Cheesesteak Tortellini in Creamy Provolone Sauce
Cheesesteak Tortellini in Creamy Provolone Sauce is a delicious twist on classic flavors, offering a hearty meal perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. This dish combines the beloved tastes of a cheesesteak with tender tortellini, all enveloped in a rich, creamy provolone sauce. It’s suitable for various occasions, from casual weeknight dinners to festive celebrations, ensuring everyone will love it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of steak, sautéed vegetables, and creamy sauce delivers a mouthwatering taste that stands out.
- Versatile Meal: Serve this as a main dish or pair it with a side salad for a complete meal.
- Kid-Friendly: The cheesy and savory elements make this dish appealing to both kids and adults alike.
- Comforting Dish: Perfect for chilly nights when you crave something warm and satisfying.
Tools and Preparation
To prepare Cheesesteak Tortellini in Creamy Provolone Sauce efficiently, gather the necessary tools beforehand.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Wooden spoon
- Colander
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for boiling the tortellini to perfection without crowding.
- Skillet: Perfect for sautéing ingredients evenly and creating that rich sauce.
- Wooden spoon: Ideal for scraping up those delicious browned bits from the skillet.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
– 8 ounces tortellini
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 pound ribeye steak, thinly sliced
– 1 medium onion, sliced
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup provolone cheese, shredded
– 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
How to Make Cheesesteak Tortellini in Creamy Provolone Sauce
Step 1: Boil the Tortellini
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling:
Add the tortellini and cook according to package instructions (typically 3-5 minutes) until they are al dente.
Drain the tortellini in a colander and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Steak
In a large skillet over medium-high heat:
Heat the olive oil.
Add the thinly sliced ribeye steak to the skillet.
Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally until browned and cooked through.
Remove the cooked steak from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Cook Vegetables
Using the same skillet:
Add the sliced onion and bell pepper.
Cook for about 5-6 minutes until softened and slightly caramelized.
Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 4: Create the Sauce
Once vegetables are cooked:
Season with salt and black pepper.
Pour in beef broth and bring to a simmer while scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
Allow broth to simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
Step 5: Finish the Sauce
Reduce heat to low:
Stir in heavy cream and let thicken for about 2-3 minutes.
Add shredded provolone cheese while stirring constantly until melted.
Mix in grated Parmesan cheese until fully incorporated.
Step 6: Combine Ingredients
Return cooked steak to the skillet:
Mix into the creamy sauce thoroughly.
Gently add drained tortellini into the skillet. Toss them until well coated in sauce.
Step 7: Heat Through
Cook everything together:
For an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
Step 8: Serve
Remove from heat:
Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over your cheesesteak tortellini before serving.
Enjoy your delightful Cheesesteak Tortellini in Creamy Provolone Sauce immediately!
How to Serve Cheesesteak Tortellini in Creamy Provolone Sauce
Cheesesteak Tortellini in Creamy Provolone Sauce is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.
For a Cozy Dinner
- Warm Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread or baguette slices for dipping into the rich sauce.
- Salad: Pair with a fresh garden salad to balance the richness of the tortellini.
For a Family Feast
- Family-Style Platter: Serve in a large bowl, garnished with parsley, allowing everyone to help themselves.
- Cheese Toppings: Offer additional provolone or Parmesan cheese on the side for those who love extra cheese.
For Entertaining Guests
- Wine Pairing: Complement the dish with a glass of red wine, like Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon.
- Themed Decor: Set a cheesesteak theme with Philadelphia-inspired decorations for a fun dinner party atmosphere.
How to Perfect Cheesesteak Tortellini in Creamy Provolone Sauce
To ensure your Cheesesteak Tortellini turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.
- Use Fresh Tortellini: Fresh tortellini provides a better texture and flavor than dried varieties.
- Monitor Cooking Times: Be careful not to overcook the steak; it should be tender and juicy, not tough.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning as you cook, ensuring each ingredient shines through.
- Balance the Sauce: If the sauce is too thick, add more beef broth or cream until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Garnish Generously: Don’t skimp on fresh parsley; it brightens up the dish and adds freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Cheesesteak Tortellini in Creamy Provolone Sauce
Cheesesteak Tortellini pairs wonderfully with several side dishes that complement its creamy flavors. Here are some excellent choices.
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce; simply toast slices of bread with garlic butter.
- Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad adds crunch and contrast to the richness of the tortellini.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide a healthy side option that enhances the meal’s flavor profile.
- Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus offers a fresh touch and vibrant color to your plate.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw balances the richness of the dish while adding texture.
- Bruschetta: Fresh tomato bruschetta brings brightness and acidity, enhancing every bite of tortellini.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Cheesesteak Tortellini in Creamy Provolone Sauce can be delightful, but a few common mistakes might spoil the dish. Here’s how to avoid them:
- Overcooking the Tortellini: Cooking tortellini for too long can make it mushy. Always follow package instructions for al dente results.
- Using Low-Quality Cheese: Cheap cheese may not melt well, affecting your sauce’s texture. Invest in good provolone and Parmesan for a creamy finish.
- Skipping Seasoning: Neglecting to season the steak and vegetables can lead to bland flavors. Use salt, pepper, and garlic generously to enhance taste.
- Not Deglazing the Pan: Failing to scrape up browned bits after cooking the steak can waste flavor. Make sure you deglaze with beef broth for a richer sauce.
- Rushing the Sauce: Allowing the sauce to simmer gradually helps develop flavors. Don’t rush; let it thicken naturally for best results.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keeps well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Cheesesteak Tortellini in Creamy Provolone Sauce
- Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
- Can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Cheesesteak Tortellini in Creamy Provolone Sauce
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place tortellini in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for 20-25 minutes.
- Microwave: Transfer portion into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of cream or broth. Stir until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Cheesesteak Tortellini in Creamy Provolone Sauce:
Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes! While provolone is preferred, you can substitute with mozzarella or gouda for a different flavor profile.
How can I customize my Cheesesteak Tortellini in Creamy Provolone Sauce?
Feel free to add mushrooms, spinach, or even different proteins like chicken or shrimp to make it your own!
What should I serve with this dish?
This delicious meal pairs well with garlic bread or a fresh salad for a balanced dinner.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and tortellini separately and combine them just before serving.
Final Thoughts
Cheesesteak Tortellini in Creamy Provolone Sauce is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for any dinner table. Its creamy texture and rich flavors make it versatile enough for customization; feel free to add your favorite vegetables or proteins. Don’t hesitate to try this delightful recipe!
Cheesesteak Tortellini in Creamy Provolone Sauce
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the comfort of Cheesesteak Tortellini in Creamy Provolone Sauce, a delightful fusion of classic cheesesteak flavors and tender tortellini. This hearty dish features thinly sliced ribeye steak, sautéed vegetables, and a rich provolone sauce that envelops each bite. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, it’s quick to prepare and sure to please both kids and adults alike. With just 45 minutes from start to finish, you can easily whip up this savory meal any night of the week!
Ingredients
- 8 ounces tortellini
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ribeye steak, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup provolone cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Boil tortellini in salted water until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté the ribeye steak until browned; remove from skillet.
- In the same skillet, cook onion and bell pepper until softened; add garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Deglaze with beef broth, simmering briefly before stirring in heavy cream and cheeses until melted.
- Return steak to skillet and toss with cooked tortellini until well coated.
- Heat through for a few minutes before serving; garnish with fresh parsley.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 350g)
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 940mg
- Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 47g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
