Introduction:
Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is a mouthwatering twist on the classic Philly cheesesteak sandwich, transforming it into a comforting pasta dish. This recipe combines tender strips of beef, sautéed bell peppers, onions, and a creamy, cheesy sauce, all tossed with pasta for a hearty and satisfying meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, Philly Cheesesteak Pasta brings together the rich flavors of a beloved sandwich with the comforting appeal of pasta, creating a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
1 lb ground beef
1 green bell pepper, diced
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
8 oz cream cheese
1 cup beef broth
1 cup heavy cream
2 cups shredded provolone cheese
1 lb pasta (penne or rigatoni)
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
Directions:
Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, cooking until the vegetables are soft, about 5 minutes.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cream cheese until melted and combined.
Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream, stirring until the mixture is smooth and heated through.
Add the shredded provolone cheese, stirring until melted and well incorporated.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the sauce.
Variations:
1. Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Pasta:
– Substitute thinly sliced chicken breast for beef.
– Follow the same cooking steps for a lighter protein option.
2. Vegetarian Philly Cheesesteak Pasta:
– Replace the beef with mushrooms or a plant-based meat substitute.
– Add extra vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or spinach for added flavor and nutrition.
3. Spicy Philly Cheesesteak Pasta:
– Add sliced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
– Use pepper jack cheese instead of provolone for a spicier, creamier sauce.
4. Low-Carb Philly Cheesesteak Pasta:
– Substitute pasta with zucchini noodles (zoodles) or spaghetti squash.
– Ensure the dish remains hearty while reducing the carb content.
5. Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Bake:
– Transfer the cooked pasta and sauce mixture to a baking dish.
– Top with additional cheese and bake at 375°F (190°C) until bubbly and golden brown.
Tips
1. Proper Slicing: For tender beef, slice it very thin against the grain. Partially freezing the beef can make it easier to slice.
2. Cheese Choice: Provolone and American cheese are traditional, but feel free to experiment with other melting cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar.
3. Cooking Pasta: Cook pasta al dente to ensure it doesn’t become mushy when mixed with the sauce.
4. Sautéing Vegetables: Sauté bell peppers and onions until they are tender and slightly caramelized to enhance their natural sweetness and flavor.
5. Creamy Sauce: For an extra creamy sauce, add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream when mixing the cheese with the pasta and beef.
6. Garnishing: Garnish with chopped parsley or fresh basil for a burst of color and added freshness.
By incorporating these variations and following these tips, you can create a delicious and customized Philly Cheesesteak Pasta that caters to your preferences and dietary needs.
Serve immediately and enjoy!