Craving a cheesesteak but don't have the time for a full-on Philly experience? This Cheesesteak Tortellini Pasta recipe delivers all the satisfying flavors of a classic cheesesteak in a surprisingly quick and easy pasta dish. Perfect for a busy weeknight, this recipe is packed with savory goodness and ready in under 30 minutes! It's a delicious and convenient option for healthy meals and quick dinner ideas, showcasing the best of homemade cooking without the fuss.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound cheese tortellini
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 pound thinly sliced steak (sirloin or ribeye work well)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (or Worcestershire sauce for a richer taste)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 1 cup shredded provolone cheese (or a mix of provolone and mozzarella)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Cook the Tortellini: Cook the tortellini according to package directions. Drain and set aside. Don't overcook; you want them al dente.
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Sauté the Vegetables: While the tortellini cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion and bell pepper and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
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Cook the Steak: Add the sliced steak to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes, breaking it up into smaller pieces with a spoon as it cooks. This helps mimic the texture of a cheesesteak.
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Add Flavor: Stir in the minced garlic, beef broth, soy sauce (or Worcestershire), oregano, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to slightly thicken.
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Combine and Melt: Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet and toss to coat everything evenly in the delicious sauce. Reduce heat to low and stir in the shredded provolone cheese until melted and creamy.
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Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately. This delicious dish is perfect as a satisfying and flavorful dinner.
Cooking Tips for the Best Cheesesteak Tortellini Pasta:
- Thinly sliced steak is key: Thin slices cook quickly and evenly, giving you that classic cheesesteak texture.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Cook the steak in batches if necessary to ensure it browns properly and doesn't steam.
- Adjust the seasonings: Feel free to adjust the amount of soy sauce, oregano, pepper, and red pepper flakes to your liking.
- Cheese variations: Experiment with different cheeses! Monterey Jack, Fontina, or even a sharp cheddar would be delicious additions or substitutes.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on the specific ingredients used, but a general estimate would be around 450-500 calories, with moderate amounts of protein and fat. For a more precise calculation, use an online nutritional calculator with the specific brands of your ingredients.
Variations:
- Add Mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the onions and peppers for an extra layer of flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes, or add a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
- Veggie Cheesesteak: Substitute the steak with grilled portobello mushrooms or other hearty vegetables for a vegetarian option.
This easy recipe offers a quick and delicious meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. It's a great example of simple, healthy meals you can prepare without sacrificing flavor. Enjoy!