why make this recipe
This Crock Pot Cheesesteak Tortellini is easy, warm, and full of flavor. It cooks slowly so the beef stays tender and the sauce stays creamy. If you like slow cooker meals and want more ideas for chilly days, see these slow cooker soup recipes for fall for more simple comfort food.
introduction
This recipe mixes classic cheesesteak flavors with cheese-filled tortellini for a quick family meal. You put everything in the slow cooker and let it cook until the beef is soft and the sauce is rich. If you enjoy creamy slow cooker dishes, you might also like this Crockpot loaded baked potato soup as another cozy option.
how to make Crock Pot Cheesesteak Tortellini
This dish is mostly hands-off. First, layer the meat and vegetables in the slow cooker. Then pour the cream and broth mix over them and cook until the beef is tender. For a similar creamy base idea, check this Copycat Outback potato soup to see how cream and broth make a smooth sauce. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the tortellini and finish with cheese.
Ingredients :
1 lb beef (sliced thin)
1 bell pepper (sliced)
1 onion (sliced)
1 cup mushrooms (sliced)
1 package (20 oz) tortellini (cheese-filled)
1 cup cream
1 cup beef broth
1 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheese (like provolone or mozzarella)
Directions :
- In the slow cooker, add the sliced beef, bell pepper, onion, and mushrooms.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the cream, beef broth, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Pour this mixture over the beef and vegetables in the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the tortellini.
- Once the tortellini is cooked through, stir in the shredded cheese until melted.
- Serve warm.
how to serve Crock Pot Cheesesteak Tortellini
Serve it hot in bowls. Add extra shredded cheese or a pinch of black pepper on top. A side salad or crusty bread works well. For a smoky side idea, try pairing with a rich soup like this creamy bacon potato soup.
how to store Crock Pot Cheesesteak Tortellini
Let the dish cool to room temperature, then put it in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if it looks thick. For tips on reheating thicker slow cooker dishes, see this high protein loaded potato soup guide.
tips to make Crock Pot Cheesesteak Tortellini
- Slice the beef thin so it cooks tender in the slow cooker.
- Do not add tortellini too early; it will get mushy.
- Taste and season salt and pepper at the end.
- Use provolone for classic cheesesteak flavor or mozzarella for milder taste.
- If sauce is too thin, remove the lid and cook on high for 15-20 minutes to thicken.
variation (if any)
- Use chicken instead of beef for a different protein.
- Add hot peppers or red pepper flakes for heat.
- Swap cream for half-and-half to lighten the sauce.
- Use frozen tortellini but add a few extra minutes to cooking time.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen tortellini?
A: Yes. Add frozen tortellini about 30-40 minutes before serving and check for doneness.
Q: Can I make this on the stove instead?
A: Yes. Brown the beef and vegetables in a pan, add the cream and broth, simmer until tender, then stir in tortellini and cheese.
Q: Can I use a different cheese?
A: Yes. Provolone or mozzarella work best, but cheddar or Swiss will also be fine.
Q: Is this dish freezer-safe?
A: The cooked tortellini can get soft after freezing. You can freeze the beef and sauce separately and add fresh tortellini when reheating.
Q: How can I make it less rich?
A: Use half-and-half or milk instead of cream and reduce the cheese amount.
Crock Pot Cheesesteak Tortellini
Ingredients
Method
- In the slow cooker, add the sliced beef, bell pepper, onion, and mushrooms.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the cream, beef broth, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Pour this mixture over the beef and vegetables in the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the tortellini.
- Once the tortellini is cooked through, stir in the shredded cheese until melted.
- Serve it hot in bowls. Add extra shredded cheese or a pinch of black pepper on top.