Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Recipe

Introduction

Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is a creative twist on the iconic Philly cheesesteak sandwich. Combining all the savory flavors of the classic sandwich with the heartiness of pasta, this dish delivers a rich, cheesy, and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Tender strips of beef, caramelized onions, and peppers are tossed with al dente pasta and smothered in a creamy, melty cheese sauce. The result is a dish that feels both indulgent and comforting, offering all the deliciousness of a Philly cheesesteak but in a new and exciting form.

This recipe for Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is simple to make, and with just a few key ingredients, you can bring the flavors of a Philly cheesesteak into your kitchen. Whether you’re craving a comforting weeknight dinner or looking to impress your friends and family at your next gathering, this dish is perfect for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love Philly Cheesesteak Pasta

• Classic Philly Cheesesteak Flavor: This dish captures the delicious flavors of a Philly cheesesteak, with tender beef, sautéed onions, bell peppers, and plenty of cheese—all combined in a creamy, comforting pasta.
• Hearty and Satisfying: Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is incredibly filling thanks to the combination of pasta, beef, and a rich cheese sauce. It’s perfect for satisfying big appetites.
• Quick and Easy to Make: Despite its indulgent flavors, this pasta dish is easy to prepare. With just a few steps, you can have a delicious and hearty meal ready in no time.
• Comforting and Decadent: With the creamy cheese sauce and savory beef, this dish offers the perfect level of comfort food, ideal for cozy nights at home or feeding a hungry crowd.
• Versatile: The basic concept of Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is very flexible, allowing you to add or adjust ingredients to suit your preferences, like adding mushrooms, using different cheeses, or customizing the level of heat.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 4-6 servings
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 550-650 calories per serving, depending on the ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 550-650 kcal
• Fat: 30-40g
• Carbohydrates: 45-50g
• Protein: 35g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 5-7g

Ingredients

For the Philly Cheesesteak Pasta:

• 1 lb (450g) beef steak (ribeye or sirloin), thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced (optional: red or green)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 12 oz (340g) pasta (penne, rigatoni, or elbow macaroni)
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 cups shredded provolone cheese (or a mix of provolone and mozzarella)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Optional: Hot sauce or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

Begin by slicing the beef steak thinly against the grain. Ribeye is often the best choice for Philly cheesesteaks due to its tenderness and rich flavor, but you can also use sirloin or another steak of your choice. Once the beef is sliced, set it aside.

Slice the onion and bell pepper thinly. These vegetables will add sweetness and crunch to the dish. Mince the garlic for later use, and set all your ingredients out, as this will help streamline the cooking process.

2. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it is al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Once the pasta is done, drain it, reserving 1 cup of pasta water for later. Set the cooked pasta aside while you prepare the rest of the dish.

3. Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onions and bell peppers to the pan. Sauté the vegetables for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften and caramelize. This step brings out the natural sweetness in the vegetables, which balances the savory flavors of the beef and cheese.

Add the minced garlic to the pan and cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the garlic to become fragrant. Be careful not to burn it.

4. Cook the Beef

Add the thinly sliced beef to the pan with the onions and peppers. Cook the beef for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and cooked through. Since the beef is thinly sliced, it will cook quickly. Season the beef with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If you like, you can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a few drops of hot sauce at this stage for a bit of spice.

5. Make the Cheese Sauce

In the same skillet with the beef and vegetables, add the butter and let it melt. Once melted, pour in the heavy cream and beef broth. Stir the mixture well, allowing the cream to heat through and combine with the beef and vegetables. Let the mixture simmer for 3-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly.

Next, add the shredded provolone cheese (and mozzarella if using) and the grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce. Stir continuously until the cheese has completely melted and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or hot sauce if desired.

6. Combine the Pasta and Sauce

Once the cheese sauce is ready, add the drained pasta to the skillet. Toss the pasta in the sauce, ensuring it is fully coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a little bit of the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. The pasta water helps to thin the sauce and make it more cohesive with the pasta.

7. Serve the Dish

Serve the Philly Cheesesteak Pasta immediately while it’s hot. Garnish with extra grated Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, or additional red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. This dish is rich, creamy, and packed with savory flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

8. Enjoy

Dig into your Philly Cheesesteak Pasta and enjoy all the flavors of a Philly cheesesteak, combined with the comfort of pasta and cheese. This dish is sure to satisfy your cravings for something hearty and delicious.

Tips for Perfect Philly Cheesesteak Pasta

• Use Quality Beef: For the best flavor, use good-quality beef like ribeye or sirloin. The better the beef, the more tender and flavorful your pasta will be.
• Don’t Overcook the Beef: Since the beef is thinly sliced, it cooks quickly. Be careful not to overcook it, as it can become tough. It’s best to cook the beef just until it’s browned and no longer pink.
• Adjust the Spice: If you like your Philly cheesesteak with a bit of heat, feel free to add more hot sauce, red pepper flakes, or even diced jalapeños to the sauce.
• Use a Good Melting Cheese: Provolone cheese is the most traditional choice for a Philly cheesesteak, but you can also use mozzarella for extra creaminess. A blend of provolone and mozzarella gives the dish the perfect melt and flavor.
• Make it Ahead of Time: This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, simply warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a little extra cream or pasta water to loosen up the sauce if necessary.
• Make it Lighter: For a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or even milk. You can also use a leaner cut of beef, such as flank steak or tenderloin, to reduce the fat content.

Variations of Philly Cheesesteak Pasta

• Mushroom Philly Cheesesteak Pasta: Add sliced mushrooms to the sautéed onions and peppers for an earthy, umami-packed twist on the classic Philly cheesesteak. Mushrooms complement the beef and cheese perfectly.
• Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Pasta: Swap the beef for thinly sliced chicken breast or thighs for a lighter, but still flavorful, variation on the dish.
• Spicy Philly Cheesesteak Pasta: Add more heat to the dish by incorporating fresh jalapeños or chili peppers, or by adding extra hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes.
• Veggie Philly Cheesesteak Pasta: For a vegetarian version, use thinly sliced portobello mushrooms instead of beef. You can also add extra veggies like zucchini, spinach, or roasted bell peppers.

Storage and Shelf Life

Philly Cheesesteak Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The dish is best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to store leftovers, simply reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a bit of milk or cream to restore the creamy texture of the sauce.

For longer storage, you can freeze the Philly Cheesesteak Pasta. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a skillet or microwave, adding a little milk or cream as needed.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Philly Cheesesteak Pasta

• Garlic Bread: A classic side dish that’s perfect for mopping up the creamy cheese sauce. The crispy, buttery bread pairs wonderfully with the rich flavors of the pasta.
• Green Salad: A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the heaviness of the pasta.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or carrots provide a healthy and flavorful complement to the creamy pasta.
• French Fries or Sweet Potato Fries: If you’re craving more comfort food, serve the pasta with a side of crispy fries or sweet potato fries.

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Conclusion

Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is a rich, comforting dish that brings together all the savory flavors of a Philly cheesesteak sandwich and pairs them with the satisfying texture of pasta. With tender beef, sautéed onions, peppers, and a creamy cheese sauce, this dish is perfect for a hearty dinner that’s sure to please a crowd. Whether you’re cooking it for a family meal, a dinner party, or just to satisfy your cravings, Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is an indulgent and flavorful dish that you’ll want to make again and again. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!