasonings based on your taste. Every palate is unique!
Equipment Needed
- Large sauté pan: Essential for cooking the steak and tortellini. A deep skillet works fine too.
- Wooden spoon: Perfect for mixing and scraping up flavor bits. A silicone spatula is a good alternative.
- Measuring cups: Useful for liquid ingredients. You can use any cup you have on hand.
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Swap out the beef steak for sautéed mushrooms or zucchini to create a tasty vegetarian version.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to infuse some heat into your creamy sauce.
- Cheese Lovers: Mix in additional cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for an even richer, cheesier flavor profile.
- Veggie Boost: Toss in chopped bell peppers or baby spinach during the sautéing stage for a nutritious boost.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free tortellini to keep this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diners.
Serving Suggestions
- Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish.
- Garlic Bread: Serve with warm, crusty garlic bread for a delightful dip into the creamy sauce.
- Wine Pairing: Enjoy with a chilled white wine like Pinot Grigio for a refreshing contrast.
- Presentation: Garnish with fresh parsley or basil to add a pop of color.
FAQs about Cheesesteak Tortellini in Creamy Provolone Sauce
Can I use a different type of cheese for the sauce? Absolutely! While provolone gives that creamy indulgence, you can experiment with mozzarella, gouda, or even cheddar for a unique twist.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep? Yes! Cheesesteak Tortellini in Creamy Provolone Sauce keeps well in the refrigerator for 3 days. Just reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Can I make this dish in advance? You can prepare the components—sautéed steak and sauce—before cooking the tortellini. Just combine them right before serving to enjoy that fresh taste!
What can I serve with it? This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or even a refreshing glass of white wine. Each balances the richness perfectly!
How can I make it gluten-free? Pot for gluten-free tortellini available in health food stores. This way, you can still enjoy this comforting dish without the gluten.
Final Thoughts
Creating Cheesesteak Tortellini in Creamy Provolone Sauce has transformed my weeknight dinners into delightful experiences. With every bite, I savor the comforting blend of flavors that brings my family together, even on the busiest days. This dish serves not just as a meal but as a reminder that cooking can be an enjoyable adventure, even with a hectic schedule. The smiles around the dinner table are worth every minute spent in the kitchen. So, whether I’m impressing guests or feeding my kids, this recipe never fails to deliver joy and satisfaction.
Print
Cheesesteak Tortellini in Creamy Provolone Sauce
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Cheesesteak Tortellini in Creamy Provolone Sauce is a delightful dish that combines cheese tortellini with tender steak and a rich provolone cheese sauce.
Ingredients
- One package (12 oz) of cheese tortellini
- One tablespoon of olive oil
- One large onion, sliced
- One pound of cubed beef steak
- Half a teaspoon of salt
- Quarter teaspoon of pepper
- One cup of beef broth
- Two tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce
- One cup of shredded provolone cheese
Instructions
- Preparation: Begin by ensuring your cheese tortellini is ready to go. If you’re using refrigerated tortellini, allow it to come to room temperature; this enhances its tenderness and reduces cooking time.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large sauté pan, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and heat over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the sliced onion, frying until it becomes translucent and slightly caramelized, releasing its sweet aroma.
- Cook the Steak: Introduce the cubed beef steak into the pan, spreading it evenly. Season with salt and pepper. Allow the steak to sear undisturbed for about 2 minutes to create a beautifully browned exterior. Stir and continue cooking until the steak is cooked through yet tender.
- Build the Flavor Base: Pour in 1 cup of beef broth and add 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce. Let the liquid come to a simmer, utilizing a wooden spoon to scrape any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom, which melds the tastes together.
- Add the Tortellini: Gently introduce the cheese tortellini to the pan. Stir carefully, ensuring even distribution under the rich, savory sauce. Allow it to mingle with the beef and onions for about 3 minutes, absorbing their flavors.
- Create the Sauce: Lower the heat and scatter the shredded provolone cheese over the mixture. Stir steadily until the cheese is thoroughly melted and the sauce acquires a creamy consistency, cloaking the tortellini luxuriously.
- Finish and Serve: Once the provolone sauce is smooth and creamy, remove the dish from heat. Serve immediately, garnished with freshly ground pepper or parsley, if desired. Enjoy each bite of tender steak, cheesy tortellini, and luscious sauce.
Notes
- For an extra touch, consider adding sautéed bell peppers or mushrooms to the mix.
- This dish pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 56g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg