Introduction
Philly cheesesteak pasta merges two beloved comfort foods into one delightful dish. Imagine the savory flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak mingling with tender pasta and a creamy sauce that brings it all together. This recipe not only satisfies cravings but also presents a creative twist on traditional ingredients.
Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, this dish is both hearty and comforting. With its rich, cheesy flavor and the satisfying bite of the pasta, it promises to become a family favorite. Let’s dive into this delectable recipe that will have you craving more.
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
The base of the dish, penne pasta, provides a hearty, satisfying texture and is excellent at holding onto the creamy sauce. - 1 lb ribeye steak, thinly sliced
Ribeye is marbled with fat, making it rich and flavorful, which beautifully captures the essence of a traditional Philly cheesesteak. - 2 tbsp olive oil
Olive oil adds flavor and helps to sear the steak, locking in its juices, while also preventing sticking during the cooking process. - 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
Onions provide sweetness and depth to the dish, caramelizing to enhance the overall flavors and complementing the steak. - 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
The bell pepper adds a slight crunch and a hint of sweetness, balancing the savory elements of the dish. - 3 cloves garlic, minced
Garlic adds a pungent, aromatic element that elevates the overall taste, infusing the dish with depth and richness. - 1 cup beef broth
Beef broth enriches the sauce, adding savory depth and moisture to the pasta while helping to deglaze the pan. - 1 cup heavy cream
Heavy cream creates a luxurious, silky sauce, making each bite creamy and indulgent while also balancing the seasoning. - 1.5 cups provolone cheese, shredded
Provolone cheese melts beautifully, creating that quintessential cheesesteak experience, offering gooeyness and a mild flavor. - Salt and pepper, to taste
Essential for seasoning, salt and pepper heighten the flavors of all the ingredients, ensuring a well-rounded dish.
Directions & Preparation
Step 1: Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cooking the pasta until it is al dente ensures it will retain a firm texture, vital for standing up against the rich sauce. Drain the pasta but avoid rinsing; this retains the starch needed for the sauce to adhere well.
Step 2: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced ribeye and season with salt and pepper. Sear until browned, about 2-3 minutes.
Searing the ribeye quickly over high heat locks in its juices, creating a flavorful crust. The seasoning at this stage enhances the meat's natural flavor and sets the foundation for the sauce to come.
Step 3: Add the sliced onions and bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened.
Cooking the onions and bell peppers allows their natural sugars to caramelize, contributing sweetness and complexity. This also enhances the overall aroma, inviting everyone to the table.
Step 4: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Garlic cooks quickly and can burn, so adding it last ensures that it releases its aromatic oils without becoming bitter. This adds a robust flavor layer to the entire dish.
Step 5: Pour in the beef broth, stirring to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits. Let simmer for 3-4 minutes.
Deglazing the pan lifts flavorful bits stuck to the bottom, infusing the sauce with a deep, savory essence. Simmering encourages the flavors to meld while slightly thickening the liquid.
Step 6: Reduce the heat to low and add the heavy cream, stirring until combined.
Adding cream at a low temperature prevents it from curdling and ensures a smooth, unified sauce. It also enriches the dish with creaminess that complements the other ingredients.
Step 7: Gradually add the shredded provolone cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
Incorporating cheese gradually ensures it melts perfectly without clumping. This step is crucial for achieving the creamy texture characteristic of a good cheesesteak.
Step 8: Toss the cooked pasta in the sauce, mixing thoroughly to coat.
Coating the pasta in the sauce allows for even distribution of flavors, ensuring each bite is flavorful. This step also thickens the sauce as the pasta absorbs some liquid.
Step 9: Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if needed.
Always tasting and adjusting for seasoning is essential in cooking. This final check enhances the dish's balance and ensures it meets your personal flavor preferences.
Step 10: Serve immediately, garnishing with additional cheese or chopped parsley if desired.
Serving the pasta hot allows the cheese to remain gooey and delicious. Garnishes provide not just visual appeal but also a fresh note that complements the rich flavors.
Elevating Leftovers: Creative Uses for Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
Leftover Philly cheesesteak pasta can shine in various innovative ways. Consider transforming it into a baked dish by topping with more cheese and baking until bubbly. Alternatively, mix it with fresh vegetables for a satisfying cold pasta salad, adding a drizzle of olive oil and vinegar for a refreshing twist. This versatility ensures none of your delicious dish goes to waste.
Pairing Perfection: Best Sides for Your Pasta Dish
When it comes to sides, focus on lighter options to balance the richness of the pasta. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette provides a peppery contrast and freshness. Additionally, crusty garlic bread makes for a delightful accompaniment, perfect for soaking up extra sauce. These pairings enhance the meal without overshadowing the star attraction.
Making it a Family Affair: Involving Kids in Cooking
Philly cheesesteak pasta is a fantastic way to get the family involved in the kitchen. Kids can help with measuring ingredients, stirring the sauce, or even assembling their own pasta bowls. This interactive cooking experience fosters a love for food and encourages teamwork, turning mealtime into a fun family bonding activity.
FAQs
What if the sauce is too thick?
If your sauce turns out too thick, add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it. Stir over low heat until desired consistency is reached.
Can I use chicken or turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Chicken or turkey can be excellent substitutes, providing a lighter flavor while still keeping the dish hearty.
Is there a way to add more veggies?
For extra nutrition and flavor, consider adding mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini. Sauté them with the onions and peppers for a delicious twist.
What should I do if the flavor is too bland?
If the dish lacks flavor, try adding more seasoning, like smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce, to enhance the complexity.
Can I make this recipe in a one-pan format?
Yes! You can cook the pasta in the same pan with the sauce, adding it to the simmering mixture after initial meat and veggies are sautéed.
How can I make the sauce lighter?
To lighten the sauce, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream or reducing the amount of cheese while maintaining flavor.
Conclusion
Philly cheesesteak pasta combines comfort and indulgence in every creamy, cheesy bite. It’s a dish that not only satisfies hunger but also brings a bit of fun into the kitchen.
Whether you're sharing it at the dinner table or enjoying a bowl by yourself, this recipe is sure to impress. Don’t hesitate to get creative and make it your own!
Recipe Card
Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Pasta for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb ribeye steak thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion thinly sliced
- 1 bell pepper thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1.5 cups provolone cheese shredded
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced ribeye and season with salt and pepper. Sear until browned, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the sliced onions and bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the beef broth, stirring to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits. Let simmer for 3-4 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to low and add the heavy cream, stirring until combined.
- Gradually add the shredded provolone cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Toss the cooked pasta in the sauce, mixing thoroughly to coat.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if needed.
- Serve immediately, garnishing with additional cheese or chopped parsley if desired.
Notes
Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance.
For make-ahead, prep components separately and assemble just before heating to preserve texture.
Taste and adjust with acid (lemon/vinegar) and salt right at the end to wake up flavors.
