Philly Cheesesteak Pasta

This Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is pure comfort, bringing the beloved flavors of the classic sandwich to a warm and inviting pasta dish. It’s the kind of meal that wraps you in a cozy embrace after a long day, perfect for family gatherings or even a simple weeknight dinner. If you’re looking to impress without the fuss, this dish hits all the right notes—simplicity, flavor, and satisfaction.

The key elements of this cheesy pasta dish include one pound of ground beef or tender steak strips, diced green bell peppers, and sweet onions complemented by aromatic garlic. Add in creamy, softened cream cheese along with gooey provolone, and you’re already on your way to something special. The pasta, whether you choose penne or rigatoni, serves as the ideal base to soak up the delicious sauce made from beef broth, allowing the flavors to meld seamlessly. The result is a savory flavor profile that excites the taste buds, with every bite delivering creamy, cheesy goodness.

The preparation method is straightforward and user-friendly. Begin with cooking the pasta until it reaches that perfect al dente texture. Meanwhile, sauté the vegetables and garlic in a skillet before adding the ground beef or steak, ensuring it’s fully cooked. Then, incorporate the creamy elements and toss the pasta in, all topped off with bubbly, melted cheese after a quick broil. It sounds complicated, but each step is uncomplicated and manageable, making this dish perfect for cooks of all experience levels.

This recipe shines on chilly nights, offering warmth and heartiness when you need it most. Whether it’s a family supper or a potluck, this dish brings people together, making it not just a meal, but a delightful experience.

Why You’ll Love This Philly Cheesesteak Pasta

• Quick: This recipe comes together in a flash, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Simple Ingredients: You may already have many of these ingredients in your pantry.
• Comfort Food: It’s rich, creamy, and impossibly satisfying.
• Customizable: Easily swap in your favorite meats or vegetables.
• Crowd-pleaser: Ideal for family gatherings and potlucks, everyone will love it.

Ground Beef Tips

When selecting ground beef for your Philly Cheesesteak Pasta, look for a blend of meat that’s around 80% lean. This provides the perfect balance of flavor and moisture, ensuring that your dish doesn’t dry out. If you opt for steak strips, a flank or sirloin works well, offering tenderness and a rich beefy flavor. Always check the color; fresh meat should appear bright red, without any browning areas.

Options for Substitutions

• Ground Turkey: For a leaner option, ground turkey works well.
• Vegetable Broth: Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a lighter flavor.
• Cream Cheese Alternatives: Neufchâtel cheese can be a lower fat alternative.
• Different Cheeses: Swap provolone for mozzarella or cheddar if you prefer.
• Gluten-Free Pasta: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for gluten-free diets.
• Additional Veggies: Add mushrooms or spinach for extra nutrients and flavor.

Watch Out for These Mistakes

One common error while cooking pasta is not salting the water enough. This step enhances the pasta’s flavor. Additionally, it’s crucial to cook your pasta just until al dente, as it will continue cooking slightly when mixed with the sauce. If you overcook it, you may end up with mushy pasta.

While sautéing your vegetables, ensure not to leave them unattended. Keep stirring to avoid burning and to achieve that perfect softness. Another pitfall is adding the cream cheese too early. Wait until the meat is fully cooked before incorporating the cheese and beef broth to create a smooth sauce. Lastly, remember to mix quickly when combining the pasta with the sauce to ensure every piece is well-coated without letting the sauce sit too long in the skillet.

What to Serve With Philly Cheesesteak Pasta?

This hearty pasta dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad for a refreshing contrast. Garlic bread or crusty rolls make excellent companions, perfect for scooping up the delicious sauce. Another great option is a side of roasted or steamed vegetables, offering a lovely balance to the richness of the pasta.

Storage Instructions

• Store: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: For longer storage, this dish can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or broth to help restore creaminess, or microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through.

Recipe Info

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Level of Difficulty: Easy
• Servings: 4-6

Estimated Nutrition

Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):

• Calories: 1,200-1,500
• Protein: 80-100g
• Fat: 70-90g
• Carbohydrates: 100-120g

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

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

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

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced green bell pepper, onion, and minced garlic. Sauté for 4-5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.

Step 3: Cook the Meat

Add the ground beef or steak strips to the skillet. Cook, breaking up the beef as necessary, until the meat is fully browned and cooked through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Stir the softened cream cheese and beef broth into the skillet with the meat and vegetables. Continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the cream cheese is fully melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Top with Cheese and Broil

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the sauce until fully coated. Sprinkle the shredded provolone cheese evenly on top. Broil in the oven for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.

Step 6: Serve

Remove from the oven and serve hot. Enjoy this creamy, cheesy, and savory pasta dish immediately!

In conclusion, this Philly Cheesesteak Pasta recipe combines the beloved flavors of a classic sandwich with the convenience of pasta. It’s creamy, comforting, and incredibly satisfying. I invite you to try this recipe and share your thoughts or any modifications you made. Explore similar posts on my blog for more delightful recipes that can bring joy to your home cooking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this pasta dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients in advance and store them separately. Combine and cook when you’re ready to serve.

How can I adjust this recipe for dietary restrictions?

You can substitute ground turkey for beef, use gluten-free pasta, or even make it completely vegetarian by omitting meat and using lentils or beans.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Absolutely! You can freeze leftovers for up to three months. Just make sure to reheat them thoroughly before serving again.

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