Introduction to Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
If you’re a young professional juggling a busy schedule and craving something delicious, look no further than Philly Cheesesteak Pasta. This dish combines the classic flavors of a beloved Philly cheesesteak with the comfort and convenience of pasta for a hearty meal that comes together in under 30 minutes. Who doesn't love a quick yet satisfying dinner after a long day at work?
Why Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is a Game Changer for Young Professionals
Imagine this: you get home late, the last thing you want to do is spend hours cooking. With Philly cheesesteak pasta, you can whip up a gourmet meal without breaking a sweat. The recipe requires just one pan—less mess, more time to unwind!
- Quick and Easy: From boiling the pasta to sautéing the steak and veggies, everything happens in a flash.
- Flavorful: The combination of tender steak, creamy sauce, sautéed peppers, and onions delivers a fulfilling experience that’s sure to impress.
- Customizable: Don’t have pappardelle? Use whatever pasta you have on hand! This dish caters to your pantry.
Moreover, if you’re interested in meal prep, it’s simple to double the recipe for future meals, just don’t freeze it—nothing beats the freshness of this dish. Dive into the rich world of Philly cheesesteak pasta, and transform your weeknight dinners!
Ingredients for Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
Essential Ingredients for a Delicious Meal
Creating a mouthwatering Philly Cheesesteak Pasta dish starts with the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for this comforting meal:
- Dried Pappardelle Pasta: 300 g (10.5 oz) for a robust base—tagliatelle, spaghetti, or fettuccine also work well.
- Neutral Oil: 2 tablespoon (like avocado or rapeseed) to give a nice sear to your steak.
- Steak: 400 g (14 oz) of fillet or ribeye cut into strips for that classic cheesesteak flavor.
- Seasoning: Just ½ teaspoon each of salt and black pepper to enhance the steak's natural goodness.
- Butter: A tablespoon of salted butter adds richness to the dish.
- Vegetables: An onion and a green bell pepper, both thickly sliced, bring in color and flavor.
- Garlic: 2 minced cloves for an aromatic kick.
- Cream: 240 ml (1 cup) of double cream creates a luscious sauce.
- Worcestershire Sauce: 1 tablespoon for that umami punch.
- Mozzarella Cheese: 100 g (1 packed cup) ready-grated to melt perfectly on top.
These ingredients come together to make an indulgent dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings. Ready to stir up some savory goodness? Let’s cook!
Preparing Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
If you're looking for a delicious twist on the classic Philly cheesesteak, this pasta dish will tantalize your taste buds while providing a cozy dinner option. Let’s walk through the steps to create this mouthwatering meal together.
Cook the pasta to perfection
Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add your preferred pasta, like pappardelle or fettuccine, and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 10-12 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally to keep the pasta from sticking. Once cooked, drain the pasta, but don’t forget to reserve about one cup of the cooking water. This starchy water will come in handy later for adjusting the sauce's consistency!
Sear the steak strips
While your pasta is cooking, heat some neutral oil in a large frying pan over high heat. The key here is getting the pan hot enough to create that beautiful sear on the steak strips. Season your sliced steak (ribeye or fillet works best) with salt and black pepper, and add it to the pan. Allow it to brown for about 3-4 minutes—this deep browning brings out the flavor. Once done, transfer the steak to a bowl and let it rest for a moment.
Sauté the vegetables
Next, turn down the heat to medium-high and toss in a tablespoon of salted butter and the sliced onions and green bell peppers. Sauté them for about three minutes until they start to soften and become aromatic. You’ll be building layers of flavor! Add minced garlic to the mix and continue sautéing for another 30 seconds. The smell is incredible, isn’t it?
Create the creamy sauce
Now it’s time to bring everything together. Pour in the double cream and Worcestershire sauce, allowing the mixture to come to a gentle simmer. This creamy combination is what makes your Philly cheesesteak pasta so indulgent. Make sure to scrape up any bits stuck to the bottom of the pan for added flavor. Once the sauce thickens slightly, return the cooked steak and any resting juices back to the pan, mixing everything well.
Combine and melt the cheese
Adding the cooked pasta to the pan is the grand finale! Toss the pasta with the creamy steak mixture, using some reserved pasta water to help loosen the sauce if needed. This step is crucial for ensuring every noodle is coated. Finally, sprinkle the grated mozzarella cheese on top and stir until it melts into that creamy goodness. Give it a taste, adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary, and serve warm, topped with freshly cracked black pepper.
With these straightforward steps, you’ve transformed classic elements into a comforting bowl of Philly cheesesteak pasta. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or impressing friends at a casual gathering. Enjoy!
Variations on Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
Vegetarian Option with Portobello Mushrooms
Craving a meatless twist on your Philly cheesesteak pasta? Swap out the steak for juicy, sliced portobello mushrooms. These flavorful mushrooms mimic the texture of beef while soaking up the delicious sauce. Just follow the original cooking method, frying the mushrooms until tender, and proceed with adding your onions, peppers, and cream. This variation not only satisfies your taste buds but also packs a nutritious punch—perfect for lunch or dinner!
Spicy Kick with Jalapeños
If you're looking to turn up the heat, adding jalapeños to your Philly cheesesteak pasta is a fantastic choice. Simply chop them finely and toss them in with the onions and bell peppers. The spicy kick pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce, enhancing the overall flavor profile. For an extra zesty touch, consider drizzling some hot sauce on top before serving. Your taste buds will thank you for this fiery twist!
