I absolutely love comfort food, and this Cheesy Philly Cheesesteak Tortellini Pasta is pure indulgence. It’s a fun twist on the classic Philly cheesesteak, but with soft tortellini pasta soaking up all the savory flavors.
I usually make this dish for cozy weeknight dinners when I want something hearty but quick. It’s also perfect for family gatherings or when I just crave something cheesy and satisfying.
With tender beef, sautéed peppers and onions, and a creamy cheese sauce, it’s impossible to resist. I promise, once you try it, this recipe will become one of your go-to meals.
It’s simple, flavorful, and filling, making it perfect for any day of the week. You don’t need a special occasion to enjoy this pasta, and it’s a crowd-pleaser every single time.
Quick Recipe Info
| Info | Details |
|---|---|
| Servings | 4 |
| Calories | 550 per serving |
| Protein | 28g |
| Carbs | 45g |
| Fat | 28g |
| Gluten-Free | No |
| Vegan | No |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Cuisine | American |
Why You’ll Love this Recipe
This recipe combines two favorites in one dish: pasta and the classic Philly cheesesteak. The creamy cheese sauce coats every tortellini, making each bite rich and satisfying.
Tender strips of beef mixed with sautéed bell peppers and onions give a perfect balance of protein and vegetables. It’s easy to make with simple ingredients you likely already have at home.
Everyone loves the cheesy, savory flavor, making it ideal for family dinners or casual get-togethers. Plus, it reheats wonderfully, so leftovers are just as tasty as the first serving.
Ingredients to Make Philly Cheesesteak Tortellini Pasta
This dish uses fresh vegetables, tender beef, pasta, and a creamy sauce that brings everything together. Each ingredient is chosen to complement the others, ensuring perfect flavor.
- Cheese tortellini (12 oz): Soft and pillowy, perfect for absorbing the sauce.
- Beef strips (1 lb, thinly sliced): Juicy and tender, this is the main protein.
- Bell peppers (1 cup, sliced): Adds sweetness, color, and crunch.
- Onion (1 medium, sliced): Provides savory aroma and slight sweetness.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Adds depth and flavor.
- Olive oil (2 tbsp): Used to sauté beef and vegetables.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): Creates the rich, creamy sauce.
- Shredded provolone or mozzarella (1 cup): Melts into the sauce for cheesy goodness.
- Worcestershire sauce (1 tsp): Adds depth and savory flavor.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential seasoning.
- Fresh parsley (2 tbsp, chopped, optional): Adds freshness and color.
Steps to Make Philly Cheesesteak Tortellini Pasta
Follow these steps carefully to get the perfect balance of creamy pasta and flavorful beef. Each step is simple and easy to follow.
Step 1: Cook the tortellini
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside while you prepare the beef and sauce.
Step 2: Sauté the beef
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef strips, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 4–5 minutes until browned. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the vegetables
In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil. Sauté bell peppers and onions for 5–6 minutes until softened and slightly caramelized. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Make the creamy sauce
Lower the heat to medium and pour in the heavy cream. Slowly stir in shredded cheese until melted and smooth. Add Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper, mixing well to combine all flavors.
Step 5: Combine pasta, beef, and sauce
Return the cooked beef to the skillet with vegetables and sauce. Add drained tortellini and toss gently to coat everything evenly. Ensure every tortellini is covered in the creamy sauce.
Step 6: Garnish and serve
Sprinkle fresh parsley over the pasta before serving for color and freshness. Serve immediately while warm and creamy for the best taste.
Serving Suggestions
This Philly Cheesesteak Tortellini Pasta is best served hot straight from the skillet. I like to pair it with a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the cheese sauce.
A side of garlic bread or toasted baguette works beautifully to scoop up the creamy sauce. You can also serve it with a sprinkle of extra shredded cheese on top for an indulgent touch.
For a lighter option, roasted or steamed vegetables such as broccoli or asparagus make a great accompaniment. You can also add a few cherry tomatoes for color and freshness.
If you’re serving it to kids or picky eaters, a side of simple carrot sticks or cucumber slices can complement the dish well. This meal is versatile and fits perfectly for lunch or dinner occasions.
Meal Prep Tips: Can We Make Philly Cheesesteak Tortellini Pasta in Advance?
