Discover the ultimate comfort dish with this Creamy Cheesesteak Tortellini Recipe that combines the hearty, savory flavors of a classic cheesesteak with the delightful creaminess of cheese-filled tortellini. This dish is a celebration of tender, thinly sliced sirloin steak, rich cheeses, and a silky sauce that coats every bite in pure indulgence. Whether you’re serving a cozy family dinner or impressing friends with something new, this recipe brings all the warmth and flavor you crave in one satisfying plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Creamy Cheesesteak Tortellini Recipe plays a key role in creating a balanced dish, where savory, creamy, and rich textures come together effortlessly. Simple yet flavorful, these ingredients build the foundation for a memorable meal you’ll want to make again and again.
- 1 lb sirloin steak or ribeye: Thinly sliced for tender, juicy bites that deliver that classic cheesesteak taste.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Perfect for searing the steak to golden perfection without overpowering flavors.
- 2 tbsp butter: Adds richness and helps caramelize the onions beautifully.
- 1 medium yellow onion: Sliced finely to bring sweetness and depth through caramelization.
- 3 cloves garlic: Minced for a little punch of aromatic flavor in the sauce.
- 1 tsp salt: Enhances all flavors and seasonings in the dish.
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper: Adds subtle heat and complexity.
- 1/2 tsp paprika: Brings a smoky edge with a hint of warmth.
- 1/2 tsp onion powder: Boosts the savory onion flavor without extra texture.
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce: Adds tanginess and umami to the sauce base.
- 1 cup beef broth: Creates a flavorful liquid component that melds everything together.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Provides luxurious creaminess to coat the tortellini perfectly.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully, offering cheesy gooeyness.
- 2 tbsp cream cheese: Gives the sauce a silky texture and extra richness.
- 20 oz refrigerated cheese tortellini: Soft pillows of cheesy pasta, the star carb in this dish.
- 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tsp water (optional): Use to thicken the sauce if desired.
- 1 tsp fresh parsley: Chopped for a bright pop of color and freshness.
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan (optional): Adds a nutty finish and extra cheesy flavor.
How to Make Creamy Cheesesteak Tortellini Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Begin by slicing your sirloin steak thinly against the grain. This ensures every bite will be tender and easy to chew. Finely slice the yellow onion and mince your garlic cloves. Gather all these prepped ingredients so you’re ready to create the magic.
Step 2: Sear the Steak
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef in batches for 1 to 2 minutes until it’s wonderfully browned but not fully cooked through. Season your beef with salt, pepper, paprika, and onion powder immediately after searing. Once done, set the steak aside on a plate to rest while you build the rest of the dish.
Step 3: Caramelize the Onions and Garlic
In the same skillet, melt butter to capture all the beautiful flavors left by the steak. Add your sliced onions and cook low and slow for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are golden and caramelized. This is the heart of the flavor in your sauce. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute to release its fragrant aroma without burning.
Step 4: Build the Sauce
Deglaze the pan by pouring in Worcestershire sauce and beef broth. Scrape up the flavorful bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet and let it simmer for a couple of minutes. Next, pour in the heavy cream and stir well. Reduce the heat, then add the cream cheese along with the shredded provolone or mozzarella. Stir until the sauce is perfectly smooth and creamy—this is what makes this Creamy Cheesesteak Tortellini Recipe so irresistible.
Step 5: Cook the Tortellini
While your sauce simmers, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the refrigerated tortellini according to package instructions, usually 3 to 5 minutes, until al dente. Drain them carefully and set aside so they don’t overcook.
Step 6: Bring It All Together
Add the seared steak and cooked tortellini into the skillet with your creamy sauce. Gently stir to coat everything evenly in the luscious sauce. If you prefer a thicker sauce, incorporate the cornstarch slurry and let it simmer for another 2 to 3 minutes. This step ensures each bite is decadently saucy without feeling heavy.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
For the finishing touch, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley and a little grated Parmesan over the top. Serve this dish immediately while it’s steaming hot and the cheese sauce is still irresistibly gooey. This final step adds a gorgeous color contrast and a hint of fresh brightness to the deep, comforting flavors.
