Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Recipe

Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is a hearty, cheesy delight that brings all the iconic flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak sandwich into a cozy, family-friendly pasta dish. It’s a creamy, savory combination of tender beef, sautéed bell peppers and onions, and gooey cheese, all wrapped around perfectly cooked pasta.

Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight meal or a dish to wow at a potluck, this recipe has you covered. Plus, you can make it your own with simple swaps and customizations!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Combines the comfort of pasta with the bold flavors of a Philly cheesesteak.
• Perfect for family dinners or meal prep.
• Can be made in a slow cooker, skillet, or even with tortellini for a twist.
• Flexible and customizable to fit your taste preferences.

Ingredients for Philly Cheesesteak Pasta

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this mouthwatering meal:

Meat Options: Ground Beef or Steak Strips

• Ground beef: Quick to cook and easy to mix into the sauce.
• Steak strips: For a more authentic Philly cheesesteak vibe, use ribeye or sirloin.
• Optional seasonings: Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Worcestershire sauce for extra depth.

Vegetables: The Essential Philly Cheesesteak Staples

• Green bell peppers and onions: Sautéed for sweetness and flavor.
• Optional add-ins: Mushrooms for umami or red bell peppers for added sweetness and color.

Cheese Choices

• Provolone cheese: Melts perfectly and adds that classic cheesesteak tang.
• Cream cheese: Creates a rich, velvety sauce.
• Optional substitutes: Mozzarella for a mild option or cheddar for a sharper taste.

Pasta Base

• Penne or rigatoni: Perfect for holding onto the creamy sauce.
• Alternatives: Try tortellini for an extra cheesy twist.

Beef Broth

• Adds depth and helps create a luxurious sauce. Vegetable or chicken broth works too, but beef is ideal for that robust flavor.

How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Pasta

1. Cook the Pasta

• Boil a large pot of salted water. (Tip: 1 tablespoon of salt per 4-6 quarts of water.)
• Add 12 oz of penne or rigatoni and cook al dente according to package instructions.
• Drain the pasta and set aside. Avoid rinsing so the sauce clings better.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

• Dice 1 green bell pepper and 1 onion into small, even pieces.
• Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Sauté the onions and bell peppers for 4-5 minutes until soft and fragrant. Add minced garlic during the last minute.

Tip: If you’re adding mushrooms or red peppers, sauté them with the onions and bell peppers.

3. Cook the Meat

• Add 1 lb of ground beef or steak strips to the skillet. Cook over medium heat until browned.
• Season with salt, pepper, and optional garlic powder or Worcestershire sauce.
• Drain excess fat if using ground beef.

4. Make the Creamy Sauce

• Add 8 oz of softened cream cheese to the skillet, stirring until it melts.
• Pour in 1 cup of beef broth and mix until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Adjust consistency with more broth if needed.

Troubleshooting Tip: If the cream cheese curdles, reduce heat and stir continuously.

5. Combine Pasta and Sauce

• Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing until well coated.
• Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded provolone cheese on top.

6. Broil for a Golden Finish

• Place the skillet under the broiler for 3-5 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
• Keep a close eye to prevent burning.

Customization Ideas

Meat Substitutions

• Vegetarian: Use mushrooms or plant-based meat.
• Lighter option: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken.

Cheese Variations

• Mix in cheddar, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick.
• Vegan cheese works great for a dairy-free option.

Pasta Swaps

• Whole wheat pasta or gluten-free options make it healthier.
• Tortellini adds an indulgent, cheesy twist.

Slow Cooker Philly Cheesesteak Pasta

For a hands-off version:

• Sauté the vegetables and meat as usual.
• Add everything (except pasta and provolone) to a slow cooker.
• Cook on low for 4-6 hours. Stir in cooked pasta and top with provolone during the last 30 minutes.

Nutrition and Tips for a Healthier Version

A serving of Philly Cheesesteak Pasta typically has around 650 calories, but you can make it lighter by:

• Using light cream cheese and reduced-fat cheese.
• Incorporating more vegetables like spinach or zucchini.
• Swapping beef for leaner proteins like turkey or chicken.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a crisp green salad for balance.
• Serve with garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
• Garnish with parsley or parmesan for a finishing touch.

FAQs

Related Recipes

If you loved this recipe, check out:

• Do Italians Put Basil on Pizza?
• Best Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
• Pasta alla Norma: A Traditional Sicilian Delight

Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is the ultimate comfort food mashup that will have your family asking for seconds. Whether you make it in a skillet, slow cooker, or with a twist like tortellini, it’s sure to be a hit.

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