When you think of comfort food, what comes to mind? For many, the iconic Philly cheesesteak stands out—a deliciously savory sandwich packed with tender steak, melted cheese, and sautéed vegetables.
Why We Love This Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Recipe
What makes this recipe so special? First, it’s the incredible fusion of flavors. You get the savory notes of beef, the sweetness of onions and bell peppers, and the creaminess of cheese all in one bowl. The combination is not only delicious but also satisfying without feeling heavy. Additionally, the ease of preparation means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying flavorful food with your loved ones.
One of the standout features of this recipe is its versatility. You can customize it according to your taste preferences. Whether you prefer more veggies, a different type of cheese, or even a spicier kick, this dish invites creativity. Plus, it’s a fantastic vehicle for utilizing leftover steak or pasta, making it a practical choice for busy home cooks.
Let’s dive into the details so you can enjoy this delicious Philly Cheesesteak Pasta in no time.
Ingredients about Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
Here’s what you’ll need to create your own delicious Philly Cheesesteak Pasta:
List of ingredients with measurements
- 1 pound short pasta (cavatappi, penne, or rotini)
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cups water
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 pound flank steak, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 ounces cream cheese, cubed
- 1/2 cup shredded provolone cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
With these easy-to-find ingredients, you’re just a few steps away from a comforting meal that everyone will rave about.
How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Directions
Now, let’s get started on making Philly Cheesesteak Pasta!
Cook the Pasta: In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the beef broth and water. Bring this mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Add your chosen short pasta to the boiling liquid and cook it according to the package directions until it’s al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. This step will allow the pasta to absorb some flavors from the broth.
Prepare the Steak: While the pasta is cooking, place a large skillet over medium heat. Melt the butter, and once it’s bubbling, add the thinly sliced flank steak. Sear the steak slices until they are browned on all sides, which should take about five minutes. Once cooked, remove the steak from the skillet and set it aside for later.
Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet where you cooked the steak, add the sliced green bell pepper and onion. Sauté these vegetables for around five minutes or until they soften and become fragrant. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, allowing its aroma to enhance the dish.
Combine Ingredients: After draining the pasta, be sure to reserve about half a cup of the pasta cooking water. Return the cooked pasta, sautéed vegetables, and cooked steak to the pot you used for pasta. Add the reserved pasta water, cream cheese, shredded provolone cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and black pepper. Stir everything together until the cream cheese melts and envelops the pasta and other ingredients in a creamy sauce.
Season and Serve: Finally, season the dish with salt to taste. Once everything is well combined and heated thoroughly, remove the pot from heat. Your Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is now ready to be served!
This process takes less than an hour, making it not only an enjoyable cooking experience but also a quick and delightful meal option for any day of the week.
How to Serve Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
Serving Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is not only about presenting the dish but also enhancing the experience. You might consider garnishing it with additional grated Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of flavor. Some people love to add a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, to brighten up the dish and add a vibrant color contrast.
Make sure to serve this dish warm, ideally right after preparation to savor the creamy texture at its best. Pair it with a light salad or some garlic bread for a well-rounded meal that’ll impress your guests or family. This dish is perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or even as a hearty lunch that keeps you satisfied throughout the day.
Expert Tips: Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
To ensure your Philly Cheesesteak Pasta turns out perfectly, here are a few expert tips to guide you:
Choose Quality Meat: Flank steak is a popular choice, but consider using ribeye or sirloin for even more tenderness and flavor. Just make sure to slice it thinly against the grain for the best texture.
Balance the Flavors: If you love a bit of spice, feel free to add some sliced jalapeños or a dash of crushed red pepper flakes to the sautéed vegetables for some heat.
Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Since you’ll combine the pasta with hot ingredients later, cooking it to al dente is crucial. This will keep the pasta firm and prevent it from becoming mushy.
Experiment with Cheeses: While provolone and Parmesan are delicious, you can swap in other cheeses like mozzarella or Gouda for a unique twist.
Following these tips will enhance your experience and elevate your dish to the next level.
How to Store Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
Storing leftovers properly is essential for enjoying your Philly Cheesesteak Pasta later. Allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator, where it will remain fresh for up to three days.
When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply reheat the pasta in a skillet over medium heat. If it seems a bit dry, adding a splash of beef broth or some water will help revive the creamy texture. Stir frequently to ensure even heating.
However, be mindful that the pasta may continue to absorb moisture, which can alter its texture after being stored. For the best taste experience, consider consuming it within three days.
Variations of Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
One of the best aspects of cooking is the ability to create variations of a beloved recipe. Here are a few ideas for customizing your Philly Cheesesteak Pasta:
Veggie-Loaded Version: Boost the nutritional content of your dish by adding more vegetables. Zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach can be great additions that complement the existing flavors.
Cheese Lover’s Version: If you can’t get enough cheese, try using multiple cheese types. Mixing in some cheddar or a sharp blue cheese adds exciting layers of taste.
Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy an intense flavor experience, incorporate some spicy sausage or pepper jack cheese. This changes the flavor profile and gives it a bold twist that pasta lovers will appreciate.
Different Pasta Shapes: While we recommend short pasta, feel free to experiment with other shapes such as fettuccine or farfalle. Different shapes can hold the creamy sauce differently, creating unique textures in every bite.
With these variations, you can make this dish your own and cater to the tastes of anyone at your table.
FAQ about Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for short pasta like cavatappi or penne, you can customize it with your favorite pasta shapes. Just keep an eye on cooking times to ensure the pasta is perfectly cooked.
Is it possible to make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the components of the dish ahead of time. Cook the pasta, prepare the steak and veggies, and store them separately. When you’re ready to serve, combine them with the sauce on the stovetop.
How can I make it vegetarian?
You can easily swap out the flank steak with sliced mushrooms or even seitan for a hearty yet plant-based variation. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for added flavor.
What should I serve with Philly Cheesesteak Pasta?
This dish is filling on its own, but you can serve it with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
Ingredients
Pasta and Broth
- 1 pound short pasta (cavatappi, penne, or rotini)
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cups water
Meat and Vegetables
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 pound flank steak, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Creamy Sauce
- 8 ounces cream cheese, cubed
- 1/2 cup shredded provolone cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the beef broth and water. Bring this mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Add your chosen short pasta to the boiling liquid and cook it according to the package directions until it's al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the pasta is cooking, place a large skillet over medium heat. Melt the butter, and once it’s bubbling, add the thinly sliced flank steak. Sear the steak slices until they are browned on all sides, which should take about five minutes. Once cooked, remove the steak from the skillet and set it aside.
- In the same skillet where you cooked the steak, add the sliced green bell pepper and onion. Sauté these vegetables for around five minutes or until they soften and become fragrant. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Combine and Serve
- After draining the pasta, be sure to reserve about half a cup of the pasta cooking water. Return the cooked pasta, sautéed vegetables, and cooked steak to the pot you used for pasta. Add the reserved pasta water, cream cheese, shredded provolone cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and black pepper. Stir everything together until the cream cheese melts.
- Season the dish with salt to taste, and once everything is well combined and heated thoroughly, remove the pot from heat. Your Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is now ready to be served!
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