Yes, this dish can be made in advance, which is perfect if you like preparing meals ahead. Cook the pasta and beef mixture completely, then allow it to cool slightly before storing.
Store the pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I usually keep the sauce separate if I want to avoid the tortellini soaking too much overnight.
When ready to serve, reheat on the stovetop over low-medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Adding a splash of milk or cream while reheating restores the creamy texture perfectly.
This makes it an excellent option for busy weeknight dinners. You can also prepare the vegetables in advance and sauté them fresh just before combining with pasta.
Cooking Tips
Use fresh ingredients whenever possible, especially bell peppers and onions, to enhance flavor. I always slice the beef thinly to ensure it cooks quickly and stays tender.
Avoid overcooking the tortellini because it will continue to cook slightly when combined with the sauce. It’s better to slightly undercook it so the final texture remains perfect.
When making the sauce, add the cheese gradually and stir continuously to prevent it from clumping. Using a mix of provolone and mozzarella gives a creamy, gooey texture that’s irresistible.
Season each layer – the beef, vegetables, and sauce – to build depth of flavor. Taste and adjust salt and pepper at every stage to ensure the final dish is perfectly seasoned.
Variations of Philly Cheesesteak Tortellini Pasta
You can make this dish spicier by adding sliced jalapeños or a dash of crushed red pepper flakes. I sometimes add mushrooms for extra texture and umami flavor.
For a low-carb version, substitute tortellini with zucchini noodles or cauliflower gnocchi. You can also switch the beef for thinly sliced chicken or turkey for a lighter protein option.
Cheese choices can vary; sharp cheddar or smoked gouda gives a different but delicious flavor profile. You can even make it extra cheesy by topping with Parmesan before serving.
Adding fresh herbs like basil or thyme can enhance the flavor further. The dish is versatile and can be customized to suit your taste preferences without losing its core cheesesteak essence.
Storage Instructions
Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to 3 days and retains its creamy flavor when properly reheated.
You can also freeze the pasta for longer storage, up to 2 months. Make sure to slightly undercook the tortellini if freezing to prevent it from becoming mushy.
When freezing, separate the sauce from the pasta if possible for best results. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Always stir the pasta during reheating to ensure the sauce is evenly warmed. This keeps the creamy consistency intact and prevents the dish from drying out.
Can We Reheat Philly Cheesesteak Tortellini Pasta?
Yes, this dish reheats very well, which is why it’s ideal for meal prep. I recommend reheating on the stovetop over medium-low heat while stirring occasionally.
Add a little milk or cream to the pasta while reheating to restore the creamy texture. This prevents the sauce from thickening too much and keeps the tortellini soft.
You can also reheat in the microwave using a microwave-safe dish. Cover loosely and heat in short intervals, stirring between each, to ensure even heating.
If reheating from frozen, thaw in the refrigerator first for best results. The pasta will retain its flavor and texture almost as well as freshly cooked.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes, frozen tortellini works perfectly. Just cook according to package instructions and adjust the sauce quantity if needed.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute beef with sautéed mushrooms or plant-based meat alternatives. Use vegetarian Worcestershire sauce for authenticity.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Not with regular tortellini, but gluten-free tortellini works just as well. Make sure to check other ingredients like Worcestershire sauce for gluten content.
Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
Yes, pre-shredded cheese is convenient, but freshly shredded cheese melts better and gives a creamier sauce.
How spicy is this dish?
Mild by default, but you can add jalapeños or red pepper flakes to increase heat. Adjust according to your taste preference.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, store in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. Slightly undercook the tortellini for best results.
Can I use chicken instead of beef?
Yes, thinly sliced chicken works well and cooks slightly faster. Season it well to match the cheesesteak flavor.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Philly Cheesesteak Tortellini Pasta is a perfect combination of comfort, flavor, and convenience. The tender beef, sautéed vegetables, and creamy cheese sauce make every bite irresistible.
It’s a versatile dish that works for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or meal prep for the week. You can customize the protein, cheese, and vegetables to suit your taste.
Reheating and storing is simple, making it perfect for busy schedules. Once you make it, you’ll see why this recipe becomes a favorite in your household.
It’s indulgent yet easy, rich in flavor, and satisfying for everyone. Give it a try, and you’ll understand why it’s a perfect blend of Philly cheesesteak and comforting pasta.
