Philly cheesesteak tortellini combines the rich, savory flavors of the iconic Philly cheesesteak with the delightful bite of cheese-filled tortellini. This comforting and hearty dish brings together tender steak, sautéed onions and peppers, and creamy cheese sauce over perfectly cooked tortellini. It’s an easy, one-pan meal that’s perfect for dinner or impressing guests.
In this article, we’ll guide you through how to make the best Philly cheesesteak tortellini, from preparing the steak to making the creamy cheese sauce that ties everything together.
Why You’ll Love Philly Cheesesteak Tortellini
- A Flavorful Twist: It combines the classic, beloved flavors of a Philly cheesesteak with the creamy, cheesy texture of tortellini.
- Comfort Food: The rich, savory sauce and tender steak make this dish incredibly comforting and satisfying.
- Quick and Easy: It’s a one-pan meal that’s quick to prepare and perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.
- Kid-Friendly: The cheesy goodness of this dish is sure to be a hit with the whole family.
Table of contents
Ingredients for Philly Cheesesteak Tortellini
To make the perfect Philly cheesesteak tortellini, you’ll need a combination of fresh ingredients that bring together the best of Philly cheesesteak and tortellini flavors. Here’s everything you’ll need to create this delicious dish:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Steak (ribeye or flank steak) | 1 lb (450g) | The main protein for the dish. Ribeye offers tenderness, but flank steak is a leaner option. |
| Cheese tortellini | 12 oz (340g) | The pasta base of the dish, creamy and delicious when combined with the cheese sauce. |
| Onions | 1 large | Adds sweetness and depth of flavor to the dish. |
| Bell peppers (green and red) | 1 each | For sweetness and color, they add texture and balance to the dish. |
| Garlic | 2 cloves | Adds aromatic flavor and depth. |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup | Creates the creamy, rich cheese sauce that ties the dish together. |
| Cream cheese | 4 oz (120g) | Adds richness and helps create a creamy texture. |
| Provolone cheese | 1 cup (shredded) | Traditional cheese used in Philly cheesesteaks, melted into the sauce for a gooey finish. |
| Mozzarella cheese | 1/2 cup (shredded) | Adds extra creaminess and meltiness to the sauce. |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon | For sautéing the steak and vegetables. |
| Soy sauce | 1 tablespoon | Adds depth and umami to the steak marinade. |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | Seasoning to balance and enhance the overall flavor. |
Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor
- Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms can add an earthy depth to the dish.
- Hot sauce: If you like a little heat, a dash of hot sauce can spice up the cheese sauce.
- Parsley: Fresh parsley can be sprinkled on top for a burst of color and freshness.
Ingredient Notes
- Steak: Ribeye is the traditional choice for Philly cheesesteaks due to its marbling and tenderness. Flank steak or sirloin are also great options, but they are leaner cuts.
- Tortellini: Choose cheese-filled tortellini for the creamiest texture. If you prefer, you can use spinach and cheese tortellini or another filling.
- Cheese: Provolone is the classic cheese for Philly cheesesteaks, but mozzarella also adds a stretchy, melty texture. You can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar for a twist.
How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Tortellini
Creating the perfect Philly cheesesteak tortellini is simple and quick. Follow these easy steps to combine the savory, cheesy goodness of Philly cheesesteak with the creamy texture of tortellini for a meal that’s sure to please.
1. Prepare the Steak
- Slice the steak: Thinly slice your ribeye (or chosen cut) against the grain into strips. This helps the steak stay tender and cook quickly.
- Season the steak: Toss the steak strips in soy sauce, salt, and pepper to enhance flavor. Let it marinate for about 10 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.
2. Cook the Tortellini
- Boil the pasta: In a large pot of salted water, cook the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions (typically about 3-5 minutes for fresh tortellini).
- Drain the pasta: Once cooked, drain the tortellini, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water. Set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables and Steak
- Cook the onions and peppers: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onions and bell peppers. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until they soften and become caramelized. Stir occasionally to avoid burning.
- Add the garlic: Once the vegetables are tender, add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Cook the steak: Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet and add the marinated steak strips to the other. Sear the steak for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned but still tender.
4. Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce
- Prepare the sauce: In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the heavy cream and cream cheese. Stir until the cream cheese is fully melted into the sauce, creating a creamy texture.
- Add the cheeses: Stir in the shredded provolone and mozzarella cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Adjust the consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to loosen it to your desired consistency. Add more salt and pepper if needed.
5. Combine the Philly Cheesesteak Tortellini and Sauce
- Add the pasta: Gently fold the cooked tortellini into the cheese sauce, making sure each piece is evenly coated with the creamy mixture. Let the pasta cook in the sauce for about 2-3 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Stir gently: Mix in the sautéed steak, onions, and peppers. Stir everything together, ensuring the steak and vegetables are evenly distributed throughout the pasta and sauce.
6. Serve and Enjoy
- Plate the dish: Once everything is mixed together and heated through, serve the Philly cheesesteak tortellini hot. Garnish with extra cheese or a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a burst of color.
- Optional toppings: For added flavor, you can top with a few crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat or serve with a side of garlic bread for a complete meal.