How to Serve Creamy Cheesesteak Tortellini Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is your go-to garnish for a burst of herbal brightness and a lovely pop of green. The optional grated Parmesan is like the cherry on top, lending a slightly nutty, salty finish that complements the creamy base. Feel free to add crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
Side Dishes
This dish shines brightest on its own but pairs beautifully with simple, crisp side salads to balance richness. A fresh arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette or a light cucumber and tomato salad provides wonderful contrast. Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread is perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a casual dinner, serve family-style in the skillet you cooked it in for a rustic feel. If you want to impress guests, plate it elegantly by twirling the tortellini into nests and draping a few strips of steak on top, finished with a sprinkle of herbs and Parmesan. Adding roasted cherry tomatoes on the side adds color and sweetness for a picture-perfect plate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Creamy Cheesesteak Tortellini Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Because of the creamy sauce, stirring well before reheating helps maintain its luscious texture.
Freezing
Although best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers in portioned airtight containers for up to 2 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve the flavor and texture.
Reheating
Gently warm leftovers in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently and adding a splash of milk or broth if the sauce feels too thick. Avoid the microwave unless necessary, as slow reheating helps keep the steak tender and the sauce creamy.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese for this recipe?
Absolutely! While provolone or mozzarella are classic choices, you can try cheddar for a sharper flavor or even Fontina for extra creaminess. Just be sure to use cheeses that melt well for that perfect sauce consistency.
Is there a vegetarian version of this Creamy Cheesesteak Tortellini Recipe?
Yes! Simply swap the steak for sautéed mushrooms or grilled vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini. The sauce remains the same delicious, creamy base that pairs wonderfully with hearty veggies.
What type of tortellini works best?
Cheese-filled refrigerated tortellini works best because it complements the creamy sauce and steak perfectly. You can also try spinach or mushroom-filled varieties if you want to mix things up.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To adapt it, substitute dairy cheeses with vegan cheese alternatives and use coconut cream or cashew cream instead of heavy cream. Keep in mind the flavor will be different but still tasty and creamy!
How spicy is this Creamy Cheesesteak Tortellini Recipe?
This recipe is mild by default with just a hint of warmth from paprika and black pepper. You can easily adjust the spice level by adding crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce to suit your preference.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Cheesesteak Tortellini Recipe is one of those golden dishes that feels like a big, comforting hug on a plate. Its rich, cheesy, and savory flavors combine effortlessly to create something truly special and memorable. If you haven’t tried blending the boldness of a cheesesteak with tender tortellini yet, now’s your chance—get cooking and enjoy every creamy bite!
Print
Creamy Cheesesteak Tortellini Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Creamy Cheesesteak Tortellini recipe combines tender seared sirloin steak with a rich, velvety cheese sauce and tender cheese-filled tortellini. Enhanced with caramelized onions, garlic, and flavorful seasonings, this hearty and comforting dish brings the classic Philly cheesesteak flavors into a delightful pasta form, perfect for an indulgent weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Meat and Seasonings
- 1 lb sirloin steak or ribeye, thinly sliced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
Sauté
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese
- 2 tbsp cream cheese
- 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tsp water (optional)
Pasta and Garnish
- 20 oz refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1 tsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Slice the sirloin steak thinly against the grain, slice the onion finely, and mince the garlic cloves. Gather all other ingredients to ensure a smooth cooking process.
- Sear the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. In batches, sear the thinly sliced beef for 1–2 minutes until nicely browned. Season the beef with salt, black pepper, paprika, and onion powder. Remove beef and set aside.
- Caramelize Onions: Using the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally until they become golden and caramelized. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Make the Sauce: Deglaze the skillet by pouring in Worcestershire sauce and beef broth. Allow to simmer for 2–3 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Stir in the heavy cream. Reduce heat to low, then add cream cheese and shredded provolone or mozzarella, stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth.
- Cook Tortellini: Meanwhile, cook the cheese tortellini in salted boiling water according to package directions (typically 3–5 minutes) until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Combine and Thicken: Add the seared beef and cooked tortellini to the cheese sauce in the skillet. Gently stir to coat everything evenly. If the sauce needs thickening, stir in the cornstarch slurry and simmer for another 2–3 minutes until the sauce reaches the desired consistency.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately to enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness.
Notes
- For best results, slice the steak thinly against the grain to ensure tenderness.
- Using a mix of provolone and mozzarella adds a nice balance of flavor and meltability.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, the cornstarch slurry can be added; omit if you like it thinner.
- Caramelizing the onions adds a sweet depth of flavor, so take your time with this step.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best garnish flavor.
