Craving the savory flavors of a Philly cheesesteak but want to try something a little different? This Philly Cheesesteak Tortellini Pasta is the perfect answer. Combining tender, cheese-filled tortellini with juicy beef, sautéed peppers, and onions, all smothered in a creamy cheese sauce, this dish is the ultimate comfort food.
What makes this recipe even better is how quickly it comes together. Whether you’re preparing dinner for the family or treating yourself to something special, you’ll love how the bold flavors and indulgent textures come together in one skillet. Plus, with just 30 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is as easy as it is satisfying. Let’s dive in and get cooking!
Prep Time and Servings
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4–6
Ingredients for Philly Cheesesteak Tortellini Pasta
- 1 pound cheese tortellini
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound thinly sliced beef (ribeye or flank steak)
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Tortellini Pasta
1. Cook the Tortellini
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to the package instructions. Once done, drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later use.
2. Sear the Beef
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced beef, season with salt and pepper, and sear for 2–3 minutes on each side until browned and cooked through. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the onions, green bell pepper, red bell pepper, and mushrooms (if using). Sauté over medium heat for 5–7 minutes until softened and slightly caramelized. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Make the Sauce
Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet and melt the butter in the empty space. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously to create a roux, cooking for 1–2 minutes. Slowly pour in the beef broth while whisking to avoid lumps. Add the heavy cream and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, letting it thicken slightly.
5. Add the Cheese
Lower the heat to medium-low and stir in the shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Add the smoked paprika for an extra layer of flavor.
6. Combine Everything
Return the cooked beef to the skillet, followed by the cooked tortellini. Toss everything together until the pasta and beef are fully coated in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
7. Serve and Garnish
Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a vibrant finish.
Pro Tips for the Best Philly Cheesesteak Tortellini Pasta
- Use Fresh Tortellini
Opt for fresh or refrigerated tortellini for the best texture. If using frozen tortellini, make sure to cook it just until al dente to avoid overcooking when combined with the sauce. - Choose the Right Beef
Ribeye is ideal for its rich flavor and tenderness, but flank steak or thinly sliced sirloin also work well. Slice the beef against the grain for melt-in-your-mouth bites. - Don’t Skip the Sear
Searing the beef adds a depth of flavor that carries through the entire dish. Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the beef to get a nice crust. - Grate Your Own Cheese
Freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly into the sauce compared to pre-shredded cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents that can result in a grainy texture. - Adjust the Sauce Consistency
If the sauce becomes too thick, use the reserved pasta water to thin it out. This starchy water helps maintain the sauce’s creamy consistency without diluting the flavor.
Serving Suggestions for Philly Cheesesteak Tortellini Pasta
This rich and flavorful dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and accompaniments. Here are some ideas to complete your meal:
- Garlic Bread: Serve with warm, buttery garlic bread to soak up every drop of the creamy cheese sauce.
- Side Salad: Balance the richness with a fresh green salad topped with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette.
- Roasted Vegetables: Add roasted broccoli, asparagus, or brussels sprouts for a pop of color and nutrients.
- Pickled Vegetables: Tangy pickles or giardiniera can provide a nice contrast to the creamy pasta.
- Sparkling Beverage: Pair this indulgent dish with a refreshing sparkling water, soda, or even a glass of dry white wine to cleanse the palate.
These serving ideas ensure your Philly Cheesesteak Tortellini Pasta shines as the centerpiece of a memorable meal.
Creative Variants for Philly Cheesesteak Tortellini Pasta
This dish lends itself to creative adaptations while keeping the signature Philly cheesesteak flavors intact. Here are some thoughtful options:
- Classic Cheesesteak Pasta: Swap the tortellini for traditional pasta shapes like penne or rigatoni for a simpler take. For inspiration, try this Philly Cheesesteak Pasta recipe, which focuses on straightforward ingredients.
- Loaded Veggie Tortellini: Enhance the dish with extra sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or red bell peppers to create a veggie-packed twist while keeping the creamy cheese sauce.
- Chicken Cheesesteak Tortellini: Substitute the beef with thinly sliced chicken breast for a lighter protein option while retaining the iconic peppers, onions, and cheese sauce.
- Cheesy Broil Tortellini Bake: Once prepared, transfer the tortellini to a baking dish, sprinkle with extra provolone cheese, and broil for a golden, bubbly crust.
- Low-Carb Cheesesteak Tortellini: Use cauliflower gnocchi or a low-carb pasta alternative to make a lighter version that still satisfies your cheesesteak cravings.
FAQs About Philly Cheesesteak Tortellini Pasta
1. What makes Philly Cheesesteak Tortellini different from regular pasta?
Philly Cheesesteak Tortellini uses cheese-filled tortellini instead of plain pasta, adding an extra layer of richness and flavor that complements the creamy cheese sauce and savory beef.
2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of reserved pasta water or cream to maintain the sauce’s consistency.
3. What kind of cheese works best for this dish?
Provolone is the classic choice for Philly cheesesteak-inspired recipes, but mozzarella and Monterey Jack are excellent alternatives. You can even mix them for extra cheesiness.
4. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace the beef with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or more bell peppers for a vegetarian twist while keeping the creamy cheese sauce intact.
5. How is this recipe similar to Philly Cheesesteak Pasta?
Both dishes share the iconic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak—savory beef, sautéed peppers and onions, and creamy cheese sauce. However, this recipe features tortellini for a richer, more indulgent twist.
Conclusion: Indulgent Comfort Food with a Philly Twist
In conclusion, this Philly Cheesesteak Tortellini Pasta is a hearty, indulgent meal that brings the beloved flavors of a Philly cheesesteak to a rich and cheesy pasta dish. The tender tortellini, creamy sauce, and perfectly seasoned beef create a comforting dinner that’s sure to be a hit with family and friends.
Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy weeknight dinner or looking to impress guests with minimal effort, this recipe is guaranteed to deliver big on flavor. Try it today and experience how easily two classic comfort foods can combine into one irresistible dish!
