Crock Pot Cheesesteak Tortellini Recipe
Introduction
This Crock Pot Cheesesteak Tortellini recipe brings the classic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak into a comforting pasta dish. It’s easy to prepare, with tender beef, creamy cheese sauce, and tender tortellini cooked all together in a slow cooker.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds shaved beef steak (or ribeye, sirloin, or ground beef)
- 1 large onion (sliced)
- 2 bell peppers (sliced; green or mixed colors)
- 8 ounces mushrooms (sliced; optional)
- 3 cups beef broth
- 8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or provolone)
- 20 ounces cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt (to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley (for garnish; optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Brown the beef (optional) by heating a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the shaved beef or ground beef until lightly browned, then drain any excess fat.
- Step 2: Layer the ingredients in your Crock Pot. Add the beef, sliced onions, bell peppers, mushrooms (if using), beef broth, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir gently to combine everything.
- Step 3: Cover and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the beef and vegetables are tender.
- Step 4: Stir in the softened cream cheese until melted and smooth. Then add the shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese and mix well to make the sauce creamy.
- Step 5: Add the cheese tortellini during the last 20 to 30 minutes of cooking. Cook until the pasta is tender but still holds its shape, avoiding overcooking.
- Step 6: Finish by topping with extra cheese if desired and garnish with fresh parsley before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
Tips & Variations
- For richer flavor, choose ribeye or sirloin over ground beef, or try a mix of both.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes along with the seasonings.
- Mushrooms are optional but add great earthiness and texture.
- Use fresh tortellini if possible; frozen works well but may require slightly less cooking time.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth or water if the sauce has thickened too much.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta instead of tortellini?
Yes, you can substitute cheese tortellini with other stuffed pasta like ravioli, or even bite-sized pasta like penne. Adjust cooking time accordingly to avoid overcooking.
Is it necessary to brown the beef before adding it to the Crock Pot?
While optional, browning the beef first enhances the flavor and texture of the dish by adding a caramelized depth that slow cooking alone may not achieve.
PrintCrock Pot Cheesesteak Tortellini Recipe
This Crock Pot Cheesesteak Tortellini is a hearty and comforting one-pot meal combining tender beef, sautéed vegetables, creamy cheese sauce, and cheesy tortellini. Perfect for an easy, make-ahead dinner that delivers classic Philly cheesesteak flavors with a delightful pasta twist.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours 30 minutes
- Total Time: 6 hours 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 ½ pounds shaved beef steak (or ribeye, sirloin, or ground beef)
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 2 bell peppers, sliced (green or mixed colors)
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced (optional)
Liquids and Dairy
- 3 cups beef broth
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or provolone)
Pasta and Seasonings
- 20 ounces cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt (to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Garnish
- Fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Brown the beef (optional): Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the shaved beef or ground beef until lightly browned. Drain any excess fat before transferring beef to the slow cooker.
- Layer ingredients in Crock Pot: Add the browned beef, sliced onions, bell peppers, mushrooms, beef broth, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to the slow cooker. Stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
- Make the sauce creamy: Stir in softened cream cheese until fully melted and smooth within the mixture. Add shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese and mix well to combine the creamy cheese sauce.
- Add tortellini: Stir in the cheese tortellini during the last 20 to 30 minutes of cooking. Continue cooking until the pasta is tender but still holds its shape and isn’t mushy.
- Finish and serve: Optionally top with extra cheese, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Serve warm for a comforting meal.
Notes
- Browning the beef beforehand is optional but adds extra flavor and texture.
- You can use fresh or frozen tortellini; fresh may cook a bit faster.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute beef broth with vegetable broth and omit the meat.
- Mushrooms are optional and can be omitted based on preference.
- Adjust salt and seasoning according to taste, especially if using salted broth.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Keywords: Crock Pot Cheesesteak, Cheesesteak Tortellini, Slow Cooker Recipes, Comfort Food, Easy Dinner
