Philly Cheesesteak Creamy Pasta
If you’re a fan of the iconic Philly cheesesteak, then get ready to fall in love with a comforting rendition that combines the classic flavors of the sandwich with the rich creaminess of pasta. Philadelphia’s legendary cheesesteak, typically a blend of thinly sliced beef, bell peppers, onions, and gooey provolone cheese, finds a delightful twist in this creamy pasta dish. It’s hearty, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make, perfect for cozy dinners or when you are craving something indulgent yet simple. Let’s dive into the recipe for Philly Cheesesteak Creamy Pasta!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Philly Cheesesteak Creamy Pasta is everything you love about the traditional cheesesteak, wrapped in a comforting pasta dish. The combination of flavors from the sautéed beef, sweet onions, vibrant green bell peppers, and rich cheeses makes for a flavorful experience in every bite. The creamy sauce enhances the dish’s richness, while the elbow macaroni perfectly holds the sauce and pairs well with the other ingredients.
Moreover, this dish is quick to prepare, taking only 30 minutes of cooking time, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. It serves up beautifully, garnished with fresh parsley, making it as visually appealing as it is delicious. Plus, it’s highly customizable—you can adjust the ingredients based on your taste preferences, making it versatile for any palate.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create this scrumptious Philly Cheesesteak Creamy Pasta:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 diced sweet onion
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 diced green bell pepper
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 1 cup water
- 1 can beef broth (14.5 oz)
- 1 cup milk
- 2 oz cream cheese, cubed
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- 6 oz provolone, torn
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions
Step 1: Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the ground beef and diced sweet onion. Use a spatula to break up the beef as it cooks. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook until the beef is well-browned and the onions are translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 2: After the beef and onions are browned, add the Worcestershire sauce and diced green bell pepper into the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 2 minutes. This step helps the peppers to soften slightly, allowing their flavors to meld with the beef.
Step 3: Next, pour in the elbow macaroni, water, and beef broth. Stir well to combine, ensuring that the pasta is submerged. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. This allows the macaroni to cook through and absorb all the flavors from the beef and broth.
Step 4: Once the pasta is tender, stir in the milk and cubed cream cheese. This will make the dish creamy and rich. Continue stirring until the cream cheese is fully melted and incorporated into the pasta.
Step 5: Mix in the shredded mozzarella cheese to the skillet, stirring until the cheese melts and combines beautifully with the pasta. Then, top the mixture with torn provolone cheese, cover the skillet, and let it heat through for a few minutes until the provolone is completely melted.
Step 6: Finally, remove the skillet from heat, and garnish your delicious creamy pasta with fresh parsley before serving. This little touch not only adds color but also enhances the flavor profile of the dish.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni gives the dish a classic feel, you can substitute it with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, rigatoni, or rotini.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make this recipe vegetarian, substitute the ground beef with plant-based meat or sautéed mushrooms and lentils. Adjust the seasoning accordingly to ensure flavorful results.
Can I add more vegetables to this dish?
Of course! Feel free to enhance the dish by adding vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach to boost flavor and nutrition.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the beef and vegetable mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to eat, simply reheat it, add the pasta, broth, and other ingredients as per the instructions.
Conclusion
This Philly Cheesesteak Creamy Pasta brings together all of the classic flavors of the beloved cheesesteak into a one-pot wonder that is creamy, cheesy, and utterly satisfying. Its ease of preparation makes it a perfect choice for any night of the week, ensuring everyone at the table will be thrilled with each bite. With the right balance of ingredients and a simple method, you can enjoy this warm pasta dish that is sure to become a favorite in your household. So grab your ingredients and get cooking—dinner awaits!