Cooking tips and notes for Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
Choosing the best cut of steak
For Philly Cheesesteak Pasta, opt for cuts like ribeye or sirloin. These have great flavor and tender textures, perfect for quick cooking. Since you'll be frying the steak over high heat, you want it to sear nicely without becoming chewy. If possible, slice your steak against the grain for maximum tenderness. For additional insights on selecting steak, check out this beef guide from the USDA.
Importance of heavy cream in the sauce
Using heavy cream in your sauce isn’t just a decadent choice; it’s crucial for achieving that rich, creamy texture. Cream with less than 25% fat can curdle when heated, so stick with heavy or whipping cream for the best results. This indulgent base not only enhances the flavor but thickens the sauce, giving your Philly Cheesesteak Pasta that satisfying, luxurious mouthfeel. Remember, it’s all about enjoying those delightful bites!
Serving suggestions for Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
Plating and garnish ideas
When your Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is ready to serve, a little presentation goes a long way! Consider plate designs that highlight the creamy, cheesy goodness. Use shallow bowls to keep the dish warm and inviting. Garnish with freshly cracked black pepper and finely chopped parsley for a pop of color. If you're feeling adventurous, a sprinkle of smoked paprika can add depth and enhance the flavors.
Pairing with side dishes
To complement your Philly Cheesesteak Pasta, serve it alongside a crisp side salad featuring mixed greens, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette. Garlic bread is also a fantastic addition for that ultimate indulgence. If you’re aiming for a heartier experience, roasted vegetables tossed in olive oil and herbs will effortlessly elevate your meal. Don't hesitate to explore this guide for more delicious side dish ideas!
Time Breakdown for Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
Preparation Time
Get ready for cooking! The preparation time for your Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is about 10 minutes. This includes slicing up your steak, veggies, and gathering all those delicious ingredients.
Cooking Time
Once you're all prepped, the cooking time takes around 20 minutes. This includes boiling the pasta and sautéing the steak and vegetables to perfection.
Total Time
In total, you’re looking at a delightful 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner that impresses! Ready to dive into this scrumptious meal? Don’t forget to check out tips for optimal flavor on the ingredient choices here.
Nutritional facts for Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
When indulging in delicious Philly Cheesesteak Pasta, it’s good to be mindful of the nutritional content. Each serving provides approximately:
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Calories per serving: 802 kcal, making it a hearty meal choice with a satisfying flavor.
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Protein content: With about 40g of protein, this dish is ideal for refueling after a workout or a long day.
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Sodium levels: At roughly 605mg per serving, it’s wise to pair this dish with lower sodium sides or drinks to balance the meal.
Enjoy this creamy pasta dish while keeping these facts in mind! For more tips on cooking with cream, check out resources from the Nutritional Guidelines.
FAQs about Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it's tempting to pre-make Philly Cheesesteak Pasta, I recommend preparing it fresh. The standout juiciness and tenderness of the steak are best enjoyed right after cooking. Reheating can sometimes toughen the meat, which is a major bummer, especially if you've chosen a delicious ribeye. If you’re short on time, consider prepping your ingredients the day before for a quick assembly when you’re ready to eat!
What are the best alternatives for cheese?
If you’re in a pinch for mozzarella, don’t worry! Provolone is the classic choice, but if it's hard to find, you could opt for grated Edam or Gouda. Both have a lovely melt and rich flavor that harmonizes well with the dish. Looking for an even creamier texture? Try mixing in some cream cheese for that extra indulgence.
How can I store leftovers effectively?
For those lucky enough to have leftovers, store your Philly Cheesesteak Pasta in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or cream to bring back some moisture and avoid a dry dish. Now, enjoy your delicious pasta all over again!
Conclusion on Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
In summary, Philly Cheesesteak Pasta brings the beloved flavors of a classic cheesesteak to your table with ease. Rich, creamy, and hearty, it's perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Elevate your dining experience with this flavorful dish that combines comfort food and gourmet flair. Enjoy!
Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
Equipment
- large pan
- frying pan
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 300 g dried pappardelle pasta use tagliatelle/spaghetti/fettuccine if preferred
- 2 tablespoon neutral oil such as avocado or rapeseed
- 400 g fillet or ribeye steak sliced into strips around 1cm thick
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon salted butter
- 1 onion peeled and thickly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper thickly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic peeled and minced
- 240 ml double cream
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce see notes
- 100 g ready-grated mozzarella cheese see notes
To Serve
- black pepper
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
- Cook the pasta in a large pan of salted boiling water, as per the pack instructions (usually about 10-12 minutes), then drain, reserving 1 cup of the pasta cooking water.
- Meanwhile heat the oil in a large frying pan (skillet) over a high heat, until hot.
- Add the steak, salt and pepper and fry for 3-4 minutes, until browned. Remove from the pan and place in a bowl.
- Turn the heat down to medium-high and add the butter to the pan. Once the butter has melted, add the onion and green pepper and cook for 3 minutes, until starting to soften.
- Add the garlic and cook, whilst stirring, for a further 30 seconds, then add in the cream and Worcestershire sauce.
- Allow the sauce to come to a gentle simmer, then add the steak and any resting juices back to the pan. Turn the heat to low.
- By now the pasta should be cooked and drained. Add the pasta to the pan with vegetables, sauce and steak and toss together. Add splashes of the pasta cooking water if you'd like to loosen the sauce. Give it a taste and add in a little more salt and pepper if needed.
- Sprinkle over the cheese and stir together until the cheese has melted, then serve topped with a good grind of black pepper.
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