1. Cook the Tortellini: The Cheesy Pasta Component

1. Boil Water: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
2. Add Tortellini: Add the fresh cheese tortellini to the boiling water.
3. Cook Until Al Dente: Cook the tortellini according to the package directions, usually about 5-7 minutes, until they are “al dente” – cooked through but still firm to the bite.
4. Drain: Drain the cooked tortellini in a colander and set aside.

2. Sauté the Vegetables: Building the Flavor Base

1. Heat Oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add Onions and Peppers: Add the sliced onions and bell peppers to the skillet.
3. Sauté: Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and lightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Remove from Skillet: Remove the sautéed vegetables from the skillet and set them aside.

3. Cook the Beef: Searing for Flavor

1. Season Beef: Season the thinly sliced beef with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Sear Beef: In the same skillet, sear the beef strips in a single layer over medium-high heat until they are browned and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side. Work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan.
   • Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan, or the beef will steam instead of sear.
3. Remove from Skillet: Remove the cooked beef from the skillet and set it aside with the vegetables.

4. Prepare the Provolone Sauce: Creamy, Cheesy Goodness

1. Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet (no need to clean it first) and sauté over medium heat for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
2. Add Broth and Cream Cheese: Pour the beef broth into the skillet. Add the softened cream cheese and whisk until the cream cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
3. Melt Provolone: Reduce the heat to low and gradually add the shredded provolone cheese, stirring constantly until it’s fully melted and incorporated into the sauce.

5. Combine Ingredients: Bringing Everything Together

1. Return Vegetables and Beef: Return the sautéed vegetables and cooked beef to the skillet with the provolone sauce.
2. Stir to Coat: Stir everything together until the vegetables and beef are evenly coated with the sauce.
3. Simmer: Let the mixture simmer over low heat for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

6. Toss with Tortellini: The Final Step

1. Add Tortellini: Add the cooked and drained tortellini to the skillet with the beef, vegetables, and sauce.
2. Fold Gently: Gently fold the tortellini into the mixture, ensuring that all the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
3. Serve: Serve the Creamy Provolone Cheesesteak Tortellini immediately while it’s hot and the sauce is creamy.