Philly Cheesesteak Pasta

If you’re looking for a delicious and comforting dinner idea, this Philly Cheesesteak Pasta will quickly become a family favorite! It brings the classic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak right to your dinner table in a fun and easy pasta dish. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. The combination of savory ground beef, colorful veggies, and creamy cheese makes it irresistible!

What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is. Whether you’re hosting a casual family gathering or just need a quick meal prep solution, Philly Cheesesteak Pasta fits the bill perfectly.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: This meal comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the savory flavors and creamy texture.
• Comfort food at its best: With cheesy goodness and hearty ingredients, it’s sure to satisfy those comfort food cravings.
• Make-ahead friendly: You can easily prepare this dish ahead of time for an even quicker dinner option later in the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Let’s gather everything we need to make this Philly Cheesesteak Pasta!

For the Pasta

• Penne pasta – 12 ounces

For the Filling

• Ground beef – 1 pound
• Green bell pepper – 1 medium, diced
• Mushrooms – 1 cup, sliced
• Onion – 1 medium, diced

For the Sauce

• Cream cheese – 8 ounces, softened
• Provolone cheese – 1 cup, shredded
• Garlic powder – 1 teaspoon
• Salt and pepper – to taste

Variations

The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility! Feel free to adapt it according to your taste preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Change up the cheese: If provolone isn’t your favorite, mozzarella or cheddar works beautifully too!
• Make it spicy: Add sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling water in a large pot. Add a pinch of salt and then toss in your penne pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. This step is important because perfectly cooked pasta will hold onto the sauce better!

Step 2: Brown the Meat

While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add your ground beef and cook until browned. Breaking it up as it cooks helps ensure even browning and enhances flavor.

Step 3: Sauté the Veggies

Once your meat is browned, add diced onion, green peppers, and mushrooms to the skillet. Sauté them until they are tender—about five minutes. This step adds so much flavor! The veggies will soak up all that deliciousness from the meat.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

Lower the heat and stir in cream cheese until it’s melted and combined with the meat mixture. Then sprinkle in garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Finally, fold in shredded provolone cheese until it’s gooey and wonderful.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Drain your cooked penne pasta and add it straight into the skillet with all that cheesy goodness. Toss everything together until well mixed. This ensures every noodle gets coated with that rich sauce!

Step 6: Serve It Up

Your Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is ready! Serve hot with an extra sprinkle of cheese on top if desired. Enjoy this hearty dish with your loved ones; you’ll be making memories with every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Philly Cheesesteak Pasta

Creating the perfect Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is a delightful experience, and with a few pro tips, you’ll be able to elevate your dish even further!

• Use high-quality ingredients: Choosing fresh vegetables and high-quality ground beef can significantly enhance the flavors of your dish, making it more enjoyable for everyone at the table.
• Don’t overcook the pasta: For the best texture, cook your penne pasta al dente. This way, it will hold up well when mixed with the other hearty ingredients and prevent it from becoming mushy.
• Layer your flavors: Sautéing the vegetables before adding them to the pasta allows their natural sweetness to develop, adding depth to your dish. Plus, it makes your kitchen smell amazing!
• Experiment with cheese: While provolone is traditional, feel free to mix in other cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for a twist. Each cheese brings its own unique flavor profile that can enhance the dish.
• Adjust seasoning to taste: Don’t hesitate to taste and adjust the seasonings as you go. Adding a pinch of salt or a sprinkle of black pepper can make all the difference in achieving that perfect balance of flavors.

How to Serve Philly Cheesesteak Pasta

Serving Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is an opportunity to impress your family or guests! The creamy, cheesy goodness paired with colorful veggies makes for an appealing presentation that’s sure to delight.

Garnishes

• Chopped parsley: A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a dash of crushed red pepper flakes can add a spicy kick that complements the savory flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: A classic pairing! The crunchy, buttery garlic bread is perfect for scooping up any extra sauce left on your plate.
• Mixed green salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes tossed in a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta.
• Steamed broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli not only adds vibrant color but also offers a nutritious balance against the creamy pasta.
• Roasted sweet potatoes: These sweet bites bring natural sweetness and are an excellent way to round out your meal with some added nutrition.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Philly Cheesesteak Pasta will be a hit at any dinner table! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is not just a delicious meal; it’s also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch ahead of time and store it for busy weeknights or lunches. Here’s how you can keep your leftovers fresh and tasty:

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
• If possible, keep the sauce separate from the pasta to maintain optimal texture.

Freezing

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
• Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some answers to your frequently asked questions about Philly Cheesesteak Pasta!

Can I use other types of cheese in Philly Cheesesteak Pasta?

Absolutely! While provolone is traditional, feel free to experiment with mozzarella, cheddar, or even a blend of cheeses for a unique twist.

How can I make Philly Cheesesteak Pasta healthier?

You can make this dish healthier by using whole wheat penne pasta and incorporating more vegetables like spinach or zucchini into the recipe.

What makes Philly Cheesesteak Pasta a good meal prep option?

Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is great for meal prep because it stores well and reheats easily without losing flavor or texture. Perfect for quick dinners!

Can I add other vegetables to my Philly Cheesesteak Pasta?

Definitely! Bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms work beautifully together; you can also try adding broccoli or spinach for extra nutrients.

How do I spice up my Philly Cheesesteak Pasta?

If you’re looking to add some kick, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce during cooking. It will elevate the flavor profile significantly!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited about making this Philly Cheesesteak Pasta as I am! This dish is not only comforting but also versatile enough to cater to various tastes. Whether you’re enjoying it fresh out of the pot or savoring it later as leftovers, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your experience with me—I’d love to hear how it turns out!