Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce

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If you’re craving a hearty, cheesy dish that combines the flavors of a classic cheesesteak with the comforting goodness of tortellini, the Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce Crockpot Recipe is the perfect meal for you! This easy-to-make crockpot recipe offers a deliciously rich and creamy dish with minimal effort. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a gathering, this cheesesteak tortellini will surely be a crowd-pleaser.

What Makes This Dish Special: Cheesesteak Tortellini Crockpot Recipe

The Cheesesteak Tortellini Crockpot Recipe combines the savory flavors of a traditional cheesesteak with the smooth texture of cheese-filled tortellini. The real star, however, is the rich provolone sauce that ties everything together, making each bite indulgent and creamy. Unlike traditional cheesesteak sandwiches, this recipe transforms the classic into a comforting, hearty dish that’s both easy to prepare and satisfying. Cooking it in a crockpot ensures the beef becomes tender and the sauce develops deep, mouthwatering flavors over time.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and the magic of slow cooking. Not only does the crockpot make preparation effortless, but it also enhances the flavors of every ingredient. For more tips on achieving the perfect slow-cooked meal, explore this helpful guide about crockpot cooking techniques.

Why Use a Crockpot for This Recipe?

A crockpot, also known as a slow cooker, is a fantastic tool for making this cheesesteak tortellini dish. The slow cooking process helps to bring out the best in your ingredients, allowing the flavors to blend and intensify. The beef becomes meltingly tender, and the creamy provolone sauce thickens into a velvety consistency. Slow cooking also means you can set the dish to cook and walk away, making it a perfect option for busy families or people who don’t want to hover over the stove.

For more information on how to get the most out of your crockpot, check out this guide on crockpot tips, which can help you achieve the perfect slow-cooked meals every time.

Key Ingredients for Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce Crockpot Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need for this mouthwatering dish:

1 lb beef steak (flank steak or sirloin), thinly sliced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, thinly sliced
1 bell pepper, thinly sliced (optional)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1 cup beef broth
1 ½ cups heavy cream
8 oz provolone cheese, shredded
1 package (about 9 oz) cheese tortellini (frozen or fresh)
2 tbsp butter
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (optional)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

These ingredients work together to create a creamy, rich dish with bold flavors that will leave everyone satisfied.

Choosing the Right Beef

When selecting beef for this dish, it’s important to choose a cut that will cook well in the crockpot. Ribeye and flank steak are both great options, as they are tender and flavorful. Ribeye, in particular, will give you a juicy, well-marbled texture, while flank steak is leaner but still tender when slow-cooked. For a detailed guide on the best beef cuts for slow cooking, check out this resource on beef cuts.

Tortellini and Provolone Cheese

The tortellini in this dish can be either fresh or frozen, depending on what’s available to you. You can also experiment with different types of tortellini, such as cheese-filled or meat-filled, depending on your preference.

For the sauce, provolone cheese is the perfect choice. It melts beautifully and creates a creamy, rich texture that complements the beef and tortellini perfectly. You can explore more about the different varieties of provolone cheese and how it adds flavor to dishes in this cheese variety guide.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce Crockpot Recipe

Making Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce in a crockpot is simple and rewarding. The creamy, cheesy sauce and tender beef combined with the soft tortellini make this dish a comfort food favorite. Follow these easy steps to prepare your meal:

Step 1: Prepare the Beef and Vegetables

Heat the Olive Oil: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
Cook the Beef: Add 1 lb of thinly sliced beef steak (flank steak or sirloin) to the skillet.
Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of butter. Sauté 1 thinly sliced onion, 1 thinly sliced bell pepper (optional), and 2 minced garlic cloves until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. These vegetables will add sweetness and depth of flavor to the dish.

Step 2: Make the Rich Provolone Sauce

Prepare the Roux: In a separate saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of flour to make a roux and cook for 2-3 minutes, whisking constantly to avoid burning.
Add the Cream: Gradually pour in 1 ½ cups of heavy cream while whisking continuously. Allow the mixture to simmer for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Stir in Provolone Cheese: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 1 cup of shredded provolone cheese. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Ste p 3: Slow Cook the Dish

Transfer to the Crockpot: Add the cooked beef, sautéed vegetables, and creamy provolone sauce into the crockpot.
Add Beef Broth: Pour 1 cup of beef broth into the crockpot and stir to combine all the ingredients. This helps to create a flavorful base for the dish.
Set the Crockpot: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours. The beef will become tender, and the flavors will meld together beautifully during this time.

Stp 4: Add the Tortellini

Add Tortellini: About 30 minutes before serving, add 1 package (about 9 oz) of cheese tortellini to the crockpot. Stir gently to ensure the tortellini is coated with the sauce.
Cook the Tortellini: Let the tortellini cook for 20-25 minutes, or until it becomes tender. Make sure not to overcook it, as tortellini can become too soft if left in the sauce for too long.

S.tep 5: Serve and Enjoy

Final Touches: Once the tortellini is cooked and everything is heated through, stir everything one last time.
Garnish: Serve the cheesesteak tortellini in bowls and garnish with fresh parsley and extra shredded provolone cheese for added richness and flavor.
Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed hot, with a side of garlic bread or salad.

