Description
This Crock Pot Cheesesteak Tortellini recipe combines tender, slow-cooked beef with flavorful peppers, onions, and mushrooms, all simmered in a rich, creamy cheese sauce. The addition of tender cheese tortellini makes this meal comforting, hearty, and perfect for an easy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
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 Seasonings
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt (to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Cheese and Pasta
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or provolone)
- 20 ounces cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
Garnish
- Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Brown the beef (optional): Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the shaved beef or ground beef until lightly browned. Drain excess fat to reduce grease in the final dish.
- Layer ingredients in Crock Pot: Place the browned beef, sliced onions, peppers, mushrooms, beef broth, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper into 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 the softened cream cheese into the slow cooker until it melts completely, creating a smooth, creamy sauce. Add the shredded mozzarella or provolone and mix thoroughly until melted and combined.
- Add tortellini: Stir in the cheese tortellini during the last 20 to 30 minutes of cooking. Continue cooking until the tortellini are tender but still hold their shape well, avoiding mushiness.
- Finish and serve: For extra cheesiness, top with additional shredded cheese if desired. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving for a burst of color and fresh flavor.
Notes
- Browning the beef beforehand is optional but helps enhance the flavor and texture.
- Feel free to use any type of cheese tortellini; fresh tortellini will cook faster than frozen.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can reduce the beef broth slightly or simmer the sauce with the lid off for the last 15 minutes.
- This recipe can be adapted to use ground beef or sliced steak depending on preference and availability.
- For a spicier variation, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes with the seasonings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Crock Pot, Cheesesteak, Tortellini, Slow Cooker, Beef, Comfort Food, Easy Dinner, Creamy Pasta
