Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is a delightful fusion of the classic Philly cheesesteak sandwich and comforting pasta. This dish brings together savory ground beef, sweet onions, crunchy bell peppers, and creamy, gooey cheeses to create a meal that’s both hearty and delicious. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you crave something rich and satisfying. The combination of flavors and textures will remind you of a traditional cheesesteak but with the added comfort of pasta. Simple to prepare and incredibly tasty, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil: For sautéing the beef and vegetables.
- 1 pound of ground beef: Provides a hearty and flavorful protein base.
- ½ yellow or sweet onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning.
- 2 teaspoons of Worcestershire sauce: Adds a tangy, savory flavor.
- 1 green bell pepper, diced: Adds color, crunch, and a slight sweetness.
- 8 ounces of elbow macaroni, uncooked: The pasta base that holds the dish together.
- 1 cup of water: Helps cook the pasta.
- 14.5 ounce can of beef broth (or 2 cups beef broth): Adds rich, beefy flavor.
- ½ cup of 2% milk: Creates a creamy texture.
- 2 ounces of cream cheese, cubed: Adds creaminess and richness.
- ½ cup of shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into the dish, adding gooey cheese goodness.
- 6 to 8 ounces of provolone cheese, sliced and torn: Provides the classic cheesesteak flavor.
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish: Adds a pop of color and freshness.
Instructions
- Sauté and Season:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 pound of ground beef and ½ diced yellow or sweet onion. Cook until the beef is browned and the onions are soft, about 5-7 minutes.
- Season with salt, pepper, and 2 teaspoons of Worcestershire sauce, stirring to combine.
- Add the Goodness:
- Stir in 1 diced green bell pepper, 8 ounces of uncooked elbow macaroni, 1 cup of water, and a 14.5-ounce can of beef broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Creamy Cheesy Bliss:
- Keeping the skillet over low heat, add ½ cup of 2% milk and 2 ounces of cubed cream cheese. Stir until the cream cheese melts and blends into a creamy sauce.
- Sprinkle in ½ cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and half of the torn provolone cheese. Stir until the cheeses are melted and fully incorporated into the sauce.
- Cheese on Top:
- Finish off your masterpiece by topping it with the remaining torn provolone cheese. Cover the skillet for a couple of minutes to let the cheese melt into gooey goodness.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle the dish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve hot and enjoy the irresistible flavors of this Philly Cheesesteak Pasta.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
- Calories: 520
- Fat: 29g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 980mg
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 27g
Serving
Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is best served hot, straight from the skillet. This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad and some crusty bread to soak up the creamy, cheesy sauce. For a complete meal, serve it alongside roasted vegetables or a light soup. This pasta dish is perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or even a cozy night in.
Notes
- Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef to reduce excess fat, but any ground beef will work well.
- Pasta: Elbow macaroni is traditional, but you can substitute with other small pasta shapes like penne or rotini.
- Cheese: Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents.
- Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables such as mushrooms or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the beef and vegetable mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, proceed with adding the pasta and other ingredients.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat? Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a different flavor and nutritional profile.
Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely! Feel free to use any small pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or shells. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
How do I make this dish gluten-free? To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and ensure that the Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free as well.
What if I don’t have cream cheese? You can substitute cream cheese with mascarpone or even a thick Greek yogurt for a slightly tangier taste.
Can I add more vegetables? Yes, additional vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini can be added to the dish. Sauté them along with the onions and bell peppers for the best results.
How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.
Can I freeze this dish? Yes, you can freeze this dish. Let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
What can I serve with this dish? Philly Cheesesteak Pasta pairs well with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables. For a heartier meal, serve it with a bowl of soup or a light appetizer.
Can I use a different type of cheese? Yes, feel free to experiment with different types of cheese such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Swiss. Adjust the amounts to suit your taste.
How do I make this dish spicier? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the beef mixture for a spicy kick.
In conclusion, Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is a delightful and hearty dish that brings the classic flavors of a cheesesteak into a comforting pasta format. With its creamy, cheesy sauce and flavorful beef and vegetables, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Enjoy making and sharing this delicious meal with your family and friends!