Introduction to Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
When I think of comfort food, my mind often drifts to the rich, savory flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak. Now, imagine transforming that beloved sandwich into a creamy, dreamy pasta dish. That’s where Philly Cheesesteak Pasta comes in!
This recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights or when you want to impress your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s quick, satisfying, and packed with all the flavors you crave. Trust me, once you try this dish, it’ll become a staple in your dinner rotation!
Why You’ll Love This Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
This Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is a game-changer for your dinner table.
It’s not just about the creamy goodness; it’s about how quickly you can whip it up.
In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a hearty meal that satisfies even the pickiest eaters.
Plus, the combination of tender steak, vibrant veggies, and gooey cheese makes every bite a flavor explosion.
It’s comfort food at its finest, and who doesn’t love that?
Ingredients for Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
Creating the perfect Philly Cheesesteak Pasta starts with gathering the right ingredients.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Penne pasta: This tubular pasta holds onto the creamy sauce beautifully, making every bite satisfying.
- Olive oil: A splash of this liquid gold adds flavor and helps sauté the veggies.
- Onion: Sliced onions bring sweetness and depth to the dish, enhancing the overall flavor.
- Bell pepper: Any color works! These add a pop of color and a slight crunch.
- Sirloin steak: Thinly sliced, this tender cut is the star of the show, delivering that classic cheesesteak taste.
- Garlic: Minced garlic infuses the dish with aromatic goodness, elevating the flavor profile.
- Worcestershire sauce: Just a dash adds a savory umami kick that ties everything together.
- Beef broth: This forms the base of your creamy sauce, adding richness and depth.
- Heavy cream: The secret to that luscious, creamy texture that makes this dish irresistible.
- Provolone cheese: Shredded provolone melts beautifully, creating that gooey cheesiness we all love.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning, these simple ingredients enhance all the flavors.
- Fresh parsley: Chopped for garnish, it adds a fresh touch and a pop of color.
Feel free to get creative!
For a lighter version, swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative.
You can also toss in sliced mushrooms or jalapeños for an extra flavor kick.
Exact quantities for each ingredient are listed at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
Making Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is a breeze!
Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
Let’s dive in!
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling a pot of salted water.
Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
This usually takes about 8-10 minutes.
Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
Don’t forget to save a splash of that pasta water; it can help adjust the sauce later!
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Add the sliced onion and bell pepper, cooking until they soften, about 5-7 minutes.
Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
The aroma of sautéing veggies is simply irresistible!
Step 3: Brown the Steak
Next, add the thinly sliced sirloin steak to the skillet.
Cook it until browned, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
Make sure to stir it around so it cooks evenly.
Then, toss in the minced garlic and Worcestershire sauce, cooking for another minute.
This step adds a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist!
Step 4: Create the Sauce
Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine everything.
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Let it cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
You’ll notice the creamy texture starting to form, and it’s going to be delicious!
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Now, it’s time to bring it all together.
Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet, along with half of the provolone cheese.
Mix everything until well combined.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
This is where the magic happens!
Step 6: Melt the Cheese
Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the remaining provolone cheese on top.
Cover the skillet with a lid for 2-3 minutes.
This will help the cheese melt beautifully, creating that gooey texture we all love.
The anticipation is real!
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Finally, garnish your Philly Cheesesteak Pasta with chopped fresh parsley.
This adds a pop of color and freshness.
Serve it hot, and watch your family dig in with delight.
Trust me, they won’t be able to resist!
Tips for Success
- Always salt your pasta water; it enhances the flavor of the pasta.
- Don’t overcook the steak; it should be tender and juicy.
- For extra creaminess, reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency.
- Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or spices.
- Let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving; it helps the flavors meld.
Equipment Needed
- Large pot: For boiling pasta. A deep skillet can work too.
- Skillet: A non-stick skillet is ideal for sautéing and sauce-making.
- Colander: For draining pasta. A slotted spoon can be a handy alternative.
- Measuring cups: Essential for accuracy, but you can eyeball it if you’re confident!
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the sirloin steak for sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based meat alternative for a delicious vegetarian twist.
- Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of red pepper flakes to the sautéed vegetables for some heat.
- Cheese Lovers: Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or gouda for a unique flavor profile.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Extra Veggies: Toss in spinach, zucchini, or broccoli for added nutrition and color.
Serving Suggestions
- Garlic Bread: Serve with warm, buttery garlic bread for a delightful crunch.
- Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta.
- Wine Pairing: Enjoy with a glass of red wine, like Cabernet Sauvignon, to enhance the flavors.
- Presentation: Serve in a large bowl, garnished with extra parsley and a sprinkle of cheese for a beautiful touch.
FAQs about Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
Can I make Philly Cheesesteak Pasta ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of beef broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
What can I substitute for sirloin steak?
If sirloin isn’t your thing, feel free to use flank steak or even chicken. For a vegetarian option, sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based meat alternative work wonderfully!
How can I make this dish spicier?
For a spicy kick, add sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes when sautéing the vegetables. It’ll give your Philly Cheesesteak Pasta a delightful heat!
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make this dish gluten-free by using gluten-free penne pasta. Just check the labels to ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
Can I freeze Philly Cheesesteak Pasta?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container. When ready to eat, thaw and reheat on the stovetop, adding a bit of cream to revive the sauce.
Final Thoughts
Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and joy to the dinner table.
Each creamy bite transports you to a cozy kitchen filled with laughter and the aroma of sizzling steak and sautéed veggies.
Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy.
It’s quick enough for a weeknight but special enough for gatherings.
So, roll up your sleeves, grab your ingredients, and let the magic happen.
Trust me, once you serve this dish, it’ll become a cherished favorite in your home!
PrintPhilly Cheesesteak Pasta: A Creamy Dinner Delight!
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is a creamy and delicious dish that combines the classic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak with pasta for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced (any color)
- 8 ounces sirloin steak, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup provolone cheese, shredded
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and bell pepper, cooking until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the thinly sliced sirloin steak to the skillet and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and Worcestershire sauce, cooking for an additional minute.
- Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Stir in the cooked penne pasta and half of the provolone cheese, mixing until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove from heat and sprinkle the remaining provolone cheese on top. Cover the skillet with a lid for 2-3 minutes to melt the cheese.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative.
- Add sliced mushrooms or jalapeños for extra flavor and texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg