Philly Cheesesteak

A Philly cheesesteak is a beloved American classic, and this Philly Cheesesteak pasta recipe takes that iconic flavor and transforms it into a hearty dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or enjoying a cozy night in, this meal combines the savory goodness of beef, peppers, and creamy cheese with your favorite pasta. It’s easy to prepare and will surely satisfy your cravings for comfort food.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners.
• Delicious Flavor Fusion: The combination of ground beef, cream cheese, and provolone creates an irresistible creamy sauce that coats the pasta beautifully.
• Versatile Ingredients: Easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or using different types of cheese.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this cheesy twist on a classic Philly cheesesteak.
• Hearty and Satisfying: With protein-packed beef and filling pasta, this dish makes for a complete meal that keeps everyone satisfied.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, gather the necessary tools before you start. Having everything at hand will streamline the process and help you enjoy creating this delightful dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Colander

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Perfect for sautéing vegetables and browning meat evenly.
• Pot for boiling pasta: Ensures even cooking of pasta to al dente perfection.
• Colander: Essential for draining pasta quickly without losing any noodles.

Ingredients

For the Pasta Dish

• 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

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Philly Cheesesteak

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Boil water in a large pot. Add salt to enhance the flavor. Once boiling, add your choice of pasta. Cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain the pasta using a colander and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, add the diced green bell pepper, diced onion, and minced garlic. Sauté until softened, about 4-5 minutes.

Step 3: Cook the Beef

Add the ground beef or steak strips to the skillet with the vegetables. Cook until browned and fully cooked through. Make sure to break up any clumps of meat for even cooking.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

Reduce heat to low and stir in the softened cream cheese along with 1 cup of beef broth. Mix until creamy and smooth. If you need more liquid, feel free to add extra beef broth as desired.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Add the drained pasta into the skillet with the sauce mixture. Toss everything together until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Finish with Cheese

Sprinkle shredded provolone cheese on top of the pasta mixture in the skillet. Broil in the oven until melted and bubbly—about 2-3 minutes. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning!

Serve hot garnished with freshly chopped parsley for an extra touch! Enjoy your delicious Philly cheesesteak pasta!

How to Serve Philly Cheesesteak

Serving a Philly cheesesteak pasta dish can elevate your dining experience. It’s best enjoyed hot, right out of the oven, but there are various ways to present it for maximum flavor and enjoyment.

Family Style

• Large Serving Dish: Present your Philly cheesesteak pasta in a large, attractive casserole dish. This encourages family-style dining as everyone can help themselves.
• Garnished with Fresh Herbs: Top with chopped parsley or basil for a fresh look and added flavor.

Individual Portions

• Baked in Ramekins: For a fun twist, bake individual portions in ramekins. This makes for a great dinner party presentation.
• Sprinkle with Extra Cheese: Add a little extra provolone on top of each serving before broiling for that cheesy goodness.

Accompaniments

• Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread on the side. It’s perfect for scooping up any leftover cheesy goodness.
• Side Salad: A light side salad balances out the richness of the pasta, adding freshness to the meal.

How to Perfect Philly Cheesesteak

To ensure your Philly cheesesteak pasta turns out delicious every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Quality Meat: Start with high-quality beef or steak strips. This will enhance the flavor and texture of your dish.
• Don’t Overcook the Vegetables: Sauté bell peppers and onions just until they are softened, retaining some crunch for better texture.
• Mix Cheese Thoroughly: Ensure cream cheese is well combined with beef broth to create a creamy sauce. This prevents clumps.
• Broil for Optimal Melt: Broil your cheese until bubbly and golden brown. This adds an appealing finish to your dish.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for optimal flavor balance.

Best Side Dishes for Philly Cheesesteak

Pairing side dishes with your Philly cheesesteak pasta can enhance the overall meal experience. Here are some ideal accompaniments that work wonderfully together.

1. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing adds a refreshing crunch.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini or carrots roasted to perfection complement the hearty pasta.
3. Sweet Potato Fries: These sweet and savory fries provide a delightful contrast to the rich flavors of the main dish.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers a crunchy texture and balances the creaminess of the pasta.
5. Brussels Sprouts: Sautéed or roasted Brussels sprouts add a nice bitterness that pairs well with cheesy dishes.
6. Macaroni Salad: A cold macaroni salad provides a nice contrast in temperature while keeping within the pasta theme.
7. French Fries: Classic fries are always a hit—perfect for dipping into any extra sauce!
8. Garlic Knots: Soft garlic knots brushed with butter are great for mopping up any leftover sauce on your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Philly cheesesteak pasta, there are a few common pitfalls to be aware of. Avoiding these mistakes will ensure your dish turns out delicious every time.

• Using the wrong pasta: Choosing a pasta shape that doesn’t hold sauce well can lead to a dry dish. Opt for penne or rigatoni for the best results.
• Overcooking the vegetables: Sautéing bell peppers and onions too long can make them mushy. Cook just until they are softened but still retain some crunch.
• Skipping seasoning: Not seasoning the beef and veggies can result in bland flavors. Always taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed.
• Not letting cheese melt properly: Broiling the cheese for just a short time can lead to uneven melting. Allow it enough time under the broiler to become bubbly and golden brown.
• Using cold cream cheese: Adding cold cream cheese directly can cause lumps in your sauce. Make sure it’s softened at room temperature for a smooth blend.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Philly cheesesteak pasta in an airtight container.
• It will keep well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Philly Cheesesteak

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
• This dish can be stored for up to 2 months.

Reheating Philly Cheesesteak

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place pasta in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes, or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place portions in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: Add leftovers to a skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, adding a splash of beef broth if it seems dry.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make this Philly Cheesesteak pasta gluten-free?

You can easily adapt this recipe by using gluten-free pasta. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Can I use other types of cheese instead of provolone?

Yes! You can substitute provolone with mozzarella or cheddar cheese based on your preference.

How spicy is this Philly cheesesteak pasta?

This recipe is not inherently spicy, but you can add sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes if you like some heat.

What is the best cut of beef for Philly cheesesteak?

For traditional cheesesteaks, ribeye is preferred due to its flavor and tenderness. However, ground beef works well in this pasta dish too!

Final Thoughts

This Philly cheesesteak pasta recipe combines comforting flavors and hearty ingredients into one delicious meal. It’s perfect for busy weeknights and offers plenty of customization options. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables or cheeses to make it your own!