When the iconic philly cheesesteak meets the comforting embrace of pasta, magic happens. Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is a tasty fusion that takes the beloved flavors of thinly sliced steak, melted cheese, and sautéed peppers and onions, and folds them into a hearty, satisfying dish that’s both familiar and excitingly new. This inventive twist on a classic favorite captures the soul of Philadelphia’s signature sandwich while reinventing it for pasta lovers everywhere. Whether you’re craving a rapid weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish to share, Philly Cheesesteak Pasta serves up a savory experience that’s rich in flavor and comfort – a true party of culinary creativity.
Philly Cheesesteak Pasta brings together the indulgent flavors of the iconic sandwich with comforting pasta for an irresistibly savory dinner. Originating from the beloved streets of Philadelphia, this inventive dish takes thinly sliced tender beef, melted provolone, and sautéed peppers and onions, then tosses them with pasta to create a hearty, velvety meal that’s perfect any night of the week. Whether it’s a crowd-pleaser for family or a cozy treat after a long day, this recipe invites you to savor the best of both worlds in every bite.
Prep and Cook Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield
Serves 4 generous portions
difficulty Level
Easy to Medium – Suitable for cooks comfortable with sautéing and sauce readiness
Ingredients
- 12 oz linguine or fettuccine pasta
- 1 lb thinly sliced ribeye or sirloin steak
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 1 medium green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded provolone cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Step by Step Guide to Crafting the Perfect philly Cheesesteak Pasta
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add linguine and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water for later.
- Sear the steak: heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced ribeye steak in a single layer. Season with salt and pepper. Sauté until just browned and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes. Remove steak and set aside.
- Sauté vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil. Toss in the green bell pepper and onion slices. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and caramelized, about 7 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Create the sauce: Pour in beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, scraping the pan to release any browned bits. Allow to simmer for 3 minutes. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Combine cheese and pasta: Gradually add shredded provolone and mozzarella cheese, stirring until completely melted and the sauce is smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until desired consistency is reached.
- bring it all together: Return the cooked steak to the skillet, tossing to coat in the cheesy sauce. Add the drained pasta and gently fold everything together, ensuring every strand is luxuriously coated.
- Final touches: Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving warm.
Tips for Customizing Your Pasta to Suit Every Taste and occasion
- Make it spicy: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a fiery kick.
- Cheese variations: Swap provolone for sharp cheddar or Monterey Jack to subtly shift the flavor profile.
- Vegetarian option: Replace beef with hearty portobello mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
- Make ahead: Prepare the beef and sauce separately and combine with freshly cooked pasta just before serving to maintain texture and flavor.
- Gluten-free: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and confirm Worcestershire sauce ingredients if dietary restrictions apply.
Pairing Suggestions to Elevate Your Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Experience
The bold flavors of this dish pair wonderfully with a crisp, refreshing side that balances richness. Consider a light Caesar salad with crunchy romaine and tangy dressing. For beverages, a chilled pale ale or a dry red wine like Pinot Noir complements the savory steak and creamy cheese without overwhelming the palate. To finish, a simple lemon sorbet or tart apple slices cleanse the palate beautifully.
Chef’s Notes
- For best results, slice the beef as thin as possible-freezing the meat for 30 minutes beforehand helps achieve that perfect thinness.
- If you prefer a creamier sauce, add an extra ¼ cup of heavy cream or swap in cream cheese for richness.
- Use freshly shredded cheese rather than pre-shredded for better melting and texture.
- Reserve pasta water-it’s a secret ingredient that helps loosen your sauce and encourage it to cling beautifully to noodles.
| Nutritional Info (per serving) | Calories | Protein | Carbs | fat |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Philly Cheesesteak Pasta | 620 kcal | 42 g | 55 g | 25 g |
Image: A resplendent serving of Philly cheesesteak Pasta showcasing tender slices of steak folded into cheesy linguine with peppers and onions.
