If you’ve ever found yourself craving the rich, savory flavors of a Philly cheesesteak but are also in the mood for pasta, you’re in for a treat. Philly cheesesteak pasta combines the best of both worlds into one hearty dish that is sure to please any crowd. The savory ground beef, colorful vegetables, and creamy cheese come together in a delightful way, making it a dish that you can’t help but love.
Why We Love This Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Recipe
There are many reasons to love this Philly cheesesteak pasta recipe. First, it captures the essence of a classic cheesesteak, allowing you to enjoy the iconic flavors without the need for a sandwich. Each bite is packed with elements of a traditional cheesesteak, from the savory ground beef to the gooey cheese.
Additionally, this dish is quick and easy to make. It only takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The one-pan preparation also means less cleanup, which is always a plus! Plus, it’s highly customizable. You can adjust the seasonings or swap out vegetables to suit your taste.
Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner, this dish is accessible and fun to make. It’s perfect for feeding the family or impressing guests. Once you try it, it’s likely to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients for Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
To create this delicious Philly cheesesteak pasta, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 pound (90% lean) ground beef
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
- 1/2 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 1 medium red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 medium yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, stemmed and quartered
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic pepper
- 10 ounces dry rotini pasta
- 3 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 1 1/2 cups shredded pepper jack cheese
- 4 ounces provolone cheese
How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
Creating this delightful Philly cheesesteak pasta is straightforward. Here’s how you can make it step-by-step:
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a deep, 12-inch nonstick skillet over medium heat until it shimmers. This initial heat is crucial for achieving perfectly cooked ground beef. Next, add the pound of ground beef along with 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt. Cook this mixture while breaking up the beef until it is crumbled and browned. Be sure to drain any excess grease before transferring the beef to a separate plate.
Return the skillet to the heat, adding the remaining tablespoon of olive oil, sliced onion, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Sauté these ingredients for about five minutes, or until the onions are softened and beginning to brown.
Next, stir in the bell peppers, cremini mushrooms, and minced garlic. Continue cooking this mixture for 3 to 4 minutes until everything is softened. Once the vegetables are cooked, return the cooked ground beef to the skillet. Add the remaining salt, Italian seasoning, and garlic pepper. Allow the mixture to cook for an additional minute or two to blend the flavors.
Now it’s time to incorporate the uncooked rotini pasta into the skillet. Pour in the three cups of beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it cook for around 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure the pasta cooks evenly and doesn’t stick to the bottom of the skillet.
When the pasta is thoroughly cooked and the liquid has reduced, it’s time to stir in the shredded pepper jack cheese. By adding this cheese, you’ll create a rich and creamy sauce that envelops the pasta and other ingredients. To finish, place slices of provolone cheese on top, cover the skillet again, and allow the cheese to melt.
Once melted, serve your Philly cheesesteak pasta hot and enjoy the incredible flavors!
How to Serve Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
Serving Philly cheesesteak pasta can be both simple and stylish. For a casual family dinner, just fill a bowl or plate with a generous portion of the pasta and enjoy. If you’re entertaining guests, consider presenting it in an appealing way.
Garnish your pasta with some chopped fresh parsley or a light sprinkle of more Italian seasoning for a pop of color. A side salad or some crusty bread can accompany the dish perfectly. If you’d like to add a touch of heat, serve it with hot sauce on the side, allowing everyone to adjust the spice level to their liking.
Don’t forget to have some additional cheese on hand for anyone who wants an extra cheesy experience! This dish can be a crowd-pleaser when served just right, making it perfect for any occasion.
Expert Tips for Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
To make your Philly cheesesteak pasta even more delicious, here are a few expert tips:
- Quality Ingredients: Opt for good quality ground beef and fresh vegetables. Fresh ingredients enhance the overall flavor of the dish and can make a notable difference.
- Don’t Skip the Seasoning: Ensure you season your beef generously and taste as you go. This will ensure your dish is flavorful and satisfies your palate.
- Pasta Choice: While rotini works beautifully, feel free to get creative with other pasta shapes, such as penne or rigatoni. Just keep in mind that different shapes may require slight adjustments to cooking times.
- Add More Veggies: Consider adding other vegetables that you enjoy, such as zucchini or spinach. This not only adds flavor but also increases the nutritional value of the dish.
- Cheese Variations: If you want to switch it up, try other cheese varieties or blends. Cheddar or mozzarella can offer different flavor profiles that might appeal to you.
- Make It Ahead: This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated for a fulfilling meal later. Just be cautious when reheating so that the pasta does not become mushy.
How to Store Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
To store any leftovers of your Philly cheesesteak pasta, follow these simple steps:
- Cool Down: Allow the pasta to cool completely before storing it to avoid condensation that can lead to sogginess.
- Airtight Container: Transfer the pasta into an airtight container. Make sure it is properly sealed to maintain freshness.
- Refrigerate: Store the container in the refrigerator where it can typically last for about 3 to 4 days.
- Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheat in the microwave or on the stove over low heat. You may need to add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it up again.
Variation of Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
This recipe is incredibly versatile. Here are a few variations you might want to consider:
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or a mix of your favorite beans. You can also add extra vegetables to create a hearty vegetarian version.
- Spicy Kick: If you enjoy heat, add diced jalapeños or a dash of red pepper flakes while cooking to elevate the spice level.
- Different Cheeses: Experiment with other cheeses, such as an alfredo blend or a spicy cheese blend, for a unique twist.
- Pasta Style: Swap the rotini with a gluten-free pasta or whole wheat version to suit dietary needs while keeping the flavor intact.
- Creamy Version: To enhance the creamy texture, consider adding a splash of cream or cream cheese while mixing in the cheeses.
These variations will keep your meals exciting and fresh, so feel free to get creative!
Frequently Asked Questions about Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
What is Philly Cheesesteak Pasta?
Philly cheesesteak pasta is a delicious dish that combines the flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak with pasta. It features ground beef, bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, and creamy cheese often served atop rotini pasta.
How long does it take to make Philly Cheesesteak Pasta?
This dish can be prepared and cooked in about 30 minutes, making it a quick and easy option for a weeknight meal.
Can I use other types of meat in Philly Cheesesteak Pasta?
Absolutely! While ground beef is traditional, you can substitute it with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based protein to suit your taste preferences.
Is it possible to make Philly Cheesesteak Pasta ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. Allow it to cool, store it in an airtight container, and reheat it when ready to serve.
What should I serve with Philly Cheesesteak Pasta?
This dish pairs well with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 10 ounces dry rotini pasta
- 3 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 1 1/2 cups shredded pepper jack cheese For extra creaminess
- 4 ounces provolone cheese For topping
For the Filling
- 1 pound (90% lean) ground beef
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
- 1/2 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 1 medium red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 medium yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, stemmed and quartered
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic pepper
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a deep, 12-inch nonstick skillet over medium heat until it shimmers.
- Add ground beef and 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt. Cook while breaking up the beef until crumbled and browned. Drain excess grease.
- Return the skillet to heat, add remaining olive oil, sliced onion, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Sauté for about five minutes until softened.
- Stir in bell peppers, mushrooms, and minced garlic. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened.
- Return cooked ground beef to skillet, add remaining salt, Italian seasoning, and garlic pepper. Cook for another minute.
- Incorporate rotini pasta and beef broth. Bring mixture to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and let cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in pepper jack cheese and place provolone cheese on top. Cover to melt the cheese.