Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Recipe

If you’re a fan of the classic Philly cheesesteak sandwich, you’ll love this indulgent Philly Cheesesteak Pasta. This dish is a hearty combination of tender beef, sautéed vegetables, and creamy cheese sauce, all tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. It’s a one-pan meal that’s simple enough for weeknights but packed with flavor, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Table of Contents

  1. Introduction
  2. Why You’ll Love This Recipe
  3. Ingredients Breakdown
    • Key Ingredients and Their Role
  4. Step-by-Step Directions
  5. Tips for the Perfect Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
  6. Can I Use Ground Beef or Steak Strips?
  7. Storing and Reheating the Pasta
  8. Nutritional Information
  9. Serving Suggestions
  10. FAQs About Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
  11. Conclusion

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is a creamy, cheesy dish that combines the beloved flavors of a Philly cheesesteak sandwich with the comfort of pasta. Here’s why it’s sure to become a new favorite:

  • Flavor-Packed: The beef, onions, bell peppers, and garlic bring out the rich, savory flavors associated with the classic sandwich.
  • Creamy and Cheesy: The combination of cream cheese and provolone creates a velvety sauce that coats the pasta beautifully.
  • Versatile: You can use ground beef or steak strips depending on your preference or what’s available.
  • Quick and Easy: With a few simple steps and ingredients, this dish can be ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients Breakdown

Here’s a closer look at the key ingredients that bring this Philly Cheesesteak Pasta to life:

  • Ground Beef or Steak Strips (1 lb): You can use either ground beef for a quick, budget-friendly option or thinly sliced steak strips for a more authentic cheesesteak flavor.
  • Green Bell Pepper (1, diced): Adds a subtle sweetness and crunch, essential to the traditional Philly cheesesteak flavor.
  • Onion (1, diced): Brings savory sweetness and depth to the dish.
  • Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Infuses the dish with aromatic richness.
  • Cream Cheese (8 oz, softened): Creates a creamy base for the sauce, adding tang and richness.
  • Shredded Provolone Cheese (1 cup): Melts over the top, providing the classic cheesesteak flavor.
  • Pasta (12 oz): Penne or rigatoni are ideal for holding the creamy sauce, but you can use any pasta you prefer.
  • Beef Broth (1 cup): Adds moisture to the sauce and enhances the beefy flavor of the dish.
  • Salt and Pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors of the ingredients.
  • Olive Oil (1 tbsp): Used for sautéing the vegetables and browning the meat.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Cook the Pasta

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

  • In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced green bell pepper, onion, and garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are softened and the onions are translucent, about 5-7 minutes.

3. Cook the Meat

  • Push the vegetables to the side of the skillet and add the ground beef or steak strips. Cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking up the ground beef with a spatula or stirring the steak strips occasionally. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Create the Creamy Sauce

  • Reduce the heat to low and stir in the softened cream cheese and beef broth. Stir continuously until the cream cheese melts and the sauce is smooth and creamy.

5. Combine with Pasta

  • Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.

6. Top with Provolone Cheese

  • Sprinkle the shredded provolone cheese evenly over the top of the pasta. Transfer the skillet to the oven and broil on high for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.

7. Serve and Enjoy

  • Once the cheese is melted and golden, remove the skillet from the oven and serve the Philly Cheesesteak Pasta hot. Enjoy this cheesy, hearty meal with family and friends!

Tips for the Perfect Philly Cheesesteak Pasta

  • Use Quality Meat: If you opt for steak strips, choose tender cuts like ribeye or sirloin. For ground beef, aim for 85/15 for the best balance of flavor and moisture.
  • Melt the Cheese Carefully: Keep a close eye on the pasta while broiling. You want the cheese to melt and get bubbly but not burn.
  • Cook Pasta Al Dente: Make sure to cook your pasta to al dente so it holds up well when combined with the sauce.

Can I Use Ground Beef or Steak Strips?

Both options work well for this recipe, and it really depends on your personal preference:

  • Ground Beef: Easier to cook and less expensive, ground beef creates a heartier, more casual version of this dish.
  • Steak Strips: If you’re looking for an authentic cheesesteak experience, use thinly sliced steak strips. They add a touch of luxury and authenticity to the meal.

Storing and Reheating the Pasta

  • Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water to keep the sauce creamy.
  • Freezer: You can freeze the dish before adding the provolone cheese for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake with the cheese when ready to eat.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of Philly Cheesesteak Pasta contains approximately:

  • Calories: 620 kcal
  • Total Fat: 35g
  • Saturated Fat: 16g
  • Cholesterol: 125mg
  • Carbohydrates: 46g
  • Protein: 31g
  • Sodium: 800mg

Serving Suggestions

Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is a filling meal on its own, but you can pair it with these side dishes for a complete dinner:

  • Garlic Bread: A slice of garlic bread makes a perfect accompaniment, great for soaking up any extra sauce.
  • Side Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.
  • Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts for extra veggies.

FAQs About Philly Cheesesteak Pasta

Q1: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the pasta and meat mixture in advance and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, top with cheese and broil until melted and bubbly.

Q2: Can I use other types of cheese?
Provolone is the classic cheese for a Philly cheesesteak, but you can also use mozzarella, Swiss, or a mix of cheeses for a different flavor.

Q3: Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the pasta with gluten-free pasta, and ensure your beef broth and other ingredients are gluten-free.

Q4: How do I prevent the cream cheese sauce from curdling?
Make sure to add the cream cheese on low heat and stir continuously until it melts smoothly into the broth.

Q5: Can I add mushrooms or other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add mushrooms, sliced jalapeños, or even spinach to the dish for extra flavor and texture.

Conclusion

Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is a deliciously cheesy and comforting dish that transforms the beloved flavors of a Philly cheesesteak into an easy-to-make pasta bake. With sautéed vegetables, tender beef, and a creamy sauce, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this pasta is a satisfying, crowd-pleasing meal.