For more inspiration on hearty pasta dishes, explore our Ultimate Beef Pasta Recipes. To learn about the origin and history of the Philly cheesesteak sandwich, visit Philadelphia Magazine.
Q&A
Q&A: Philly Cheesesteak Pasta – A Savory Twist on a Classic Favorite
Q1: What exactly is Philly Cheesesteak Pasta?
A: Philly cheesesteak Pasta is a delicious fusion dish that marries the iconic flavors of the classic Philly cheesesteak sandwich with hearty pasta. Rather of sandwich bread, tender slices of seasoned beef, sautéed peppers and onions, and gooey melted cheese come together atop a bed of pasta-usually penne or rigatoni-for a comforting, savory meal that’s both familiar and excitingly new.
Q2: How did Philly Cheesesteak Pasta come about?
A: This inventive dish emerged from culinary creativity aiming to reimagine beloved comfort foods in novel ways. Chefs and home cooks inspired by the Philly cheesesteak’s unbeatable combination of beef, peppers, onions, and cheese began experimenting by swapping the hoagie roll for pasta, creating a versatile meal that’s easy to make and share, while still honoring the original flavors.
Q3: What ingredients are essential for an authentic Philly Cheesesteak Pasta?
A: The key players include thinly sliced ribeye beef or steak, sautéed green bell peppers and onions, provolone or American cheese (often melted into a creamy sauce), garlic, and a robust pasta like penne. Some recipes add mushrooms for extra umami or incorporate a creamy cheese sauce to bind everything together, making each bite rich and satisfying.
Q4: Can Philly Cheesesteak Pasta be customized to suit different tastes?
A: Absolutely! One of the joys of this dish is its adaptability. Swap out the beef for chicken or even plant-based substitutes for a vegetarian twist. Adjust the heat by adding spicy peppers or hot sauce. Experiment with different cheeses-mozzarella, cheddar, or pepper jack-to change the flavor profile. the pasta shape can be varied too, depending on preference or pantry staples.
Q5: How does Philly Cheesesteak Pasta differ from the traditional sandwich experience?
A: While the sandwich delivers a satisfying handheld experience with a toasty roll, the pasta version offers a warm, hearty, and cozy meal that’s perfect for dinner plates and family-style sharing. The textures evolve-no crusty bread, but tender noodles soaked in savory juices and cheese. It’s less about portability and more about comfort and indulgence.
Q6: What are some tips for making the best Philly Cheesesteak Pasta at home?
A: Start with quality steak-thinly sliced for quick cooking. Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing to get a nice caramelization. Sauté the peppers and onions until they’re soft and sweet. use a good cheese that melts well to create a luscious sauce. Toss the pasta in the sauce while it’s hot for maximum flavor absorption. Lastly, season generously with salt, pepper, and a hint of garlic powder to round out the dish.
Q7: Is Philly Cheesesteak Pasta a good dish for entertaining or weeknight meals?
A: Both! It’s versatile enough to impress guests with its inventive flair while being simple enough for a cozy weeknight dinner. Prep time is moderate, and it all comes together in one pan for easy cleanup. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with a crisp salad or garlic bread to round out a crowd-pleasing meal.
Q8: Where can I find recipes or inspiration for Philly Cheesesteak Pasta?
A: You’ll find plenty of recipes online on food blogs, cooking websites, and social media platforms like Instagram and Pinterest. Many chefs share creative spins, from creamy cheese sauces to spicy versions. Experimenting with these recipes can help you craft your perfect Philly Cheesesteak Pasta experience!
Key Takeaways
Bringing together the hearty comfort of a Philly cheesesteak and the satisfying embrace of pasta, this inventive recipe proves that classics can evolve without losing their soul. Whether you’re craving a nostalgic bite or a fresh culinary adventure, Philly cheesesteak pasta delivers layers of bold flavors and textures that promise to delight your palate. So next time you find yourself torn between a sandwich and a bowl, why not have the best of both worlds? Dive in, savor every cheesy, savory forkful, and celebrate the delicious possibilities that happen when tradition meets creativity.
