Philly Cheesesteak Pasta

Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is a delightful twist on the classic sandwich, combining the rich flavors of Philly cheesesteaks into a comforting pasta dish. This one-pan wonder brings together creamy sauce and tender noodles, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners or gatherings with friends. With its hearty ingredients and quick preparation, you’ll find it to be a crowd-pleaser that satisfies cravings and is easy to whip up any day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe is a one-skillet meal that can be prepared in just 45 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of ground beef, cream cheese, and French onion soup creates a rich and creamy sauce that perfectly complements the pasta.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize this dish by adding your favorite vegetables or using different types of cheese based on what you have on hand.
• Comfort Food at Its Best: The cheesy goodness and savory beef make this dish an ultimate comfort food that everyone will love.
• Great for Leftovers: Enjoy it again the next day! Philly Cheesesteak Pasta reheats well, making it ideal for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, having the right tools on hand is essential. Below are some must-have kitchen gadgets to help you create this delicious Philly Cheesesteak Pasta.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: This allows you to cook all ingredients in one pan, simplifying clean-up.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware while ensuring even mixing of ingredients.
• Knife and cutting board: Essential for efficiently chopping vegetables like onions and peppers.

Ingredients

A hearty one-pan pasta dish combining classic Philly cheesesteak flavors with creamy sauce and tender noodles. Perfect for busy weeknight dinners.

Meat

• 1 lb lean ground beef (90/10)

Pasta

• 16 oz rotini pasta

Soup Base

• 1 can Campbell’s French Onion Soup (10.5 oz)

Cheese

• 3 cups shredded mozzarella
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened

Vegetables

• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 1 medium green pepper, diced
• 2 cups mushrooms, diced (optional)

Seasonings

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 tablespoon onion powder
• 1/2 tablespoon garlic powder
• Black pepper to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon celery salt
• 1 tablespoon dried parsley
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Pasta

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions, green peppers, and optional mushrooms. Sauté until golden brown, about 10-15 minutes.

Step 2: Add Flavorings

Stir in Worcestershire sauce and cook for an additional 3 minutes. Season the mixture with paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, celery salt, and black pepper to taste.

Step 3: Cook the Ground Beef

Add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it into smaller pieces as it cooks until fully browned.

Step 4: Combine Soup

Pour in the Campbell’s French onion soup. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.

Step 5: Melt Cream Cheese

Cut cream cheese into cubes and add them to the skillet. Stir until completely melted and smooth.

Step 6: Mix in Pasta

Add the cooked rotini pasta along with dried parsley. Stir everything together so that pasta is well coated in the sauce.

Step 7: Add Mozzarella

Turn off heat; stir in 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese. Top with the remaining cheese.

Step 8: Let Rest Before Serving

Allow your Philly Cheesesteak Pasta to rest for about 10 minutes before serving for optimal flavor melding!

Enjoy your delicious creation!

How to Serve Philly Cheesesteak Pasta

Serving Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is simple and enjoyable. This hearty dish can be enhanced with various sides and garnishes to create a delightful meal experience.

Add Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and added flavor.
• Basil or Oregano: Fresh basil or oregano can elevate the taste profile with their aromatic notes.

Pair with Garlic Bread

• Toasted Garlic Bread: Serve warm, crunchy garlic bread on the side for a perfect dipping companion.
• Cheesy Breadsticks: These add a fun twist and complement the cheesy pasta beautifully.

Include a Side Salad

• Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad adds crunch and freshness, balancing the richness of the pasta.
• Garden Salad: A simple garden salad with seasonal veggies provides a refreshing contrast.

Serve with Hot Sauce

• Spicy Hot Sauce: For those who enjoy heat, a few drops of hot sauce can enhance the dish’s flavor.
• Sriracha or BBQ Sauce: These sauces offer unique flavors that pair well with cheesesteak-inspired dishes.

Enjoy with Wine

• Red Wine: A glass of red wine pairs beautifully, enhancing the flavors of this creamy pasta dish.
• Sparkling Water: For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water adds a refreshing touch.

How to Perfect Philly Cheesesteak Pasta

Perfecting your Philly Cheesesteak Pasta ensures every bite is delicious. Here are some tips to enhance your cooking experience.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh vegetables and high-quality beef for the best flavor.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure your rotini is cooked al dente to maintain its texture when mixed with the sauce.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go; feel free to adjust spices based on your preference for extra kick or mildness.
• Let it Rest: Allowing the dish to rest before serving helps meld flavors together and improve texture.
• Experiment with Cheese: Mixing different cheeses like provolone or cheddar can add unique tastes and creaminess.

Best Side Dishes for Philly Cheesesteak Pasta

Pairing side dishes with your Philly Cheesesteak Pasta can enhance your meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes flavored with garlic make for a comforting side.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrients to your plate while complementing the pasta.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and balances the richness of the main dish perfectly.
4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob brings a delightful sweetness that pairs wonderfully with savory flavors.
5. Stuffed Mushrooms: These bite-sized delights filled with cheese and herbs are perfect appetizers or sides alongside pasta.
6. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned simply make for an easy-to-make side that everyone loves.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can help you create the perfect Philly Cheesesteak Pasta. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using cold cream cheese: Ensure your cream cheese is softened to blend smoothly into the dish. Cold cream cheese can clump and not melt properly.

• Overcooking the pasta: Cook the rotini until al dente. Overcooking can lead to mushy pasta that doesn’t hold up well in the dish.

• Skipping seasoning: Don’t forget to season your ground beef and veggies adequately. A lack of seasoning can result in bland flavors in your pasta.

• Neglecting to stir: Stirring ingredients thoroughly is key. This ensures that all flavors mix well and prevents sticking on the bottom of the skillet.

• Not letting it rest: Allowing the pasta to rest before serving helps meld all the flavors together. Skipping this step can make it taste less cohesive.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate within two hours of cooking.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Philly Cheesesteak Pasta

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Label with date for easy tracking.

Reheating Philly Cheesesteak Pasta

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warm throughout.

• Microwave: Place portions in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes at a time until hot, stirring in between.

• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking and stir frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Philly Cheesesteak Pasta:

What is Philly Cheesesteak Pasta?

Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is a one-pan meal that combines traditional Philly cheesesteak flavors with pasta, creating a hearty and creamy dish ideal for weeknight dinners.

Can I use different types of meat?

Yes! You can substitute ground beef with chicken, turkey, or even plant-based alternatives for a lighter or vegetarian option while still enjoying great flavor.

How spicy is Philly Cheesesteak Pasta?

This recipe is not spicy unless you choose to add hot sauce or spicy peppers. The seasonings provide a savory flavor without heat, making it suitable for all palates.

What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to customize your veggies! Broccoli, spinach, or zucchini can be great additions that enhance both flavor and nutrition without overpowering the dish.

Can I make Philly Cheesesteak Pasta ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it ahead of time, store it in the fridge, and reheat when ready to serve. Just remember that fresh ingredients may have better texture when cooked just before eating.

Final Thoughts

Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing you to customize it according to your preferences. This comforting dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you desire something hearty yet simple. Give it a try and enjoy experimenting with different ingredients!