If you’re looking for a comforting, flavorful, and easy-to-make dinner, this Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is the perfect solution. This dish brings together the savory flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak sandwich—tender steak, sautéed peppers and onions, and a creamy cheese sauce—and pairs them with pasta to create a hearty, satisfying meal. It’s a fun twist on a beloved classic that’s sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces pasta (penne, fusilli, or elbow macaroni work well)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ribeye steak, thinly sliced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder
- 1 1/2 cups shredded provolone cheese (or a mix of provolone and mozzarella)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. Al dente pasta is slightly firm to the bite, which is perfect for this recipe as it will hold up well when mixed with the sauce and steak. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 2: Sear the Steak
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the thinly sliced ribeye steak with salt and pepper. Place the steak slices in the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are browned and just cooked through. The ribeye steak is ideal for this recipe because of its rich, marbled texture, but you can substitute it with flank steak, sirloin, or even ground beef for a more economical option. Once the steak is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and green bell pepper. Cook the vegetables over medium heat for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and begin to caramelize. The sautéed onions and peppers give this dish that authentic Philly cheesesteak flavor, so don’t rush this step. As they soften, they’ll release their sweetness, which balances beautifully with the savory steak.
Next, add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for an additional 1 minute, just until fragrant. Garlic adds a depth of flavor that ties the dish together.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
To make the creamy sauce, reduce the heat to medium and add the beef broth to the skillet. The broth helps to deglaze the pan, picking up all the flavorful bits from the steak and vegetables. Stir in the heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard powder. These ingredients combine to create a rich, tangy sauce with a subtle kick from the mustard, mimicking the flavor profile of a Philly cheesesteak.
Let the sauce simmer for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it begins to thicken slightly. The cream will create a luscious texture that coats the pasta and steak beautifully.
Step 5: Combine the Ingredients
Return the cooked steak to the skillet, along with any juices that may have accumulated while it was resting. Stir the steak into the sauce, ensuring it is evenly coated. Next, add the drained pasta and toss everything together.
Now, it’s time for the cheese. Sprinkle the shredded provolone (or your mix of provolone and mozzarella) over the pasta and stir until the cheese is melted and fully incorporated into the sauce. The provolone adds a creamy, slightly sharp flavor that pairs perfectly with the steak, while the mozzarella adds a gooey, melty texture.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once the cheese has melted into the sauce, your Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is ready to serve. Dish it up while it’s hot, and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and a hint of freshness. Serve the pasta with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Cooking Notes:
- Steak Substitutes: If ribeye steak is too expensive or unavailable, you can substitute it with sirloin, flank steak, or even ground beef. Each option will provide slightly different textures and flavors, but all will work well in this dish.
- Pasta Varieties: Penne, fusilli, or elbow macaroni are all great options for this recipe. Their shape allows them to hold the creamy sauce well. However, feel free to use any pasta you have on hand.
- Cheese Variations: Provolone is the classic cheese used in Philly cheesesteaks, but you can mix it with mozzarella, cheddar, or even American cheese for a richer, creamier sauce.
Variations:
1. Spicy Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
For a spicier version, add 1/4 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce, or toss in some sliced jalapeños with the onions and peppers.
2. Vegetarian Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
Skip the steak and instead add sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based meat substitute. The mushrooms will provide a meaty texture and a rich umami flavor.
3. Cheeseburger Pasta
For a cheeseburger-inspired version, replace the ribeye steak with ground beef, and swap the Worcestershire sauce for a dash of ketchup and mustard. This variation is a fun twist that kids will love!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make this pasta ahead of time? A: Yes! You can cook the steak and make the sauce ahead of time. Store them separately from the pasta, and when ready to serve, reheat the sauce and combine it with freshly cooked pasta for the best texture.
Q: Can I use a different cheese? A: Absolutely. While provolone is traditional for a Philly cheesesteak, you can experiment with mozzarella, cheddar, or even a blend of cheeses for a different flavor profile.
Q: Can I freeze this dish? A: You can freeze the beef and sauce separately, but pasta tends to lose its texture after freezing. If you plan to freeze leftovers, it’s best to freeze the sauce and steak and cook fresh pasta when you’re ready to serve.
This Quick and Delicious Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is the ultimate fusion of two comfort food classics. With tender steak, sautéed onions and peppers, and a rich, cheesy sauce, this dish delivers all the flavors of a Philly cheesesteak in a cozy pasta form. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this pasta is sure to impress with its bold flavors and satisfying textures. Give it a try, and watch it become a family favorite
