Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Recipe

Introduction

Philly cheesesteak is one of those classic comfort foods that never goes out of style. The combination of savory beef, melted cheese, and sautéed vegetables is a crowd-pleaser in any form. This Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is a fun, hearty twist on the traditional sandwich. It combines all the flavors of a Philly cheesesteak with the richness of creamy pasta. My family absolutely loved this dish, and it’s become a staple in our dinner rotation. It’s easy to make, filling, and perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something that feels indulgent but doesn’t take forever to prepare. The creamy sauce and melted provolone cheese elevate this pasta to something truly special.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef or steak strips
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded provolone cheese
• 12 oz pasta (penne or rigatoni recommended)
• 1 cup beef broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

1. Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced green bell pepper, onion, and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the vegetables are softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
3. Cook Meat: Add the ground beef or steak strips to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Cook until the meat is browned and fully cooked through. Break up the ground beef into crumbles if you are using that option.
4. Combine Ingredients: Stir in the softened cream cheese and beef broth. Stir until the cream cheese has melted and the mixture becomes creamy. Make sure all the ingredients are well combined.
5. Add Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss it with the creamy beef and vegetable mixture. Stir to coat the pasta evenly in the sauce.
6. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded provolone cheese on top of the pasta. Turn the oven to broil and place the skillet under the broiler for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese has melted and become bubbly. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
7. Serve: Serve the Philly cheesesteak pasta hot, and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 600 kcal

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve the Philly cheesesteak pasta directly from the skillet for a rustic presentation.
• Garnish with extra provolone cheese or a sprinkle of parsley for added flavor and color.
• Serve with a side of garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
• Pair with a light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish.
• For an added crunch, top with some crushed red pepper flakes or fresh jalapeño slices.

Additional Tips

1. Use Ribeye for Authenticity: For an even more authentic Philly cheesesteak experience, you can use ribeye steak slices instead of ground beef. Ribeye provides a tender and juicy texture that is perfect for this dish.
2. Vegetable Options: While bell peppers and onions are classic choices, you can also add mushrooms or even spinach for additional flavor and nutrients.
3. Make It Spicy: If you like heat, consider adding a chopped jalapeño to the vegetable mix or sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top before broiling.
4. Gluten-Free Option: For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta. Be sure to check the beef broth as well, ensuring it’s gluten-free.
5. Creamy Sauce Variations: If you want to make the sauce even creamier, you can add a splash of milk or a little more cream cheese. You can also swap the cream cheese with ricotta for a different flavor.

Recipe Variations

• Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Pasta: Replace the ground beef or steak strips with chicken breast or thighs. Chicken will give a leaner option but still provide the delicious savory flavor of the original recipe.
• Vegetarian Philly Cheesesteak Pasta: Swap the beef for plant-based meat or sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian alternative. You can also add more vegetables, like zucchini or eggplant, to fill out the dish.
• Spicy Philly Cheesesteak Pasta: Add some hot sauce, fresh jalapeños, or a spoonful of sriracha to the sauce to give the dish a spicy kick that pairs well with the creamy sauce.

Serving Suggestions

• Side Salad: A simple side salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette adds a fresh element to the richness of the pasta.
• Garlic Bread: Serve with homemade garlic bread or a baguette to help scoop up the creamy sauce.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted veggies like broccoli, cauliflower, or Brussels sprouts can complement the dish and add a healthy touch.
• Pickles: The tangy flavor of pickles can balance the richness of the pasta, adding a nice contrast to the creaminess.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: This Philly cheesesteak pasta can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. Reheat in the oven or on the stovetop, adding a little extra beef broth to bring back the creamy texture.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of beef broth to keep the sauce creamy.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use chicken instead of beef?
   Yes, chicken can be used instead of beef. Sautéed chicken breast or thighs work well in this recipe and offer a lighter alternative.
2. Can I use a different cheese instead of provolone?
   Yes, mozzarella or cheddar cheese are great substitutes. You could also try using a blend of cheeses for added flavor.
3. What pasta is best for this recipe?
   Penne or rigatoni are recommended because their shape holds the creamy sauce well. However, you can use any pasta you prefer.
4. Can I add more vegetables to the dish?
   Absolutely! Mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini would be great additions to make the dish even more hearty and flavorful.
5. How do I make the sauce thicker?
   To thicken the sauce, you can add more cream cheese or a small amount of flour or cornstarch mixed with water.
6. Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
   Yes, you can cook the pasta, sauté the vegetables, and cook the beef in advance. When ready to serve, simply combine and broil the cheese on top.
7. How do I reheat leftovers?
   Reheat leftovers in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat. Add a little beef broth to keep the sauce creamy.
8. Can I make this dish spicier?
   Yes, add some hot sauce or fresh diced jalapeños to the skillet for extra heat.
9. Is this recipe gluten-free?
   You can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta and ensuring the beef broth is also gluten-free.
10. How do I make this recipe vegetarian?
    Use plant-based meat or mushrooms as a substitute for the beef and follow the recipe as usual for a vegetarian option.

Conclusion

Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is a delicious, creamy, and comforting dish that combines all the flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak into a pasta dish that everyone will love. It’s quick, easy to make, and incredibly flavorful. Whether you’re using ground beef, steak, or chicken, the creamy sauce and melted cheese make for a satisfying meal. Customize it to suit your preferences by adding extra vegetables or spice, and serve it alongside a fresh salad or garlic bread for the perfect meal. It’s a family-friendly recipe that’s sure to be a hit at your dinner table!

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