Here’s the full recipe for Philly Cheesesteak Pasta along with answers to popular questions:
Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded provolone cheese
- 1 lb pasta (penne or rigatoni)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Directions:
- Cook the Pasta:
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and bell pepper, cooking until the vegetables are soft, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Cook the Ground Beef:
- Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
- Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Make the Sauce:
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cream cheese until melted and combined.
- Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream, stirring until the mixture is smooth and heated through.
- Add the shredded provolone cheese, stirring until melted and well incorporated.
- Combine Everything:
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the sauce.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Popular Questions and Answers:
- Can I use a different type of pasta?
- Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer. Penne and rigatoni work well for this recipe, but feel free to use spaghetti, fettuccine, or any other type of pasta you like.
- Can I substitute ground beef with another meat?
- Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, ground chicken, or even sliced steak for a more traditional Philly cheesesteak flavor.
- How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
- To make this dish vegetarian, omit the ground beef and use additional vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini. You can also add meat substitutes like plant-based ground “beef.”
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it separately from the pasta. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce and toss it with freshly cooked pasta.
- What can I serve with Philly Cheesesteak Pasta?
- Serve this dish with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- How do I store leftovers?
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
- Can I freeze Philly Cheesesteak Pasta?
- Pasta dishes with creamy sauces like this one do not freeze well due to the texture change upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or stored in the refrigerator for short-term leftovers.
- What can I substitute for provolone cheese?
- If you don’t have provolone cheese, you can use mozzarella, Swiss cheese, or a blend of Italian cheeses for a similar flavor profile.
- Is this dish spicy?
- No, this recipe is not spicy. If you prefer a bit of heat, you can add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce while cooking.
- Can I use light cream or milk instead of heavy cream?
- Using lighter alternatives like half-and-half or whole milk will result in a thinner sauce. Adjust the amount accordingly and expect a lighter consistency.
- How do I prevent the cream cheese from clumping?
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened at room temperature before adding it to the skillet. Whisk or stir continuously over low heat until smooth.
- What can I do if the sauce is too thick?
- If the sauce becomes too thick, gradually add more beef broth or heavy cream until you reach your desired consistency.
- Can I add more vegetables to this dish?
- Yes, you can add more vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Should I cover the skillet while simmering the sauce?
- It’s not necessary to cover the skillet while simmering the sauce. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating and melting of the cheeses.
- Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
- Pre-shredded cheese works fine in this recipe, but freshly grated cheese will melt more smoothly and give a better texture to the sauce.
- Is this recipe gluten-free?
- This recipe is not gluten-free due to the use of pasta and breadcrumbs. To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs.
- How much garlic should I use?
- The recipe calls for 2 cloves of minced garlic. You can adjust this amount based on your preference for garlic flavor.
- Can I add herbs or other seasonings?
- Yes, feel free to add herbs like parsley, basil, or red pepper flakes for added flavor. Adjust the seasoning to suit your taste.
- What type of skillet should I use?
- Use a large skillet with high sides to accommodate all the ingredients comfortably without overcrowding.
- How can I make this dish lighter?
- To lighten this dish, use lean ground beef or turkey, reduce the amount of cheese or use lighter cheese options, and substitute heavy cream with milk or a combination of milk and broth.
Enjoy preparing and savoring your Philly Cheesesteak Pasta!