Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Family-Friendly: The familiar flavors are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.
- Versatile: Easily adaptable with different proteins or vegetables to suit your preferences.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or thinly sliced steak strips
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz pasta (penne or rotini recommended)
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 8 oz provolone cheese, shredded
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced bell pepper and onion; sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Cook the Beef: Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet. Add ground beef or steak strips to the other side and cook until browned and fully cooked. Mix the beef with the vegetables.
- Prepare the Sauce: Sprinkle the beef and vegetable mixture with flour and stir to combine. Gradually add beef broth, heavy cream, and Worcestershire sauce, stirring continuously. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add the Cheeses: Reduce heat to low. Stir in shredded provolone and cream cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Serve hot, garnished with additional cheese if desired.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Protein Alternatives: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat alternatives for a different flavor profile.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace meat with sautéed mushrooms or other vegetables, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, cheddar, or even Cheez Whiz for a unique twist.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Allow leftovers to cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce. Stir occasionally until heated through.
FAQs
What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
Short, sturdy pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or cavatappi are ideal as they hold up well against the rich sauce and meat.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, while provolone is traditional, you can use mozzarella, sharp cheddar, or even Cheez Whiz for an authentic Philly touch.
How can I make this dish healthier?
Use lean ground beef or substitute with ground turkey or chicken. Incorporating more vegetables like mushrooms can also add nutrients.
Is this recipe spicy?
No, this dish is not inherently spicy. However, you can add red pepper flakes or hot sauce to increase the heat level.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, by using gluten-free pasta and ensuring all other ingredients are gluten-free, you can adapt this recipe accordingly.
How do I prevent the cheese from clumping?
Ensure the cheese is at room temperature and add it gradually over low heat, stirring continuously to achieve a smooth sauce.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the components ahead of time and combine them just before serving.
What side dishes pair well with Philly Cheesesteak Pasta?
A fresh green salad or steamed vegetables complement the richness of this dish.
How can I add more flavor to the sauce?
Adding a splash of red wine or using a blend of cheeses can enhance the depth of flavor.
Can I freeze leftovers?
It’s not recommended to freeze this dish as the creamy sauce may separate upon reheating.
Conclusion
Philly Cheesesteak Pasta offers a delectable combination of savory beef, creamy cheese, and tender pasta, making it a comforting and satisfying meal. Its versatility allows for various adaptations to suit different dietary preferences, ensuring it becomes a favorite in your recipe collection.
Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is a quick and easy fusion of the classic sandwich and hearty pasta. Featuring tender beef, sautéed veggies, and creamy cheese sauce, it’s a comforting, family-friendly meal perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or thinly sliced steak strips
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz pasta (penne or rotini recommended)
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 8 oz provolone cheese, shredded
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente, then drain and set aside. - Sauté the Vegetables:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced bell pepper and onion; cook for 5 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute. - Cook the Beef:
Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet. Add ground beef or steak strips to the other side, cooking until browned and fully done. Mix beef and vegetables together. - Prepare the Sauce:
Sprinkle the mixture with flour and stir. Gradually add beef broth, heavy cream, and Worcestershire sauce while stirring. Simmer until thickened, about 3-5 minutes. - Add the Cheeses:
Reduce heat to low. Stir in shredded provolone and cream cheese until melted and smooth. - Combine with Pasta:
Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet to coat evenly with the sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. - Serve:
Serve hot, garnished with extra cheese if desired.
Notes
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- or added flavor, consider a splash of red wine in the sauce.
- Short pasta shapes like cavatappi or rigatoni work well.
- To lighten the recipe, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half and use lean ground beef or turkey.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
