Imagine the savory flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak combined with the comforting appeal of pasta. That’s exactly what this Philly Cheesesteak Pasta delivers! It’s a hearty, one-pan meal that transforms the iconic sandwich into a cheesy, satisfying pasta dish.
Loaded with tender beef, caramelized onions, sautéed bell peppers, and plenty of gooey cheese, this dish is a perfect dinner option for busy weeknights. The creamy sauce clings to the pasta, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. This recipe is easy to prepare, uses everyday ingredients, and is guaranteed to be a family favorite.
2. Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz penne or rigatoni pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb thinly sliced beef (ribeye or flank steak)
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup shredded Provolone cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
3. Directions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil pasta in salted water according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water and drain the rest.
- Sear the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the beef until browned, about 3–4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the onion, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper. Cook until softened, about 5–7 minutes. Add garlic and sauté for another minute.
- Make the Sauce: Melt butter in the skillet. Stir in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes. Slowly whisk in milk, ensuring no lumps form. Simmer until thickened.
- Add Cheese: Stir in Provolone, mozzarella, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Stir until the cheese melts into a smooth sauce.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked beef to the skillet along with the pasta. Toss to coat everything in the cheesy sauce. If needed, add reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley or extra cheese, and serve hot.
4. How to Prepare
- Thinly slice the beef and vegetables beforehand for quick cooking.
- Cook the beef in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet for a perfect sear.
- Continuously whisk the sauce while adding milk to achieve a creamy consistency.
- Adjust seasonings and spice levels to suit your taste.
5. Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
6. Servings
This recipe serves 4 hearty portions.
7. FAQs
Q1: Can I use ground beef instead of sliced steak?
A: Yes, ground beef works well as a substitute for sliced steak in this recipe.
Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: While it’s best fresh, you can store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Q3: What other cheeses can I use?
A: Cheddar, American cheese, or a mix of your favorites can replace Provolone and mozzarella.
Q4: Can I add mushrooms?
A: Absolutely! Sauté mushrooms with the onions and peppers for added flavor.
Q5: Is there a gluten-free option?
A: Use gluten-free pasta and substitute flour with cornstarch to make this dish gluten-free.
8. Conclusion
Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is a creative twist on a beloved classic that combines the bold flavors of a Philly cheesesteak with the comforting allure of creamy pasta. It’s a one-pan dish that’s easy to prepare, making it perfect for any busy evening or a cozy family meal.
The tender beef, sautéed veggies, and gooey cheese come together to create a dish that’s rich, satisfying, and utterly delicious. Serve it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad, and you’ve got a complete meal everyone will love. Try this recipe today, and enjoy a hearty dinner packed with flavor!