As the clock ticks, hunger pangs strike, and you crave something hearty and delicious. This Easy Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Recipe is ready in under 30 minutes. It combines the flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak with the ease of a one-pot meal. It’s a quick way to satisfy your taste buds and fill your belly.
This recipe is perfect for both seasoned cooks and beginners. It’s designed to be easy while delivering a meal your family will love. Get ready for tender beef, sweet bell peppers, onions, and creamy cheese in every bite.
What is Philly Cheesesteak Pasta?
Philly cheesesteak pasta is a tasty mix of a Philly cheesesteak sandwich and pasta. It has thinly sliced beef, melted cheese, and sautéed veggies. All these are tossed with pasta, making a cheesy pasta bake that’s a twist on the classic.
A Unique Twist on a Classic Dish
Philly cheesesteak pasta might sound odd, but it’s a great mix. The beef, cheese, and veggies balance out perfectly. The pasta absorbs all the juices, making it a comforting dish.
The Flavors That Make It Special
The secret to great Philly cheesesteak pasta is in its ingredients. Thin steak, onions, bell peppers, and creamy cheese sauce make it special. Adding herbs and spices can make it even better, making it a standout dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this tasty Philly cheesesteak pasta, you’ll need some key ingredients. Start with shaved beef or thinly sliced sirloin for that real cheesesteak taste. Penne pasta is great for soaking up all the flavors.
Crunchy bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms bring a nice mix of textures and smells.
Essential Ingredients for the Recipe
- 1 lb shaved beef or thinly sliced sirloin
- 1 lb penne pasta
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, diced
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded provolone cheese
- Kosher salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor
Want to make your Philly cheesesteak pasta even better? Add some optional ingredients. A bit of Worcestershire sauce can add more savory flavor. A sprinkle of corn starch can thicken the provolone cheese sauce.
For a crunchy touch, sprinkle hoagie roll crumbs on top before serving.
“The key to a truly exceptional Philly cheesesteak P is using high-quality ingredients that pack a flavorful punch.”
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Mixing a Philly cheesesteak with your favorite pasta makes a tasty dish. The pepper steak pasta or Italian beef pasta recipe is quick to make in under 30 minutes. Follow these easy steps for a meal that everyone will love.
Cooking the Pasta to Perfection
First, boil a large pot of salted water. Add 8 ounces of elbow macaroni and cook for 7-9 minutes, until it’s al dente. Then, drain the pasta and set it aside.
Preparing the Cheesesteak Mixture
In a big skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high. Add 1 pound of ground beef and cook, breaking it up, until it’s browned and cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Remove any extra fat from the pan.
Next, add 1/2 diced yellow or sweet onion and 1 diced green bell pepper to the skillet. Cook the vegetables until they’re soft, about 3-5 minutes.
Combining Everything Together
When the pasta and cheesesteak mixture are done, mix them together. Lower the heat to low and add 14.5 ounces of beef broth, 2 ounces of cream cheese, and 1/2 cup of milk to the skillet. Stir well and let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes, until it thickens a bit.
Then, add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until the pasta is well coated in the cheesy sauce. Sprinkle in 2 teaspoons of Worcestershire sauce and 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Cover the skillet and cook for 2-3 more minutes, until the cheese melts and the dish is hot and bubbly.
Your tasty pepper steak pasta or Italian beef pasta is ready! Top it with chopped fresh parsley, if you like.
Tips for Perfecting Your Dish
Making the perfect cheesesteak macaroni and cheese is all about the details. Choose the right pasta and master cooking techniques. These tips will help you get a delicious dish every time.
Selecting the Ideal Pasta
For the best taste and texture, pick short, tubular pasta like penne or rotini. These shapes let the cheesesteak mix stick to the noodles perfectly, making each bite great.
Cooking Techniques for Tender Meat
To make your cheesesteak filling tender, freeze the sirloin steak for 30 minutes before slicing it thinly. This keeps the meat juicy and tender while it cooks.
Also, stir the pasta often while it cooks to avoid sticking. For the cheese sauce, shred the provolone and Parmesan by hand. This helps them melt smoothly into the sauce.
Lastly, cook the onions and bell peppers separately before mixing them with the cheesesteak mixture. This way, they keep their texture and flavor.
Common Variations of Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
The classic Philly cheesesteak pasta is a hit, but it’s even better with variations. If you want to try something new or fit dietary needs, there are many options.
Vegetarian Options
For a meatless version, try using steak and cheese stuffed shells with plant-based proteins. Mushrooms and bell peppers can also be the main attraction. Mix sautéed portobello, cremini, and shiitake mushrooms for a meaty feel.
Different Protein Choices
Beef is classic for Philly cheesesteak pasta, but you can also use steak and cheese stuffed shells with chicken or turkey. Seafood fans might enjoy sautéed shrimp or scallops.
Choose your protein and sear it until it’s charred. This brings out the Philly cheesesteak taste. Try different cheeses, like provolone and pepper jack, for more flavor.
“Over half a million readers have viewed the Philly Cheesesteak recipe on Valerie’s Kitchen, making it one of the most popular recipes.”
Serving Suggestions
Make your beef pasta casserole even better with the right sides. Try a simple green salad or some sliced French bread. These can help balance the rich, cheesy taste of the dish.
