Introduction

Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is a comforting dish that combines the rich flavors of a classic cheesesteak sandwich with pasta's satisfying texture. This innovative recipe brings together tender beef, sautéed onions and peppers, and a cheesy sauce, all tossed with your favorite pasta for a meal that’s both hearty and indulgent.

Inspired by the iconic Philadelphia sandwich, this pasta version is perfect for any weeknight dinner. It’s quick to prepare yet delivers on flavor, making it an ideal choice for busy cooks. With every bite, you’ll enjoy the essence of a cheesesteak wrapped in creamy pasta goodness.

Whether you're a fan of the traditional sandwich or just looking for a fun new pasta dish, this recipe is sure to impress. Let’s dive into bringing this flavorful meal to your kitchen, where creativity and enjoyment await.

Ingredients

8 ounces fettuccine
Fettuccine provides a broad surface area to hold onto the creamy sauce, making every bite rich and satisfying. You can also substitute it with any pasta shape you prefer.
1 pound ribeye steak, thinly sliced
Ribeye is known for its rich marbling which adds tenderness and flavor to the dish. Thinly slicing the steak allows it to cook quickly and evenly, melding beautifully with the pasta.
1 large onion, sliced
Onions caramelize during cooking, imparting a sweet and savory flavor that complements the beef and adds depth to the sauce.
1 green bell pepper, sliced
The green bell pepper adds a crisp texture and a slightly bitter note, balancing the richness of the steak and cheese in the dish.
3 cloves garlic, minced
Garlic enhances the overall flavor with its aromatic qualities, bringing a fragrant depth to the dish that elevates the profile.
2 cups beef broth
Beef broth adds a savory base that enriches the sauce, providing moisture and flavor that ties all the ingredients together.
1 cup heavy cream
Heavy cream creates a luxurious, velvety sauce that clamps onto the pasta and beef, adding richness and helping to bind the flavors.
1 cup shredded provolone cheese
Provolone gives a mild, creamy taste that melts beautifully. Its gooey texture enhances the comfort factor of the dish, making it irresistibly cheesy.
Salt and pepper to taste
Seasoning brings out the flavors of each ingredient, ensuring a well-balanced dish. Adjusting to taste will enhance the enjoyment of every bite.
2 tablespoons olive oil
Olive oil is used for sautéing the vegetables and beef, adding flavor while preventing sticking during cooking.

Directions & Preparation

Step 1: Cook the fettuccine according to package instructions.

Cooking the pasta to al dente is crucial; it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the sauce later. This step ensures the pasta won't become mushy, maintaining a pleasant texture that complements the rest of the dish.

Step 2: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onions and bell pepper.

Sautéing the onions and bell peppers until softened allows their natural sugars to caramelize, developing a sweet flavor that enhances the dish. Stir frequently until they become tender and slightly browned.

Step 3: Add the thinly sliced ribeye steak to the skillet.

Adding the beef once the veggies are softened allows the steak to sear while still getting infused with the flavors from the onions and peppers. It’s important to spread it out in one layer for even cooking, ensuring it remains tender.

Step 4: Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.

Adding garlic at this stage prevents it from burning, which can create a bitter taste. Cooking it just until fragrant allows its aroma and flavor to permeate the beef and veggies, enhancing the overall taste.

Step 5: Pour in the beef broth and bring to a simmer.

The beef broth adds depth to the sauce, making it savory and rich. Allowing it to simmer concentrates the flavors while helping to tenderize the steak further.

Step 6: Add the heavy cream and stir to combine.

Incorporating heavy cream transforms the broth into a creamy sauce, providing the luscious texture characteristic of a cheesesteak. Stirring ensures that all ingredients are evenly distributed, preventing separation.

Step 7: Mix in the provolone cheese and stir until melted and smooth.

The cheese gives the dish its signature cheesesteak flavor while creating a gooey, indulgent sauce. Stirring until fully melted ensures that the cheese is well incorporated and prevents clumping.

Step 8: Combine the cooked fettuccine with the sauce, tossing to coat evenly.

Tossing the fettuccine with the creamy sauce ensures that every strand is covered, allowing the flavors to blend thoroughly. This step transforms the individual components into a cohesive dish.

Step 9: Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.

Final seasoning is essential for balancing the flavors in the dish. Taste-testing here allows you to personalize the dish according to your preferences.

Step 10: Serve immediately, garnished with additional cheese if desired.

Serving the dish right away ensures the pasta retains its creamy texture and the cheese remains melty. Garnishing adds a visual appeal, inviting everyone to dig into this delightful meal.

The Perfect Meat: Choosing Your Steak

Selecting the right cut of steak is vital for the utmost flavor in your Philly Cheesesteak Pasta. Ribeye is excellent due to its marbling, but sirloin or flank steak can also work well. Each brings its unique taste and texture, allowing for some personalization depending on what you have available. Thinly slicing the steak ensures it cooks evenly, contributing to a deliciously tender experience.

Customizing Your Cheesesteak Experience

One of the beauties of this dish lies in its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your family's tastes or introduce new ingredients. Experiment with adding mushrooms for an earthy twist or jalapeños for some heat. Different cheeses, like Cheez Whiz or American, can evoke the true essence of a classic cheesesteak, letting you play around with flavors that suit your palate.

Balancing Creaminess and Flavor

Achieving the right creamy consistency without overwhelming the dish is crucial. While heavy cream creates a luscious sauce, you can adjust the amount depending on your preference for richness. To lighten it up, consider substituting part of the cream with milk or adding more broth for a thinner sauce, allowing for the flavors of the beef and veggies to shine through without being drowned.

FAQs

What if my sauce is too thick?

If the sauce becomes too thick, gradually stir in additional beef broth or a splash of pasta cooking water until you reach your desired consistency.

How can I scale this recipe for a larger group?

To scale this recipe, simply multiply the quantities of each ingredient by the number of servings you need, maintaining the same cooking technique.

What can I use instead of ribeye?

You can substitute ribeye with sirloin or flank steak if preferred, keeping in mind that cook times may vary slightly depending on the cut's thickness.

How do I prevent the pasta from sticking?

Make sure to toss the pasta with olive oil right after cooking to prevent it from sticking together before mixing with the sauce.

What can I do if the flavor is bland?

If your dish tastes bland, try adding more salt, pepper, or garlic. A splash of balsamic vinegar can also enhance depth and flavor.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can swap provolone for other cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar, but be aware that it may alter the flavor profile.

Conclusion

Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is a dish that not only satisfies your craving for comfort food but also brings a new twist to a beloved classic. Every bite delivers a blend of rich flavors and textures that keep everyone coming back for more.

By customizing the ingredients to suit your taste, you'll create a family favorite in no time. Enjoy making this dish, and relish the delight it brings to your dinner table!

Recipe Card