Golden Cheese Steak Tortellini Casserole

If you’re looking for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, you’ve come to the right place! This Golden Cheese Steak Tortellini Casserole is one of my all-time favorites. It combines tender steak with fluffy cheese tortellini and a velvety golden cheese sauce that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual family gathering, this casserole is perfect for any occasion. Trust me, it’s hard not to fall in love with this comforting dish!

One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to whip up. You can have it ready in just about 40 minutes, making it an ideal choice for those nights when you want something hearty but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. Plus, the kids will adore the cheesy goodness, and you’ll appreciate how simple it is to prepare!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This casserole comes together in just one pan and under an hour, perfect for busy evenings!
• Cheesy Goodness: With sharp cheddar and mozzarella, every bite is filled with comforting flavors that everyone will love.
• Family-Friendly: It’s hard to resist this dish—kids and adults alike will enjoy digging into this cheesy delight.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep it ahead of time for easy weeknight dinners; simply bake when you’re ready!
• Versatile: You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients or swaps.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for your Golden Cheese Steak Tortellini Casserole is as simple as pie! These wholesome ingredients create layers of flavor that make this dish truly special. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 lb sirloin steak or steak tips, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Salt & black pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk (whole milk or 2%)
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or golden cheddar blend)
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 package (20 oz) cheese tortellini, fresh or refrigerated
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella (for topping)
• 2 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish)

Variations

What I love most about this Golden Cheese Steak Tortellini Casserole is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Swap the protein: Use chicken or ground turkey instead of steak if you prefer a different protein option.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for an extra dose of nutrients and flavor.
• Change the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gouda for a unique twist on taste.
• Spice it up: If you like some heat, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to give it an extra kick!

How to Make Golden Cheese Steak Tortellini Casserole

Step 1: Sear the Steak

First things first—preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Season your bite-sized pieces of steak with salt and pepper. In a skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil and sear the steak for about 2–3 minutes on each side until browned. This step not only locks in flavor but also gives your casserole that lovely texture.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for around 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in flour to create a roux; this helps thicken your sauce beautifully. Gradually whisk in milk and beef broth until smooth—this will make your sauce luscious! Finally, stir in cheddar cheese along with Dijon mustard and paprika until creamy.

Step 3: Cook the Tortellini

Now it’s time to cook your tortellini according to package directions. Make sure not to overcook them; slightly undercooking ensures they finish perfectly in the oven. Drain them well and toss with a drizzle of olive oil so they don’t stick together.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Grease a generous-sized baking dish (9×13 inches works great!). Combine cooked tortellini, seared steak, and that rich cheese sauce right in there. Gently stir everything together so every piece gets coated—yum! Lastly, sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top for that irresistible golden crust.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Pop your casserole into the preheated oven uncovered for about 20–25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top. Before serving, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over everything—it adds such a nice touch!

And there you have it! Your very own Golden Cheese Steak Tortellini Casserole—comfort food at its finest! Enjoy every cheesy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Golden Cheese Steak Tortellini Casserole

Creating the perfect Golden Cheese Steak Tortellini Casserole is easier than you think! Here are some handy tips to ensure your dish comes out delicious every time.

• Choose quality steak: Using fresh sirloin steak or steak tips will not only enhance the flavor but also ensure tenderness in every bite.
• Don’t rush the roux: Cooking the flour with butter for a minute before adding liquids helps in creating a smooth cheese sauce, free of lumps, that coats everything beautifully.
• Cook tortellini slightly under: This prevents them from becoming too soft during baking and keeps them perfectly al dente when served.
• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the casserole to cool for about 5 minutes after baking helps it set, making it easier to serve and ensuring each portion holds together nicely.
• Experiment with cheeses: While sharp cheddar is recommended, feel free to mix in other cheeses like gouda or Monterey Jack for a unique flavor twist.

How to Serve Golden Cheese Steak Tortellini Casserole

This casserole isn’t just about taste; it’s also about presentation! Here are some ideas to make your dish even more appealing when serving.

Garnishes

• Chopped green onions: A sprinkle of diced green onions adds a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that complements the richness of the casserole.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a little heat, these can bring an extra kick that balances the creamy sauce beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Warm, crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover cheese sauce while adding comforting flavors to your meal.
• Steamed broccoli: The freshness and crunch of steamed broccoli provide a nutritious contrast to the rich tortellini casserole and add vibrant color to your plate.
• Caesar salad (dairy-free dressing): A crisp Caesar salad with a dairy-free dressing can provide a refreshing balance to the richness of the casserole.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies seasoned with herbs not only enhance your meal’s visual appeal but also offer additional nutrients and textures.

This Golden Cheese Steak Tortellini Casserole is sure to impress family and friends alike. Enjoy making this delightful dish and happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Golden Cheese Steak Tortellini Casserole is perfect for meal prep! You can whip it up in advance, store it, and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to handle leftovers, freeze portions, and reheat them for a quick meal.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the casserole cool entirely.
• Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
• For best results, consider freezing individual portions in freezer-safe containers.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Cover the dish with foil and bake for about 20-30 minutes or until heated through.
• If reheating from the fridge, bake uncovered for about 15-20 minutes until bubbly.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delicious casserole!

Can I make Golden Cheese Steak Tortellini Casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare this casserole in advance and store it in the fridge or freezer. Follow the storage tips above for best results!

What can I substitute for beef broth in Golden Cheese Steak Tortellini Casserole?

You can use vegetable broth or chicken broth as a substitute. It will still keep your cheese sauce rich and flavorful!

How do I add more veggies to my Golden Cheese Steak Tortellini Casserole?

Feel free to add sautéed bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms when mixing your ingredients. It’s an excellent way to boost nutrition!

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is recommended for its flavor, feel free to experiment with gouda, pepper jack, or even a blend of cheeses based on your preference.

Final Thoughts

This Golden Cheese Steak Tortellini Casserole is not just a recipe; it’s a warm hug on a plate! With its creamy sauce and hearty ingredients, it brings comfort and satisfaction that everyone will love. I hope you enjoy making this dish as much as I do—it’s sure to become a staple in your home. Happy cooking!