Next, add the minced garlic and sliced beef to the skillet. The smell is absolutely divine as it starts to cook! I like to season it generously with salt and pepper, allowing it to sear for about 5-7 minutes or until the beef is cooked through. By now, your kitchen should be filled with mouth-watering aromas. Drain the cooked tortellini, making sure to reserve a bit of pasta water before you do. This will help with the sauce later on!
Once you’ve drained your tortellini, add it straight into the skillet with the beef and veggies, gently folding everything together. If you feel like it needs more moisture, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water will do the trick perfectly. Finally, sprinkle the shredded provolone cheese over everything and cover the skillet briefly, allowing the cheese to melt into a gooey, cheesy blanket of goodness.
When the cheese is all melty and divine, remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle it generously with fresh parsley. This little dash of color not only makes it pop visually but also adds a wonderful fresh taste to the dish. I always serve it hot, and it’s like a warm hug on a plate!
Pro Tips for Best Results
I tested this recipe three ways, trying different kinds of cheeses, but provolone was by far the winner. It melts beautifully and has that unforgettable cheesy taste that complements the seasonings perfectly. If you’re feeling adventurous, don’t hesitate to mix and match with mozzarella or even cheddar for a different flavor profile.
Also, don’t skip on the seasoning! The key to a delicious cheesesteak is that deep flavor that comes from well-seasoned meat and veggies. I’ve learned to taste as I go—this helps ensure everything is balanced just the way I like it. Use fresh ingredients whenever possible; they really do make a difference in the overall taste.
Lastly, try to slice your beef as thin as you can. I once made the mistake of using thicker slices and found that it took longer to cook through, which affected the tenderness. A good sharp knife makes all the difference, so don’t hold back when prepping!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake that I made on my first attempt was overcrowding the skillet. When you pile too much meat and veggies in at once, they steam instead of sear, losing that beautiful caramelization. It’s best to cook in batches if your skillet feels cramped. This way, you’ll get that wonderful color and flavor!
Another misstep is forgetting to reserve that pasta water. It’s liquid gold for your dish! It helps bind everything together and gives a deliciously creamy texture, so don’t dump it all down the drain like I did the first time. A little can go a long way.
Also, make sure to keep an eye on your tortellini while they’re boiling. Overcooking them can lead to a mushy dish, which is definitely not what we want. Just a gentle simmer until they float is all you need; remember, they’ll continue to cook a bit when you combine them with the hot fillings in the skillet. (See the next page below to continue…)