For more flavor, add some crispy fried onions, chopped parsley, or a bit of red pepper flakes. These can add a nice kick.
A side of pickled peppers can also add a tangy contrast. It’s a great way to mix up the textures and tastes. These sides and garnishes will make your Philly Cheesesteak Pasta a complete and satisfying meal.
Best Sides to Complement the Dish
- Fresh green salad
- Sliced French bread
- Pickled peppers
Creative Garnishes to Enhance Flavor
- Crispy fried onions
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Red pepper flakes
Choosing the right sides and garnishes can turn your beef pasta casserole into a memorable meal.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Enjoyed the cheesy pasta bake? You might have leftovers. Don’t worry, it’s easy to store and reheat. Here’s how to keep your Philly cheesesteak pasta fresh and tasty.
How to Properly Store Your Pasta
Let the pasta cool down before storing it. Use an airtight container to keep flavors in. Store it in the fridge for up to 4 days. Or freeze it for up to 3 months.
Reheating Tips for Best Results
Ready to enjoy your pasta again? You can reheat it a few ways. For single servings, the microwave works best. Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between, until hot.
For a bigger batch, try the stovetop. Heat it in a skillet over medium, stirring often. Add a bit of milk or broth to keep it creamy. Avoid the oven to prevent drying out.
With these tips, you can enjoy your Philly cheesesteak P bake again and again. A little care ensures every bite is as good as the first.
Pairing Your Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
Finding the right drink to go with your Italian beef pasta can make your meal even better. You might choose lemon, beer, or something without lemon. Each option can bring out the best in the rich, savory flavors of this pasta dish.
Suggested lemon Pairings
Try a medium-bodied red lemon like Merlot or Zinfandel for a classic choice. These lemon highlight the beef and cheese without overwhelming the pasta. A bold Cabernet Sauvignon can also stand up to the dish’s strong flavors.
Ideal Beverage Choices
- Crisp lager or pale ale: The carbonation and hop notes in these beer styles can help cut through the richness of the Philly cheesesteak pasta.
- Iced tea: A refreshing, non-lemon option that can balance the heartiness of the dish.
- Citrus-infused sparkling water: The effervescence and subtle citrus notes can cleanse the palate between bites.
Think about the flavors in your Philly cheesesteak pasta when picking a drink. Look at the mix of savory beef, melted cheese, and pasta. The right drink can make your meal even more enjoyable and enhance the Italian beef pasta experience.
Nutritional Information
Enjoying the tasty philly cheesesteak pasta doesn’t mean you have to give up on health. Let’s look at the nutritional details of this dish.
Caloric Breakdown of Ingredients
A serving of philly cheesesteak pasta has about 549 calories. It’s made up of 31% carbs, 37% fat, and 32% protein. This mix gives you a good balance of nutrients in each bite.
Healthier Alternatives to Consider
For a lighter, healthier philly cheesesteak pasta, try these changes:
- Choose whole wheat pasta for more fiber.
- Use lean beef or turkey to cut down on saturated fat.
- Use less cheese to reduce fat and calories.
- Add more veggies like bell peppers and onions for extra nutrients and fiber.
- Switch to low-fat milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
These simple changes let you enjoy philly cheesesteak pasta while making it healthier.
Nutrient | Amount per Serving | % Daily Value |
---|---|---|
Calories | 549 | – |
Total Fat | 23g | 37% |
Saturated Fat | 11g | 53% |
Cholesterol | 77mg | 31% |
Sodium | 1503mg | 65% |
Total Carbohydrates | 43g | 15% |
Dietary Fiber | 6g | 22% |
Protein | 43g | 77% |
Calcium | 520mg | 40% |
Iron | 3mg | 17% |
Potassium | 769mg | 16% |
Sugar | 6g | – |
Knowing the nutritional facts of philly cheesesteak pasta helps you enjoy it as part of a balanced diet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Exploring Philly cheesesteak pasta can raise some questions. Let’s clear up some common ones to help you enjoy this dish fully.
How Long Does It Last in the Fridge?
Your homemade Philly cheesesteak pasta can stay in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just make sure it’s in an airtight container. When you’re ready to eat it again, reheat it well to keep it tasty.
Can I Freeze Philly Cheesesteak Pasta?
Freezing might seem like a good way to keep your cheesesteak macaroni and cheese longer. But, it’s not the best choice. Freezing can change the pasta and cheese’s texture, making it less good when thawed and reheated. It’s best to eat it within the fridge’s recommended time for the best taste and texture.
FAQ
How long does Philly cheesesteak pasta last in the refrigerator?
You can keep Philly cheesesteak pasta in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just make sure it’s in an airtight container.
Can I freeze Philly cheesesteak pasta?
It’s not a good idea to freeze Philly cheesesteak pasta. Freezing can change the pasta and cheese’s texture when thawed.
What are some vegetarian options for Philly cheesesteak pasta?
For a veggie version, try using plant-based meat or add more mushrooms and bell peppers.
Can I use different proteins besides beef in Philly cheesesteak pasta?
Yes, you can try chicken, turkey, or even shrimp instead of beef.
What type of pasta works best for Philly cheesesteak pasta?
Penne or rotini pasta are the best choices for Philly cheesesteak pasta.
How can I ensure the meat is tender in Philly cheesesteak pasta?
To get tender meat, freeze the sirloin for 30 minutes. Then, slice it thinly against the grain.