Philly Cheesesteak Pasta

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Introduction

Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is a mouthwatering fusion that combines the best of both worlds: the savory, cheesy goodness of a Philly cheesesteak and the comforting, creamy texture of pasta. Tender strips of beef, sautéed onions, and bell peppers are enveloped in a rich, velvety cheese sauce, creating a dish that’s as indulgent as it is satisfying. Whether you’re enjoying a hearty family dinner, hosting a casual get-together, or just craving something comforting, this pasta is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

The first time I made Philly Cheesesteak Pasta, I was amazed by how easily I could recreate the flavors of the iconic sandwich in a new way. Sautéing the beef, peppers, and onions until they were perfectly caramelized and then combining them with the creamy cheese sauce felt like magic. The result was a dish that was rich, flavorful, and utterly satisfying.

What I love most about Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is its versatility. It’s the perfect one-pot meal that’s easy to make yet feels indulgent. You can adjust the level of creaminess by adding more or less cheese sauce, or add a touch of heat with a dash of hot sauce. Whether served with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad, this pasta is a guaranteed hit that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Perfect for:

  • Family dinners
  • Weeknight meals
  • Comfort food cravings
  • Casual gatherings
  • Pasta lovers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Philly Cheesesteak Pasta will quickly become a favorite:

  • Creamy and Cheesy: The creamy cheese sauce envelops the pasta, just like the melty cheese on a classic Philly cheesesteak.
  • Tender Beef: The thinly sliced steak is cooked to perfection, adding savory depth to the dish.
  • Flavorful Vegetables: Onions and bell peppers enhance the dish with their savory sweetness and crunch.
  • Quick and Easy: This recipe is simple to make, requiring just 30 minutes from start to finish.
  • Customizable: You can adjust the toppings or cheese to suit your personal taste.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 20 minutes
  • Servings: 4 servings
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 500-550 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 35g, Carbs: 40g, Fat: 25g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Philly Cheesesteak Pasta:

  • 8 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or fettuccine works well)
  • 1 lb ribeye steak or sirloin, thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 ½ cups heavy cream
  • 2 cups shredded provolone cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Optional: Chopped parsley for garnish

Ingredient Highlights

  • Ribeye or Sirloin: These cuts of beef are tender and full of flavor, making them perfect for the Philly cheesesteak-inspired pasta.
  • Provolone and Mozzarella: These cheeses melt beautifully and create a creamy, cheesy sauce that coats the pasta.
  • Bell Peppers and Onions: These vegetables add flavor, color, and crunch, mimicking the classic Philly cheesesteak toppings.
  • Beef Broth and Heavy Cream: The beef broth adds richness, and the cream makes the sauce velvety smooth.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Pasta:

  1. Cook the Pasta: Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.

Cook the Beef:

  1. Sear the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced steak and cook for 3-4 minutes until browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
  2. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and bell pepper. Cook for 5-6 minutes, or until softened and caramelized. Add the garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.

Make the Cheese Sauce:

  1. Add Beef Broth and Cream: Pour the beef broth into the skillet and bring it to a simmer, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan. Add the heavy cream and stir to combine.
  2. Melt the Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and add the provolone and mozzarella cheeses, stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine Pasta and Beef:

  1. Add the Beef and Pasta: Return the cooked beef to the skillet, along with the cooked pasta. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time if the sauce needs thinning. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is well coated and heated through.

Serve:

  1. Garnish and Serve: Serve the Philly cheesesteak pasta in bowls, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

How to Serve

  • With Garlic Bread: Serve alongside garlic bread for a full, comforting meal.
  • With a Side Salad: Pair with a simple green salad to balance the richness of the dish.
  • As a Main Course: This dish is hearty enough to stand on its own as a satisfying main course.
  • For Extra Flavor: Top with extra provolone or Parmesan cheese for more cheesiness.

Additional Tips

  • Use Thinly Sliced Beef: For the best texture and flavor, make sure to thinly slice the beef against the grain.
  • Don’t Overcook the Beef: Sear the beef just until browned to keep it tender and juicy.
  • Customize the Vegetables: Add mushrooms, spinach, or even jalapeños for extra flavor and texture.
  • Adjust the Cheese: If you prefer a sharper taste, swap some of the mozzarella for cheddar or gouda.
  • Use a Pasta with Texture: Opt for pasta like penne, rotini, or fettuccine to hold the creamy sauce well.

