Philly Cheesesteak pasta

Indulge in this creamy Philly Cheesesteak pasta, a delightful twist on the classic sandwich. This dish brings together the rich flavors of ground beef, mushrooms, green peppers, and onions, all enveloped in a luscious provolone cheese sauce. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends, this recipe is sure to impress with its savory taste and satisfying texture.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Pasta
• For the Vegetables
• For the Cheese Sauce
• For Garnish
• How to Make Philly Cheesesteak pasta
• Step 1: Cook the Pasta
• Step 2: Cook the Beef
• Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
• Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce
• Step 5: Combine the Ingredients
• Step 6: Assemble and Serve
• How to Serve Philly Cheesesteak pasta
• Family Style
• With Toppings
• Pairing Drinks
• How to Perfect Philly Cheesesteak pasta
• Best Side Dishes for Philly Cheesesteak pasta
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Philly Cheesesteak pasta
• Reheating Philly Cheesesteak pasta
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is Philly Cheesesteak pasta?
• Can I customize my Philly Cheesesteak pasta?
• How do I make my cheese sauce smoother?
• Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up this delicious meal in no time.
• Comforting Flavor: The combination of creamy cheese and hearty beef creates a comforting dish that everyone will love.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or using different types of cheese.
• Crowd-Pleasing: Ideal for family dinners or entertaining guests, it’s a surefire hit at any gathering.
• Leftover Friendly: This Philly Cheesesteak pasta tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather the necessary tools to make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Large skillet
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Colander

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta evenly without overcrowding.
• Large skillet: Perfect for browning the beef and sautéing vegetables, allowing for maximum flavor development.
• Whisk: Helps create a smooth cheese sauce by preventing lumps when mixing the roux with milk.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

• 10 ounces rigatoni pasta
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper

For the Vegetables

• 8 ounces fresh mushrooms, thinly sliced
• 1 large green bell pepper, finely chopped
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Cheese Sauce

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup half-and-half
• 1 cup provolone cheese, diced or shredded

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Philly Cheesesteak pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Beef

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and no pink remains. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the mushrooms, bell pepper, and onion. Cook over medium heat until softened and moisture has evaporated. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a separate skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Sprinkle in flour and whisk continuously for 1 minute to form a smooth roux. Slowly whisk in milk and half-and-half, stirring frequently. Simmer for 4-6 minutes or until thickened.

Step 5: Combine the Ingredients

Remove sauce from heat and stir in provolone cheese until melted and smooth. Add cooked pasta along with half of the beef and vegetable mixture, tossing to coat evenly.

Step 6: Assemble and Serve

Transfer pasta to a serving dish. Top with remaining beef and vegetable mixture. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy!

How to Serve Philly Cheesesteak pasta

Serving Philly Cheesesteak pasta is a delightful experience that allows you to enjoy the flavors of a classic sandwich in a creamy pasta dish. You can easily customize your serving style to suit your dining occasion.

Family Style

• In a Large Bowl: Serve the pasta in a large bowl for family-style dining, allowing everyone to serve themselves.
• Individual Plates: Plate individual servings for a more formal approach, garnishing each with parsley.

With Toppings

• Extra Cheese: Offer additional provolone or other cheese on the side for those who love extra cheesy goodness.
• Hot Sauce: Provide hot sauce for guests who enjoy a spicy kick to their meal.

Pairing Drinks

• Red Wine: A nice red wine complements the rich flavors of the cheesesteak pasta well.
• Craft Beer: Pair with a local craft beer for a casual touch that enhances the meal’s flavors.

How to Perfect Philly Cheesesteak pasta

Perfecting your Philly Cheesesteak pasta involves attention to detail and some cooking tips to elevate the dish. Here are some ways to enhance your culinary creation:

• Bold Seasoning: Use fresh herbs and spices such as oregano or thyme to deepen the flavor profile.
• Quality Ingredients: Choose high-quality provolone cheese for a richer taste that truly stands out.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure your rigatoni is cooked al dente to maintain its texture and prevent it from becoming mushy.
• Sauté Vegetables Well: Make sure to sauté vegetables until they’re well-cooked but still retain some crunch for added texture.
• Adjust Creaminess: Feel free to adjust the amount of milk or half-and-half based on your preference for creaminess.
• Rest Before Serving: Let the dish sit for about 5 minutes after cooking; this helps flavors meld beautifully.

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Best Side Dishes for Philly Cheesesteak pasta

Pairing sides with your Philly Cheesesteak pasta can enhance your meal experience. Consider these great options that complement its rich flavors.

1. Garlic Bread: A classic choice, perfect for soaking up any leftover cheese sauce.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce and tangy dressing provide a refreshing contrast.
3. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrition without overpowering the main dish.
4. Roasted Asparagus: Seasoned asparagus brings an earthy flavor that pairs well with the richness of the pasta.
5. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds texture and balances out the creamy pasta nicely.
6. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges make a hearty side that everyone loves.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Philly Cheesesteak pasta, it’s important to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the flavor and texture of your dish.

• Skipping the salt in the pasta water: Not seasoning your pasta water can lead to bland noodles. Always add salt before boiling for better flavor.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking rigatoni too long can result in mushy noodles. Aim for al dente to maintain a firm texture.
• Not browning the beef properly: Failing to brown the ground beef can leave it tasteless. Make sure to cook until no pink remains and it’s nicely browned.
• Ignoring the moisture from vegetables: Overcrowding the skillet with veggies can trap moisture. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure proper evaporation.
• Rushing the cheese sauce: Cooking the sauce too quickly can cause clumping. Take your time and whisk continuously for a smooth consistency.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Enjoy within 3–4 days for best quality.

Freezing Philly Cheesesteak pasta

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• Can be stored for up to 2–3 months.

Reheating Philly Cheesesteak pasta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of milk or broth. Stir until heated through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Philly Cheesesteak pasta?

Philly Cheesesteak pasta is a creamy dish inspired by the classic sandwich. It combines rigatoni, ground beef, and vegetables in a rich provolone cheese sauce.

Can I customize my Philly Cheesesteak pasta?

Absolutely! You can add different vegetables like spinach or swap out provolone for other cheeses such as mozzarella or cheddar.

How do I make my cheese sauce smoother?

To achieve a smoother sauce, whisk continuously while gradually adding liquids. Avoid high heat to prevent clumping.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This dish stores well in both the refrigerator and freezer, making it perfect for meal prep throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

This Philly Cheesesteak pasta is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite veggies or cheeses. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or when entertaining guests. Give it a try, and enjoy this delightful twist on a classic!

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