Crock Pot Cheesesteak Tortellini Recipe
This Crock Pot Cheesesteak Tortellini recipe combines tender shaved beef, sautéed vegetables, and creamy cheeses over cheesy tortellini, slow-cooked to perfection for a hearty, comforting meal. Ideal for busy days, it requires minimal prep and fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 to 7 hours on low or 3 to 4 hours on high
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes to 7 hours 15 minutes (low) or 3 hours 15 minutes to 4 hours 15 minutes (high)
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Beef 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
Cheeses and Pasta
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or provolone)
- 20 ounces cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
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 to reduce greasiness.
- Layer ingredients in Crock Pot: Place the browned beef, sliced onions, bell peppers, mushrooms (if using), beef broth, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper into the slow cooker. Stir gently to combine all components 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 vegetables are fully cooked through.
- Make the sauce creamy: Stir in the softened cream cheese until it melts completely, creating a smooth sauce. Then add the shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese and mix thoroughly until well incorporated.
- Add tortellini: Add the cheese tortellini to the slow cooker in the last 20 to 30 minutes of cooking. Stir occasionally and cook until the tortellini is tender but still holds its shape without becoming mushy.
- Finish and serve: If desired, top with extra shredded cheese and garnish with chopped fresh parsley just before serving for a fresh, vibrant touch.
Notes
- Browning the beef before adding to the crock pot is optional but enhances flavor and texture.
- You can substitute different cheeses like provolone or even a mix for varied flavors.
- Fresh tortellini cooks faster than frozen; adjust the last cooking time accordingly.
- For a spicier twist, add red pepper flakes to the seasoning.
- Always check seasoning towards the end and adjust salt and pepper to taste.
- This recipe is perfect for making ahead; flavors meld nicely when reheated.
Keywords: Crock Pot, Cheesesteak, Tortellini, Slow Cooker, Comfort Food, Easy Dinner, Beef Recipe, Creamy Pasta
