Philly Cheesesteak Pasta

Looking for a quick and satisfying family meal? This Philly Cheesesteak Pasta combines savory ground beef, green peppers, mushrooms, and creamy provolone cheese. Paired with tender penne pasta, it’s the perfect hearty, fast dish! Ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prep, this recipe offers a delightful twist on classic flavors that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only 5 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious meal in no time.
• Family-Friendly: This dish is a crowd-pleaser, making it perfect for dinner with family or friends.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables or substitute proteins to suit your taste.
• Hearty and Satisfying: The combination of pasta and cheese creates a filling meal that keeps everyone satisfied.
• Easy Clean-Up: Made in one pot, this recipe minimizes dishes while maximizing flavor.

Tools and Preparation

For making Philly Cheesesteak Pasta, having the right tools makes all the difference. Here are some essentials you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Cooking spoon
• Measuring cups
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: A spacious skillet allows even cooking of all ingredients while preventing overcrowding.
• Cooking spoon: A sturdy spoon helps in stirring and mixing the ingredients efficiently.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures quick chopping of vegetables, saving time during preparation.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

• Penne pasta: 8 ounces

For the Sauce

• Ground beef: 1 pound
• Green bell pepper: 1 medium, sliced
• Mushrooms: 1 cup, sliced
• Onion: 1 medium, diced
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced

For the Cheese Sauce

• Cream cheese: 4 ounces
• Provolone cheese: 1 cup, shredded
• Beef broth: 1 cup

Seasonings

• Salt: to taste
• Black pepper: to taste

How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

Add sliced green peppers, mushrooms, onion, and minced garlic to the skillet. Stir occasionally until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce

Reduce heat to low and stir in cream cheese until melted. Gradually add beef broth while stirring continuously until smooth. Mix in shredded provolone cheese until fully melted.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add cooked penne pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together until pasta is well-coated with sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 6: Serve

Serve this delicious Philly Cheesesteak Pasta warm. Enjoy your flavorful meal!

How to Serve Philly Cheesesteak Pasta

Serving Philly Cheesesteak Pasta can be a delightful experience for the whole family. This dish is versatile and can be paired with various sides and garnishes to enhance its flavor.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a bright flavor and color to the dish.
• Basil leaves: Fresh basil can provide an aromatic touch that complements the cheesesteak flavors.

On a Bed of Greens

• Baby spinach: Serve your pasta over a bed of baby spinach for added nutrition and crunch.
• Arugula: The peppery taste of arugula contrasts nicely with the rich cheesiness of the pasta.

With Garlic Bread

• Toasted garlic bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate.
• Cheesy garlic knots: These delicious bites are an excellent addition, making your meal even more indulgent.

Accompanied by Salad

• Caesar salad: A classic Caesar salad provides a refreshing balance to the hearty pasta.
• Greek salad: The tangy flavors of feta cheese and olives offer a tasty contrast.

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How to Perfect Philly Cheesesteak Pasta

To make the best Philly Cheesesteak Pasta, consider these helpful tips:

• Choose quality ingredients: Using fresh vegetables and high-quality cheese enhances the overall flavor.
• Cook pasta al dente: This ensures your pasta retains some bite, creating a better texture.
• Sauté veggies properly: Cooking green peppers and mushrooms until tender brings out their natural sweetness.
• Mix cheeses for depth: Combining provolone with mozzarella can create a richer cheesy experience.
• Add seasoning wisely: Don’t forget salt, pepper, or even a pinch of paprika for extra flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Philly Cheesesteak Pasta

Pairing side dishes with Philly Cheesesteak Pasta elevates the meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crunchy and buttery garlic bread makes a perfect companion for this creamy dish.
2. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and brightness to balance the richness of the pasta.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide color and nutrients, complementing your main dish well.
4. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs make for a satisfying side option.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a fun, summery touch that’s hard to resist.
6. Caprese Salad: A fresh caprese salad with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil gives a refreshing contrast.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Philly Cheesesteak Pasta can be easy, but there are common mistakes that can impact the dish’s quality. Here are some tips to avoid them.

• Using low-quality meat: Always choose fresh, high-quality ground beef for the best flavor. Cheaper cuts may not provide the same taste or texture.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cook your penne just until al dente. Overcooking can lead to mushy pasta that doesn’t hold up well in the dish.
• Neglecting seasonings: Don’t skip on seasoning your ingredients. A pinch of salt and pepper can elevate the flavors significantly.
• Skipping the cheese: Provolone cheese is key to achieving that creamy texture. Omitting it will result in a less satisfying dish.
• Rushing the cooking process: Take your time to sauté vegetables properly. This step enhances their flavor and contributes to the overall taste of the pasta.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Philly Cheesesteak Pasta can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Philly Cheesesteak Pasta

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags to prevent freezer burn.
• You can freeze it for up to 2 months.

Reheating Philly Cheesesteak Pasta

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pasta in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer a single serving into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth along with the pasta. Stir frequently until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Philly Cheesesteak Pasta:

What is Philly Cheesesteak Pasta?

Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is a hearty meal combining ground beef, peppers, mushrooms, and creamy provolone cheese mixed with tender penne pasta.

Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Yes! You can substitute ground chicken or turkey for a lighter option while still enjoying great flavor.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

To make Philly Cheesesteak Pasta vegetarian, replace the ground beef with plant-based meat and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

What other cheeses work well in this recipe?

While provolone is traditional, you could also use mozzarella or cheddar for a different flavor profile.

Final Thoughts

Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is not only quick and easy but also versatile enough for family dinners or meal prep. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spices. Give this recipe a try and enjoy its comforting flavors!