Introduction

Philly cheesesteak is a beloved sandwich that brings together the rich flavors of beef, cheese, and sautéed vegetables. Now, imagine capturing all of that mouthwatering goodness in a pasta dish. Philly Cheesesteak Pasta takes the essence of this classic sandwich and transforms it into a comforting meal the whole family will love.

With its hearty combination of ingredients, this dish merges textures and tastes in a delightful way, making it not only satisfying but also quick to prepare. Perfect for busy weeknights, it promises flavor that bursts with each bite.

In this recipe, tender pasta beautifully cradles strips of seasoned beef, melted cheese, and vibrant veggies, ensuring that every forkful captivates. Let’s dive into this culinary adventure and explore how to create a delicious plate of Philly Cheesesteak Pasta right in your home.

Ingredients

12 oz penne pasta
Penne pasta is the ideal shape for this dish as its ridges hold the sauce and ingredients well, ensuring every bite is flavorful. Its tubular form also contrasts beautifully with the tender beef strips.
1 lb thinly sliced ribeye steak
Ribeye steak is marbled with fat, which adds richness and flavor to the dish. Slicing it thinly allows for quick cooking, making it tender and easy to chew, mirroring the classic cheesesteak experience.
1 tablespoon olive oil
Olive oil not only aids in cooking the steak and vegetables, but it also adds a subtle fruitiness to the dish. Its high smoke point makes it perfect for searing the beef to perfection.
1 medium onion, sliced
Onions bring sweetness and depth to the dish as they caramelize, balancing the richness of the steak. Their texture adds a lovely crunch that contrasts with softer components.
1 bell pepper, sliced
Bell peppers add a vibrant color and a fresh sweetness to the dish. They also provide a crunchy texture that enhances the overall mouthfeel, making each bite more exciting.
3 cloves garlic, minced
Garlic is crucial for infusing the dish with aromatic flavors. Its bold taste complements the beef and vegetables beautifully, creating a cohesive flavor profile.
1 cup beef broth
Beef broth serves as a flavorful base for the sauce, amplifying the beef’s taste and adding moisture to the dish. It also ties together the various components, ensuring a savory experience.
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
This sauce provides depth and umami, enhancing the overall flavor of the beef and creating a complexity that sings of classic cheesesteak elements.
1 ½ cups provolone cheese, shredded
Provolone is the classic cheese for a Philly cheesesteak, offering a creamy melt and mild flavor. When melted over the pasta, it creates that gooey texture that makes the dish irresistible.
Salt and pepper to taste
Seasoning is essential for enhancing all the flavors of the dish. Salt brings out the natural taste of the ingredients, while pepper adds a hint of warmth and spice.

Directions & Preparation

Step 1: Cook the pasta according to package instructions.

Start by boiling water with a generous amount of salt. Once at a rolling boil, add the penne pasta and cook until al dente. This ensures the pasta retains its bite even after it mixes with the sauce, creating a perfect balance in texture.

Step 2: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Warming the oil properly before adding the steak is crucial. A hot skillet helps to sear the meat quickly, allowing the outside to brown while keeping the inside tender. This step lays the foundation for rich, beefy flavors.

Step 3: Sauté the onions and bell peppers until tender.

Adding onions and peppers to the hot skillet allows them to caramelize, showcasing their natural sugars and enhancing their flavors. This step builds the aromatic base of the dish, complementing the steak beautifully.

Step 4: Add garlic and cook until fragrant.

Garlic cooks quickly, so adding it after the vegetables ensures it maintains its bold flavor. Stir it in until it's fragrant, as this step adds an essential layer of aroma and taste, elevating the dish significantly.

Step 5: Add the sliced ribeye steak to the skillet.

Incorporating the steak at this stage allows it to mingle with the already sautéed veggies, creating a harmonious flavor blend. Cooking it just enough to brown it ensures the meat remains juicy, not overcooked.

Step 6: Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce.

This step adds moisture to the dish and helps to deglaze the pan, lifting the flavorful bits stuck to the skillet. The broth enhances richness while the Worcestershire sauce adds an integral umami punch.

Step 7: Combine the cooked pasta with steak and veggie mixture.

Mixing the al dente pasta with the skillet mixture ensures that every piece of pasta is coated with the savory sauce. This step is vital for flavor connectivity, making each bite consistent and delicious.

Step 8: Stir in the provolone cheese until melted.

Adding the cheese at the end allows it to melt into the dish, creating a creamy, indulgent texture. This step transforms your pasta into a decadent version of the classic sandwich, delivering the cheesesteak experience.

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

Final seasoning with salt and pepper is essential as it elevates the overall flavor profile. Tasting before serving allows you to make necessary adjustments, ensuring every serving is perfect.

Choosing the Right Pasta Shape

The type of pasta you use can significantly affect the overall texture and taste of the dish. While penne is a traditional choice due to its ability to hold sauces, consider exploring other shapes like fusilli or farfalle. Each will provide a unique experience, enhancing the way the flavorful components cling to the pasta.

Exploring Cheese Options

While provolone is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with other cheeses that melt beautifully, such as mozzarella or cheddar. Each cheese will impart a distinct flavor profile, allowing you to personalize the dish to your liking. Just remember that the melting quality is crucial for that signature cheesesteak effect.

Balancing Flavor Intensity

As with any dish, achieving a perfect balance of flavors is essential. If you find your sauce too rich, consider adding a splash of lemon juice for brightness. Conversely, if it's too mild, an extra dash of Worcestershire sauce can enhance depth, bringing the beloved cheesesteak flavors forward in a captivating way.

FAQs

What can I do if the sauce is too thick?

If your sauce turns out too thick, simply stir in a bit more beef broth or water until you reach your desired consistency. Remember to add it gradually.

How can I scale this recipe for a larger crowd?

To make this recipe for more people, you can easily double the ingredients and cook in larger batches. Just ensure your skillet or pot is large enough to hold everything.

What if my steak becomes overcooked?

Overcooked steak can become tough and chewy. Monitor cooking time closely, and consider using a meat thermometer, aiming for medium-rare for the best texture.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add mushrooms or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrients. Just be sure to adjust cooking time accordingly.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheating in a skillet over medium heat works best, as it helps restore the creamy texture. Add a splash of broth to keep it from drying out.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To add some heat, consider incorporating jalapeños or a dash of red pepper flakes while cooking the veggies, allowing their spiciness to infuse the dish.

Conclusion

Philly Cheesesteak Pasta brings together the mouthwatering flavors of the classic sandwich in a comforting, filling meal. With its balance of textures and tastes, it promises to be a new favorite on your dinner table.

Whether you're feeding a hungry family or entertaining friends, this dish is sure to impress. Dive into this flavorful journey and enjoy the satisfaction of creating a comforting pasta dish that delivers all the beloved elements of the Philly cheesesteak.

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