This Slow Cooker Cheesesteak Tortellini is the perfect comfort-food upgrade to classic Philly cheesesteak flavors. Tender beef, onions, peppers, and cheesy tortellini come together in one creamy, cozy crockpot dinner. It’s a dump-and-go meal, incredibly flavorful, and ideal for busy weeknights when you want something warm, rich, and satisfying without spending time in the kitchen.
Inspired by the classic Philly cheesesteak, this recipe delivers the same beefy, cheesy goodness — but wrapped in soft, fluffy tortellini. The slow cooker builds flavor while keeping everything juicy, while the tortellini is added at the end for the perfect velvety bite.
This is your new favorite slow cooker dinner, perfect for families, picky eaters, and anyone who loves creamy pasta dishes.
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Cheesesteak Tortellini
- True cheesesteak flavor — beef, peppers, onions, rich cheese
- Family-friendly and picky-eater approved
- Crockpot convenience — hands-free cooking
- Creamy, cheesy comfort food without heavy prep
- One-pot cleanup
- Perfect for meal prep — reheats beautifully
Ingredients You Need
Use these simple, pantry-friendly ingredients for authentic crockpot cheesesteak tortellini flavor:
Beef & Veggies
- 1 lb sliced sirloin, shaved steak, or thinly sliced beef
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 medium onion, sliced
Seasoning & Flavor
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Creamy Cheesesteak Sauce
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup shredded provolone or mozzarella
- Optional: ½ cup shredded cheddar for extra richness
Pasta
- 1 bag (19–20 oz) refrigerated or frozen cheese tortellini
How to Make Slow Cooker Cheesesteak Tortellini
Before You Begin
Preheat and prepare slow cooker as needed. Cooking times and results may vary depending on the thickness of beef slices, the slow cooker model, and ingredient temperatures. Always rely on visual cues, not time alone, to confirm doneness.
Step 1 — Add Beef & Vegetables
Place sliced beef, bell peppers, and onions into the slow cooker.
Season with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Visual cue: Beef should be spread evenly so it cooks uniformly.
Step 2 — Add Broth & Cream Cheese
Pour in beef broth and Worcestershire sauce.
Place the cream cheese block on top.
Safety note: Keep cream cheese in one piece so it melts evenly.
Step 3 — Slow Cook
Cook until beef is fully tender.
- LOW: 5–6 hours
- HIGH: 3 hours
Visual cue: Beef should appear fully cooked and easy to shred with a fork.
Step 4 — Stir to Create Sauce
Stir well until the cream cheese fully melts and blends into a smooth, creamy sauce.
Add shredded provolone (and cheddar if using).
Visual cue: Sauce should look smooth, not lumpy.
Step 5 — Add Tortellini
Stir in the tortellini gently.
Cook on HIGH for 15–25 minutes, checking after 10 minutes.
Visual cue: Tortellini should look plump, soft, and fully heated through — not mushy.
Step 6 — Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning.
Top with extra cheese if desired.
Tips for the Best Cheesesteak Tortellini
- Add tortellini at the end or it will overcook.
- Use shaved beef for real cheesesteak flavor.
- Frozen tortellini works — simply cook 5–10 minutes longer.
- Add mushrooms for a classic cheesesteak variation.
- Use provolone for the most authentic taste.
Serving Ideas
This recipe pairs perfectly with:
- Garlic bread
- Toasted hoagie rolls
- Simple green salad
- Steamed broccoli
- Roasted asparagus
Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator
Store in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
Freezing
Not recommended due to dairy and pasta — texture won’t stay creamy.
Reheat
Warm on stovetop with a splash of milk or broth to loosen sauce.
FAQ
1. Can I use frozen tortellini in slow cooker cheesesteak tortellini?
Yes — frozen tortellini works perfectly. Simply add it during the last 15–20 minutes so it doesn’t overcook.
2. What type of beef is best for cheesesteak tortellini?
Shaved beef, steak strips, or thinly sliced ribeye/chuck roast work best for tender results.
3. Can I make this recipe without heavy cream?
Yes — you can use half-and-half, evaporated milk, or a mixture of milk + cream cheese for creaminess.
4. Can I cook the tortellini separately?
Yes, but not required. Adding it directly to the slow cooker makes it a true one-pot meal.
5. Can I make slow cooker cheesesteak tortellini ahead of time?
Absolutely. This recipe reheats well and is great for meal prep.
Recipe Card
Slow Cooker Cheesesteak Tortellini
Author: Isaac Blogger
Method: Slow Cooker
Cuisine: American Comfort
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5–6 hours
Total Time: ~6 hours
Servings: 6
Before You Begin
Prepare the slow cooker and ingredients. Cooking times and results vary depending on equipment and moisture levels. Use visual doneness cues along with time ranges.
Ingredients
- 1 lb shaved beef or thinly sliced steak
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt & pepper
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 1–1.5 cups shredded provolone
- 1 bag (19–20 oz) cheese tortellini
Instructions
Drain & Layer Ingredients
- Add beef, peppers, and onions to slow cooker.
- Season with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Add Liquid & Cream Cheese
3. Pour in beef broth and Worcestershire.
4. Place cream cheese block on top.
Slow Cook
5. Cook on LOW 5–6 hours or HIGH 3 hours, until beef is tender.
Add Cheese
6. Stir well to melt the cream cheese into a smooth sauce.
7. Add shredded provolone and mix gently.
Cook Tortellini
8. Add tortellini and cook on HIGH 15–25 minutes until tender.
Check after 10 minutes to avoid overcooking.
Serve
9. Serve warm with additional cheese if desired.
Nutrition (Approximate per serving)
Calories: ~520
Protein: ~28 g
Fat: ~32 g
Carbohydrates: ~30 g
Sodium: ~720 mg
Nutrition Disclaimer: Values are estimates and vary based on brands, measurements, and substitutions.
