Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce
Introduction
Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce is an indulgent fusion of Italian comfort food and American street food classic. Imagine tender cheese-filled tortellini tossed with savory strips of steak, sautéed peppers, and onions, all smothered in a velvety provolone cheese sauce. This dish is bold, satisfying, and guaranteed to impress with its gooey, creamy texture and umami-rich flavor.
Origin and Cultural Significance
The cheesesteak sandwich—originating from Philadelphia in the early 20th century—is iconic in American cuisine, made with thinly sliced steak, sautéed onions, and melted cheese on a hoagie roll. Tortellini, a filled pasta from Emilia-Romagna, Italy, is a centuries-old staple traditionally filled with meat or cheese and served in broth or cream sauces.
Combining these two into Cheesesteak Tortellini is a creative cross-cultural innovation, reflecting the modern American food scene’s love for comfort fusion, where bold flavors meet culinary tradition. It’s a nod to Italian-American heritage and the ever-evolving flavors of home kitchens and food trucks alike.
Ingredients Quantity (Serves 4–6)
For the Pasta and Steak:
- 1 lb (450g) cheese tortellini (fresh or refrigerated)
- 1 lb (450g) thinly sliced steak(ribeye, flank, or sirloin)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 1 small green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small red bell pepper, sliced
- Salt & black pepper to taste
For the Provolone Sauce:
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup shredded provolone cheese
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
- Salt and white pepper to taste
- Pinch of garlic powder (optional)
Optional Additions
- Mushrooms – sautéed with the peppers and onions
- Red pepper flakes – for a little heat
- Worcestershire sauce – a dash in the steak adds depth
- Cream cheese – for an ultra-silky sauce
- Fresh parsley – for garnish and brightness
- Toasted breadcrumbs – on top for crunch
Tips for Success
- Use high-quality provolone for a smooth, flavorful sauce—smoked provolone adds a twist.
- Don’t overcook the tortellini; al dente holds up better in creamy sauces.
- Slice steak thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness.
- Cook veggies until just tender—they should still have some bite.
- Stir cheese in gradually off heat to prevent clumping or breaking the sauce.
Instructions
- Cook Tortellini:
Bring salted water to a boil and cook tortellini according to package directions. Drain and set aside. - Sear the Steak:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add steak, season with salt and pepper, and cook until just browned (2–3 minutes). Remove and set aside. - Sauté Veggies:
In the same skillet, sauté onions and peppers until softened, about 5–7 minutes. Add steak back to pan and mix. Turn off heat. - Make the Provolone Sauce:
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook 1–2 minutes to form a roux. Slowly whisk in milk until smooth. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring until thickened (about 5 minutes). Remove from heat, then stir in provolone (and Parmesan, if using) until melted and silky. Season with salt, white pepper, and garlic powder if desired. - Combine:
Add cooked tortellini to the skillet with steak and veggies. Pour in the provolone sauce and toss everything together until well coated and heated through. - Serve:
Garnish with chopped parsley or a sprinkle of extra cheese, and serve hot.
Description
This dish is creamy, cheesy, and deeply savory. Each bite delivers chewy tortellini, juicy steak strips, sweet caramelized peppers and onions, and a blanket of rich provolone sauce. It’s comfort food at its most decadent, perfect for cozy dinners, special weekends, or showing off at a potluck.
Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving – based on 6 servings)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~580 kcal |
| Protein | ~28g |
| Carbohydrates | ~40g |
| Fat | ~35g |
| Saturated Fat | ~18g |
| Fiber | ~2g |
| Sugars | ~5g |
| Sodium | ~800mg |
| Calcium | ~25% DV |
| Iron | ~15% DV |
Note: Nutritional values vary with exact ingredients and cheese brand used.
Conclusion
Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce is a luxurious, mouth-watering dish that brings together the heartiness of Philly cheesesteak with the creamy elegance of Italian pasta. It’s surprisingly easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying—sure to become a favorite for comfort food lovers.
Recommendation
Pair it with a crisp green salad or roasted broccoli to balance the richness. A glass of dry white wine (like Pinot Grigio) or a light red (like Chianti) complements the flavors beautifully. For a lighter version, consider using whole wheat tortellini and light provolone.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
While this dish leans into indulgence, it can still be part of a mindful lifestyle. It encourages cooking from scratch, using real ingredients, and sharing hearty meals with people you care about. Control the portion size, add a veggie-packed side, and savor every bite without guilt. Food can be both nourishing and soul-satisfying.