By following this simple step-by-step guide, you’ll create a flavorful, creamy, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

Tips for the BestCheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce Crockpot Recipe

To ensure that your Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce turns out perfectly every time, here are some essential tips that will elevate your dish to the next level:

1. Choose the Right Beef

Quality Matters: Use a tender cut of beef like ribeye or flank steak. These cuts are perfect for slow cooking because they remain juicy and tender. Ribeye has great marbling, while flank steak is leaner but still works wonderfully in the crockpot.
Slicing Tip: For the best texture, slice the beef thinly against the grain. This will ensure that it remains tender after slow cooking.

2. Don’t Overcook the Beef

Timing is Key: While the crockpot does most of the work, it’s important not to overcook the beef. Overcooking can make it tough. Set your crockpot on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours for the best results.
Tenderness Check: Before adding the tortellini, check if the beef is fork-tender. If it is, it’s ready for the next step!

3. Use Fresh or Frozen Tortellini

Fresh Tortellini: If you’re using fresh tortellini, it will cook faster and absorb the sauce better. Add it closer to the end of the cooking time to keep it from getting too soft.
Frozen Tortellini: If you prefer frozen tortellini, no need to thaw it before adding to the crockpot. Just toss it in about 30 minutes before serving.

4. Don’t Skip the Provolone Sauce

Make It Creamy: The key to a creamy, smooth sauce is slowly melting the provolone cheese into the cream. Stir constantly to ensure it melts evenly without any clumps.
Season Well: Season your sauce with salt and pepper as you go. Provolone can be a little mild, so taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

5. Stir Occasionally in the Crockpot

Prevent Burning: Stir the ingredients occasionally, especially towards the end of cooking, to ensure nothing sticks to the bottom of the crockpot. If your sauce thickens too much, you can always add a little more beef broth or cream to loosen it up.

6. Enhance the Flavor with Add-ins

Add Spices: For a little extra flavor, you can add garlic powder, onion powder, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
Vegetable Options: Add extra vegetables like mushrooms or spinach to the mix for added nutrients and flavor. These will cook down nicely in the sauce, infusing everything with a deeper taste.

7. Make It Spicy

Spicy Twist: If you like a bit of heat, consider adding some jalapeños or cayenne pepper to the dish. You can either sauté them with the beef and vegetables or stir them into the sauce for a more intense flavor.

8. Use a Good Beef Broth

Flavorful Base: The beef broth you use will impact the flavor of the dish. Choose a high-quality broth or even make your own if you have the time. It adds depth to the sauce and helps tenderize the beef.

9. Add Cheese on Top

Extra Cheese: After serving, sprinkle some additional shredded provolone or parmesan cheese on top. This will give the dish an extra cheesy kick and melt beautifully over the hot pasta.

10. Garnish for a Fresh Touch

Fresh Parsley: Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and a hint of freshness. It adds a nice contrast to the richness of the dish.
Additional Toppings: Consider adding a few crumbles of crispy bacon for extra flavor or even some fresh mozzarella for an indulgent twist.

Bonus Tip: Customize the Dish

Make It Your Own: Don’t be afraid to experiment! Try using different types of cheese like mozzarella or cheddar, or swap the beef for chicken or ground turkey for a lighter option.

By following these tips, you’ll be able to create a Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce that’s full of flavor, creamy, and satisfying every time!

Frequently Asked Questions Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce Crockpot Recipe (FAQs)

1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute mozzarella, cheddar, or Gruyère for provolone, depending on your preference.

Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce – Crockpot Recipe

If you’re craving a creamy, hearty, and savory pasta dish, this Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce made in the crockpot is a must-try. This dish combines tender tortellini with the flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak, all brought together by a velvety provolone sauce.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Cheesesteak Tortellini:

1 pound ground beef or shaved steak
1 medium onion, diced
1 green bell pepper, chopped
3 cups beef broth
2 cups provolone cheese, shredded
1 package (20 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini

Optional Add-Ins:

Mushrooms for extra texture
Red pepper flakes for a hint of spice

For additional ideas on preparing flavorful beef, check out the Simple Ground Beef Bulgogi Recipe for inspiration.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meat and Vegetables

Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet until fully cooked. Add the onions and bell peppers, cooking until softened. For time-saving tips, see Can You Slow Cook Beef in 3 Hours?.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot

Transfer the cooked beef and vegetables into a crockpot. Add the beef broth, shredded provolone cheese, and tortellini. Stir until evenly mixed.

Step 3: Cook on Low Heat

Set the crockpot to low and cook for 3-4 hours, stirring occasionally. For best results, use fresh tortellini to ensure the perfect texture.

Tips for Success

Balance Flavors: Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, and consider adding a dash of Worcestershire sauce for depth.
Prevent Overcooking: Add the tortellini during the last hour of cooking to avoid mushy pasta.
Serve Fresh: Garnish with fresh parsley or additional shredded provolone for presentation.

Nutritional Information

This recipe serves 6 and includes:

Calories: 450 per serving
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 40g

For another hearty crockpot meal, explore the Baked Beans with Ground Beef Recipe for more inspiration.

Storing and Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of beef broth to maintain creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes, but you may need to increase cooking time slightly.

2. Can I substitute provolone cheese?
Absolutely!

3. What can I serve with Cheesesteak Tortellini?
Serve with garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

For other creative pasta dishes, see Philly Cheesesteak Tortellini Recipes for additional ideas.

Conclusion

This Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce is a crowd-pleasing recipe perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Furthermore, it’s easy to customize and even easier to prepare in your crockpot. Pair it with complementary side dishes or desserts for a truly satisfying meal.

Ready to try something new? Explore more recipes like this at Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce – Easy & Delicious Recipe for additional variations!

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Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce – Easy Crockpot Recipe