Tips for Perfect Philly Cheesesteak Tortellini
To ensure your Philly cheesesteak tortellini turns out perfectly every time, here are some helpful tips to enhance the flavor, texture, and overall experience of this comforting dish:
1. Use Quality Steak
- Choose tender cuts: For the best results, use ribeye or flank steak. Ribeye is the traditional choice for a Philly cheesesteak because of its marbling and tenderness. Flank steak is a leaner option but still works well if you prefer less fat.
- Slice against the grain: When slicing the steak, make sure to cut against the grain to ensure it remains tender.
2. Don’t Overcook the Steak
- Cook quickly: The steak in this dish should be cooked just until it’s browned but still tender. Overcooking can lead to tough, chewy steak. It only takes about 3-4 minutes in the pan.
- Rest the steak: Let the steak rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute. This helps keep the meat juicy and flavorful.
3. Customize the Cheese Sauce
- Add more cheese: Feel free to add Parmesan cheese or cheddar cheese to the sauce for an extra creamy texture and a sharper flavor.
- Adjust the creaminess: If you prefer a thicker sauce, reduce the heavy cream a bit, or if you want it lighter, add some milk to adjust the consistency.
4. Choose the Right Tortellini
- Cheese-filled tortellini: While cheese tortellini is the traditional choice, you can also use spinach and cheese tortellini for extra flavor and color.
- Cook al dente: Be sure to cook the tortellini until it’s just al dente, as overcooking can result in mushy pasta that won’t hold up in the creamy sauce.
5. Add Extra Veggies for More Texture
- Bell peppers: While green and red bell peppers are traditional, you can also add mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Caramelize onions: Let the onions cook slowly to bring out their natural sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
6. Don’t Skip the Garnish
- Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil on top adds a burst of freshness and a pop of color that balances out the richness of the cheese sauce.
- Cheese topping: For extra indulgence, top your finished dish with more shredded provolone or mozzarella and allow it to melt just before serving.
7. Make Cheesesteak Tortellini Ahead
- Meal prep: If you’re short on time, you can make this dish ahead of time. Assemble everything, store it in an airtight container, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, heat the dish on the stovetop and add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.
8. Pair Philly Cheesesteak Tortellini with a Side
- Garlic bread: Serve your Philly cheesesteak tortellini with a side of garlic bread or a crusty baguette to soak up any leftover sauce.
- Green salad: A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette is a great way to balance the richness of the tortellini and add a refreshing crunch.
Frequently Asked Questions About Philly Cheesesteak Tortellini
How Do You Know When Cheese Tortellini Is Done?
To ensure that your cheese tortellini is cooked perfectly:
- Cook time: Fresh cheese tortellini usually takes about 3-5 minutes to cook in boiling water. Be sure to follow the package instructions, as cooking times may vary.
- Check for doneness: The tortellini is ready when it floats to the surface of the water and feels tender when gently pressed. If you’re unsure, cut one in half to check that the filling is hot and the pasta is al dente (firm to the bite).
What Makes a Philly Cheesesteak Authentic?
An authentic Philly cheesesteak is made with a few key ingredients:
- Beef: Thinly sliced ribeye steak, which is tender and full of flavor, is the traditional choice.
- Cheese: Cheese Whiz, American cheese, or provolone are the classic cheeses used to melt over the steak.
- Bread: A hoagie roll or Amoroso roll (a soft, slightly crusty roll from Philadelphia) is the traditional bread choice, helping to hold all the ingredients together.
- Onions and Peppers: Sautéed onions, and sometimes bell peppers, are added for flavor, but authentic Philly cheesesteaks often focus on the beef and cheese.
- Serving style: The sandwich is typically served warm, with the cheese melted into the steak for a gooey, indulgent experience.
How Long Will a Philly Cheesesteak Last in the Fridge?
If you have leftover Philly cheesesteak, here’s how to store it:
- Refrigeration: Leftover Philly cheesesteaks can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the leftovers in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, or use the microwave, though the bread may lose its crispiness. If you’re reheating the steak separately, consider adding a little butter to keep it moist.
What Is Tortellini Traditionally Filled With?
Traditional tortellini is an Italian pasta typically filled with a variety of ingredients:
- Cheese: The classic filling for cheese tortellini is a mixture of ricotta and Parmesan cheese, often with a touch of nutmeg for flavor.
- Meat: Meat-filled tortellini can be stuffed with pork, beef, or a mixture of both, often combined with Parmesan and seasonings.
- Spinach: In some variations, spinach is mixed with the cheese or meat to add extra flavor and color. Tortellini is often served in a rich broth or paired with sauces like pesto, cream, or tomato-based sauces.
Conclusion
Philly cheesesteak tortellini brings together the best of both worlds—tender steak, creamy cheese, and savory vegetables in a comforting, one-pan meal. This twist on the classic Philly cheesesteak is a satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to special gatherings. The creamy sauce, cheesy tortellini, and savory steak combine to create a rich, flavorful dish that everyone will love.
By following the simple steps and tips in this article, you can make a delicious Philly cheesesteak tortellini that’s creamy, hearty, and full of flavor. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients, and don’t forget to garnish it with fresh herbs for an extra burst of flavor.