Philly Cheesesteak Pasta brings together the beloved flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak sandwich with the comforting appeal of a hearty pasta dish. This culinary creation marries tender ground beef, savory onions, and peppers with creamy cheeses and perfectly cooked pasta. In this article, we’ll explore the tantalizing ingredients and simple steps required to whip up this delightful dish in your own kitchen.
Ingredients: Crafting the Perfect Blend of Flavors
Before diving into the preparation process, let’s take a moment to appreciate the carefully selected ingredients that make Philly Cheesesteak Pasta a true culinary delight:
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- ½ yellow or sweet onion, diced Salt and pepper, to taste 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 green bell pepper, stem and seeds removed,
- diced 8 ounces elbow macaroni, uncooked
- 1 cup water 14.5 ounce can of beef broth, or 2 cups beef broth
- ½ cup 2% milk
- 2 ounces cream cheese, cut into small cubes
- ½ cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 6 to 8 ounces provolone cheese, sliced and torn into pieces Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
- Olive oil: Providing a flavorful base for cooking the ground beef and onions.
- Ground beef: The star of the show, offering a rich and meaty flavor that forms the foundation of our dish.
- Yellow or sweet onion: Adding sweetness and depth of flavor to the dish.
- Worcestershire sauce: Infusing the meat with a savory, umami-rich taste.
- Green bell pepper: Providing a fresh and crunchy texture, along with a hint of natural sweetness.
- Elbow macaroni: Serving as the perfect pasta base for our dish, with its classic shape and comforting texture.
- Water and beef broth: Providing the necessary liquid to cook the pasta and create a flavorful broth.
- 2% milk: Adding creaminess and richness to the dish.
- Cream cheese: Contributing a velvety smoothness and tangy flavor to the sauce.
- Mozzarella cheese: Melting into the sauce to create a gooey, cheesy texture.
- Provolone cheese: Offering a sharp and nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the other ingredients.
- Chopped fresh parsley: Adding a touch of brightness and freshness to the finished dish.
Preparation: A Symphony of Flavors
Now that we’ve familiarized ourselves with the ingredients, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of creating Philly Cheesesteak Pasta:
- Cooking the Beef and Onions: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, then brown the ground beef and diced onion until the meat is no longer pink and the onions are soft and translucent. Season with salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce to taste.
- Adding the Peppers and Pasta: Stir in the diced green bell pepper, uncooked elbow macaroni, water, and beef broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the pasta is fully cooked and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Incorporating the Creamy Elements: With the skillet still over low heat, add the milk and cubed cream cheese, stirring until the cream cheese has melted and incorporated into the sauce.
- Cheese Galore: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese into the skillet, stirring to distribute it evenly throughout the dish. Then, top the pasta with half of the torn provolone cheese.
- Melting Magic: Cover the skillet with a lid for a few minutes to allow the remaining provolone cheese to melt and meld with the other ingredients, creating a creamy, cheesy blanket over the pasta.
- Finishing Touches: Garnish the finished dish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
In conclusion, Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is a culinary masterpiece that seamlessly blends the iconic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak sandwich with the comforting appeal of a creamy pasta dish. With its tender ground beef, savory onions and peppers, and gooey melted cheeses, this dish is sure to become a new family favorite. Whether you’re cooking up a quick weeknight meal or entertaining guests for a special occasion, Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is guaranteed to impress. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and get ready to savor the irresistible flavors of this delicious dish!
