Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this amazing dish I’ve been whipping up lately: cheesesteak tortellini in rich provolone sauce! It’s like a warm hug on a plate, and honestly, who doesn’t love a comforting meal like that? Picture this: tender tortellini filled with cheese, swimming in a creamy, dreamy provolone sauce that’s loaded with the classic flavors of a cheesesteak. The combination of thinly sliced beef, sweet onions, and vibrant bell peppers creates a hearty filling that pairs perfectly with the pasta. It’s quick to make, so it’s fantastic for busy weeknights or when you want to impress friends without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, once you try this dish, it’ll become a regular in your dinner rotation!
Ingredients List
- 12 oz tortellini – Fresh or frozen, filled with your choice of cheese for that delightful burst of flavor.
- 1 lb thinly sliced beef – I love using ribeye or sirloin for their tenderness; they cook up beautifully!
- 1 onion, sliced – Sweet onions work best to add a touch of caramelization that enhances the dish.
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced – Adds a pop of color and a slight crunch; feel free to swap for red or yellow if you prefer.
- 2 cups provolone cheese, shredded – The star of the show! It melts perfectly, creating that rich, creamy sauce.
- 2 cups beef broth – Adds depth to the sauce; homemade or store-bought works just fine.
- 2 tbsp olive oil – Just enough to sauté the veggies and beef; it gives a lovely flavor boost.
- Salt to taste – Essential for enhancing all the flavors, so don’t skimp on this!
- Pepper to taste – A few cracks of black pepper add that perfect finishing touch.
How to Prepare Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce
Step 1: Cook Tortellini
First things first, let’s get that tortellini cooking! Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then toss in 12 ounces of tortellini. Cook according to the package instructions, usually about 3-5 minutes for fresh tortellini or 8-10 minutes for frozen. You want them to be al dente, so don’t forget to taste a piece to check! Once they’re done, drain them and set aside, but make sure to save a splash of that pasta water just in case we need it later.
Step 2: Prepare the Beef and Vegetables
Now, heat up 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once it’s shimmering, add in 1 pound of thinly sliced beef, 1 sliced onion, and 1 sliced green bell pepper. Cook this combo for about 5-7 minutes, stirring often, until the beef is nicely browned and the veggies are tender. Oh, the smell in your kitchen at this point is just heavenly!
Step 3: Simmer with Broth
Next, it’s time to add some rich flavor! Pour in 2 cups of beef broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. You’ll want to let it bubble away for a few minutes; this step infuses all those delicious flavors together, making your sauce really sing!
Step 4: Add Provolone Cheese
Now comes the magical moment—let’s talk cheese! Gradually stir in 2 cups of shredded provolone cheese. Keep stirring until it melts into that creamy, dreamy sauce. You might find yourself licking the spoon; I know I do! If it seems a bit thick, just splash in a bit of that reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
Step 5: Combine with Tortellini
Alright, let’s bring it all together! Gently fold the cooked tortellini into the skillet with the beef and cheese sauce. Give it a good mix to ensure every piece of pasta is coated in that luscious sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste—this is where you can really make it your own!
Step 6: Serve Hot
Finally, it’s time to dig in! Serve your cheesesteak tortellini in rich provolone sauce hot, garnished with a sprinkle of extra cheese or fresh herbs if you’re feeling fancy. Trust me, everyone will be coming back for seconds—enjoy every cheesy bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: This dish comes together in just about 35 minutes, making it perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a delicious meal without a lot of fuss.
- Comforting Flavors: The rich provolone sauce combined with the savory beef and tender tortellini creates a hearty, satisfying dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
- Great for Families: With its blend of familiar flavors, this cheesesteak tortellini is sure to please everyone at the table, from picky eaters to the most adventurous foodies!
- Can Be Made Ahead: You can easily prepare this dish in advance and reheat it when you’re ready to eat, making it a fantastic option for meal prep or entertaining.
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your cheesesteak tortellini in rich provolone sauce turns out absolutely perfect! Here are some of my favorite tips:
- Don’t Overcook the Tortellini: Keep an eye on the cooking time! You want your tortellini to be al dente, which means they should have a slight bite to them. They’ll continue to cook a bit when mixed with the sauce, so no mushy pasta here!
- Use Quality Beef: Choosing a nice cut of beef, like ribeye or sirloin, makes a big difference. The tenderness really shines through in the final dish, and trust me, you’ll taste the love!
- Adjust the Cheese: If you’re like me and can’t resist cheese, feel free to add a bit more provolone! You can also mix in some mozzarella for extra stretch or even a sprinkle of parmesan for a different flavor profile.
