Philly Cheesesteak Pasta

Introduction:

Experience the irresistible fusion of two iconic dishes – Philly cheesesteak and pasta – in one delectable creation: Philly Cheesesteak Pasta. This mouthwatering dish combines the savory flavors of thinly sliced steak, caramelized onions, bell peppers, and gooey melted cheese, all tossed with tender pasta for a satisfying meal that’s sure to become a new family favorite. In this article, we’ll uncover the secrets to crafting the perfect Philly Cheesesteak Pasta, explore its mouthwatering appeal, and share tips for making it a standout dish on any dining table.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound ground beef
• ½ yellow or sweet onion, diced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 green bell pepper, stem and seeds removed, diced
• 8 ounces elbow macaroni, uncooked
• 1 cup water
• 14.5 ounce can of beef broth, or 2 cups beef broth
• ½ cup 2% milk
• 2 ounces cream cheese, cut into small cubes
• ½ cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 6 to 8 ounces provolone cheese, sliced and torn into pieces
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Directions:

1. Heat olive oil in a 12-inch skillet over medium heat. Brown ground beef and onion in skillet until meat is no longer pink and onions are soft and translucent. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Add Worcestershire, green bell pepper, macaroni noodles, water, and beef broth. Bring to a boil over high heat. Once water comes to a boil reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. Check to ensure the pasta has fully cooked and most of the liquid has been absorbed/evaporated.
3. Keeping the skillet over low heat add the ½ cup of milk and cubed cream cheese. Stir until the cream cheese has been incorporated.
4. Remove from heat. Sprinkle the mozzarella and half of the provolone cheese into the pan and stir to distribute.
5. Top with the remaining provolone cheese. Put the lid back on the skillet for a couple of minutes to melt the cheese.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley.

Tips:

1. For an even quicker cooking time, ground beef can be cooked ahead of time. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to a month.
2. Wait to add the peppers until the next step rather than trying to rush cooking by sautéing them together. The onions need longer to cook and you want the peppers to be slightly crisp at the end.
3. Worcestershire sauce gives this recipe a little zip and the classic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak. But if your kids are picky about bold flavors, you can omit them.

Serving Tips:

1. Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Before serving your Philly Cheesesteak Pasta, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or cilantro on top for a pop of color and freshness. This adds a vibrant touch to the dish and enhances its presentation.
2. Serve with Garlic Bread: Accompany your Philly Cheesesteak Pasta with slices of warm garlic bread or breadsticks for a complete and satisfying meal. The garlic-infused bread pairs perfectly with the savory flavors of the pasta dish.
3. Individual Servings: For a more elegant presentation, consider serving the Philly Cheesesteak Pasta in individual bowls or plates. This allows guests to enjoy their own portion without the need for additional serving utensils.
4. Pair with a Side Salad: Balance out the richness of the pasta dish by serving it alongside a crisp green salad dressed with vinaigrette. The refreshing salad provides a contrast in textures and flavors, making it a delightful accompaniment.

Storage Tips:

1. Refrigeration: If you have leftovers, store the Philly Cheesesteak Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to the container to prevent condensation and maintain its texture. It can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days.
2. Reheating: To reheat the pasta, transfer it to a microwave-safe dish and heat it in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed to your liking.
3. Avoid Freezing: While you can technically freeze Philly Cheesesteak Pasta, the texture of the pasta and vegetables may change upon thawing, becoming mushy and less appetizing. It’s best to consume the leftovers within a few days to ensure optimal taste and texture.
4. Portion Control: If you plan to freeze the leftovers, consider dividing the pasta into individual portions before storing them in airtight containers. This makes it easier to thaw and reheat only the amount you need without having to defrost the entire batch.

FAQs:

1. Can I use a different type of pasta for Philly Cheesesteak Pasta?

Absolutely! While fettuccine is commonly used in this recipe, you can experiment with various pasta shapes to suit your preference. Penne, spaghetti, or rotini are all great options that can hold up well with the hearty steak and vegetable mixture.

2. Can I make Philly Cheesesteak Pasta vegetarian or vegan?

Yes, you can adapt the recipe to suit vegetarian or vegan diets by substituting the steak with meat alternatives such as sliced mushrooms, tofu, or seitan. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth and opt for vegan cheese to replace the provolone or mozzarella.

3. How do I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy when reheating leftovers?

To prevent the pasta from becoming mushy when reheating leftovers, slightly undercook the pasta during the initial cooking process. Additionally, when reheating, avoid overcooking the pasta by heating it in shorter intervals and stirring frequently until heated through.

4. Can I add additional vegetables to the Philly Cheesesteak Pasta?

Certainly! Feel free to customize the dish by adding extra vegetables such as mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or spinach. Simply sauté the additional vegetables along with the onions and bell peppers until they are tender and add them to the pasta mixture.

5. Can I prepare Philly Cheesesteak Pasta in advance for a party or gathering?

Yes, Philly Cheesesteak Pasta can be prepared in advance for parties or gatherings. Simply follow the recipe up to the point of adding the cheese and then refrigerate the pasta mixture in an airtight container. When ready to serve, reheat the pasta on the stovetop or in the microwave, sprinkle with cheese, and heat until melted and bubbly.