Recipe Variations

  1. Spicy Philly Cheesesteak Pasta: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.
  2. Mushroom Philly Cheesesteak Pasta: Add sliced mushrooms along with the bell peppers and onions for a hearty, earthy flavor.
  3. Garlic Parmesan Philly Cheesesteak Pasta: Stir in ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese for a tangy, savory twist.
  4. Vegetarian Philly Cheesesteak Pasta: Use plant-based beef or sautéed portobello mushrooms in place of the steak.
  5. Buffalo Philly Cheesesteak Pasta: Toss the pasta with buffalo sauce for a spicy, tangy version of this dish.
  6. Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Bake: After combining the pasta and sauce, transfer it to a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and bake at 375°F for 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
  7. BBQ Philly Cheesesteak Pasta: Add barbecue sauce to the cheese sauce for a smoky, sweet flavor.
  8. Cajun Philly Cheesesteak Pasta: Sprinkle Cajun seasoning over the beef and vegetables for a zesty, Southern-inspired twist.
  9. Philly Cheesesteak Mac and Cheese: Make the cheese sauce extra rich by adding extra cheddar cheese to the mix.
  10. Lighter Philly Cheesesteak Pasta: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and opt for a leaner cut of beef like flank steak.

Freezing and Storage

  • Freezing: Freeze the cooked, cooled Philly cheesesteak pasta in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove over low heat.
  • Storage: Store leftover Philly cheesesteak pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.

Special Equipment

  • Large Skillet or Frying Pan: A wide pan allows you to cook the steak and veggies evenly while keeping things crispy.
  • Dutch Oven: Perfect for making the pasta sauce and combining all ingredients together without overcrowding the pan.
  • Tongs: Essential for flipping and tossing the steak strips, veggies, and pasta without breaking them apart.
  • Chef’s Knife: A sharp knife will make it easier to slice the steak and vegetables into thin strips.
  • Cutting Board: A sturdy board helps with chopping the steak, onions, peppers, and any other ingredients.
  • Lid for Skillet: Helps trap heat and speed up cooking, especially when sautéing the steak or simmering the sauce.
  • Large Pot for Boiling Pasta: A pot big enough to allow the pasta to move freely while cooking will prevent clumping.
  • Colander: For draining the pasta once it’s cooked.
  • Grater: For freshly grating the cheese, which melts better and tastes fresher compared to pre-shredded cheese.
  • Wooden Spoon or Spatula: To stir the ingredients gently without scratching your cookware, ensuring even distribution of flavors.

FAQ

  1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
    Yes, you can substitute provolone with mozzarella, cheddar, or gouda, depending on your preference.
  2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
    Yes, you can cook the pasta and prepare the sauce ahead of time, then combine everything when ready to serve.
  3. What can I substitute for ribeye?
    Sirloin steak or flank steak works well in this recipe as a substitute for ribeye.
  4. Can I use a different type of pasta?
    Yes, any short pasta like penne, rigatoni, or rotini works well with the creamy sauce.
  5. Is this recipe spicy?
    The recipe is not inherently spicy, but you can add hot sauce, jalapeños, or spicy cheese for extra heat.

Conclusion

Philly Cheesesteak Pasta combines the creamy comfort of pasta with the bold, savory flavors of a Philly cheesesteak. Tender beef, sautéed vegetables, and a rich, gooey cheese sauce come together in this dish to create a meal that’s as satisfying as it is delicious. Whether you’re craving a hearty dinner for the whole family or looking to impress guests, this dish delivers big on flavor and comfort.

Quick to prepare and easy to customize, Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is perfect for any night of the week. You can adjust the veggies, use different cheeses, or even swap in chicken or another protein to make it your own. Each bite is a delicious balance of creamy, cheesy, and savory goodness.

I can’t wait to see your Philly Cheesesteak Pasta creations! Snap a photo and tag me on Instagram—I’d love to see how you make it your own. Don’t forget to share your favorite variations in the comments. Happy cooking!

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