- Spice It Up: Want a little kick? Toss in some red pepper flakes while cooking the beef. It adds a nice warmth without overpowering the dish, and it’s a delightful surprise!
- Save that Pasta Water: Remember that splash of pasta water we saved? It’s liquid gold! If your sauce gets too thick, just stir in a bit of that starchy water to loosen it up and make everything silky smooth.
- Garnish for Flair: Don’t forget to garnish your dish! A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dusting of extra cheese on top adds a lovely touch and makes your plate look restaurant-worthy.
With these tips in hand, you’ll be well on your way to creating a delicious, comforting meal that everyone will rave about!
Variations on Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce
If you’re looking to switch things up with your cheesesteak tortellini in rich provolone sauce, I’ve got some fun variations for you! Trust me, experimenting can lead to some seriously delicious results. Here are a few ideas to get your creative juices flowing:
- Mushroom Madness: Toss in some sliced mushrooms when you’re cooking the beef and veggies. They add a lovely earthy flavor and a nice meaty texture that complements the dish perfectly.
- Different Cheeses: While provolone is a star, feel free to mix things up! Try using a blend of mozzarella for extra stretch, or add some sharp cheddar for a tangy twist. You could even sprinkle in some goat cheese for a creamy finish!
- Spicy Kick: If you love a little heat, add some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the beef mixture. It gives the dish a delightful warmth that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
- Veggie Delight: Want to sneak in some extra veggies? Add diced zucchini, spinach, or even roasted red peppers to the mix. They not only add color but also boost the nutritional value of your meal!
- Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs can elevate the flavor! Try stirring in some chopped fresh basil or parsley right before serving for a burst of freshness. It’s like a little garden party on your plate!
- Italian Sausage: For a heartier version, swap out the beef for some Italian sausage. It brings a whole new flavor profile to the dish, and the spices in the sausage really kick it up a notch!
These variations are just a starting point—feel free to mix and match to your heart’s content! The beauty of this dish is its versatility, so get creative and make it your own!
Nutritional Information
Alright, let’s talk about the nutritional side of things! Keep in mind that these values are estimates, but they give you a good idea of what you’re enjoying with your delicious cheesesteak tortellini in rich provolone sauce. Here’s the scoop per serving:
- Calories: 600
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
- Sodium: 900mg
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 35g
This hearty dish packs a punch with its comforting flavors and satisfying ingredients, making it a great choice for a filling meal. Enjoy every cheesy bite while keeping these numbers in mind!
FAQ Section
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While tortellini adds a fun twist, you can use any pasta you like. Penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti would work great—just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose!
What if I don’t have provolone cheese?
No worries! If provolone isn’t available, you can substitute with mozzarella for that melty goodness or cheddar for a sharper flavor. Just remember, each cheese will bring its own unique touch to the dish!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the dish up to the point of mixing in the tortellini, then store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, just heat it up on the stove, adding a splash of broth or water if it looks too thick.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This cheesesteak tortellini in rich provolone sauce reheats beautifully on the stovetop or in the microwave—just add a little splash of broth to keep it creamy!
Can I make it vegetarian?
Definitely! Simply swap the beef for a plant-based protein like mushrooms, tofu, or even a meat substitute. You can still enjoy that rich provolone sauce with all the comforting flavors!
Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce: 5 Steps to Comfort
- Całkowity Czas: 35 minutes
- Ustępować: 4 servings 1x
- Dieta: None
Opis
Cheesesteak tortellini in rich provolone sauce is a hearty dish that combines pasta with the flavors of a classic cheesesteak.
Składniki
- 12 oz tortellini
- 1 lb thinly sliced beef
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 2 cups provolone cheese, shredded
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instrukcje
- Cook tortellini according to package instructions.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the beef, onion, and bell pepper; cook until beef is browned.
- Pour in beef broth and bring to a simmer.
- Add provolone cheese and stir until melted and combined.
- Mix in cooked tortellini and season with salt and pepper.
- Serve hot.
Uwagi
- You can add mushrooms for extra flavor.
- Adjust the amount of cheese based on your preference.
- This dish can be made ahead and reheated.
- Czas Przygotowania: 15 minutes
- Czas gotowania: 20 minutes
- Kategoria: Main Course
- Sposób: Stovetop
- Kuchnia: American
Zasilanie
- Wielkość porcji: 1 serving
- Kalorie: 600
- Cukier: 2g
- Sód: 900mg
- Kwasy: 30g
- Nasycony tłuszcz: 15g
- Tłuszcze Nienasycone: 10g
- Tłuszcze trans: 0g
- Węglowodany: 50g
- Włókno: 3g
- Białko: 35g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Słowa kluczowe: cheesesteak, tortellini, provolone sauce
