A Creamy, Cheesy Twist on a Classic Favorite!
If you love the savory, bold flavors of a Philly cheesesteak, this One-Pot Philly Cheesesteak Pasta will quickly become your new favorite recipe. Combining tender steak, cheesy goodness, and hearty pasta, it’s the ultimate comfort food—all made in one pot for easy cleanup!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Convenient: Everything cooks in one pot, making cleanup a breeze.
- Flavorful: Packed with juicy steak, savory Worcestershire sauce, and gooey provolone cheese.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend treat, this dish fits any mood.
- Customizable: Add your favorite veggies, adjust the spice level, or swap out ingredients to suit your taste.
Preparation Phase
Essential Tools and Equipment
To make this dish seamlessly, gather these tools:
- A large pot or deep skillet with a lid (ideal for one-pot cooking)
- A sharp knife for slicing steak, onions, and bell peppers
- Cutting board
- Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
- Measuring cups and spoons
Why These Tools Matter:
- A large pot ensures even cooking and prevents spillage.
- A sharp knife ensures thin, even slices of the steak and vegetables, which cook faster and evenly.
Preparation Tips
- Choose the Right Steak: Flank steak works well due to its tenderness and quick cooking time. Slice it thinly against the grain to maximize tenderness.
- Prep Ingredients in Advance: Have all vegetables sliced and the garlic minced before starting to cook. This makes the cooking process smooth and stress-free.
- Shred Provolone Cheese Fresh: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect melting.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz pasta (penne or rigatoni)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups provolone cheese, shredded
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Directions
- Cook the Steak
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
- Add the thinly sliced flank steak and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove the steak from the pot and set it aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same pot, add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic.
- Cook over medium heat until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Add Pasta and Liquids
- Stir in 8 oz pasta, 2 cups beef broth, 1 cup heavy cream, and 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce.
- Season with salt and pepper, adjusting to taste.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer, stirring occasionally, for 10-12 minutes or until the pasta is tender and the sauce thickens.
- Combine and Melt the Cheese
- Add the cooked steak back to the pot and stir to combine.
- Sprinkle in 1 1/2 cups shredded provolone cheese and stir until the cheese is fully melted and creamy.
- Serve and Enjoy!
- Spoon the pasta into bowls and serve hot. Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an extra touch.
Pro Tips for Variations
- Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a kick.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap steak for mushrooms and use vegetable broth.
- Cheese Substitutions: Try mozzarella or white cheddar if you don’t have provolone.
Serving Suggestions
This One-Pot Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is a complete meal, but there are plenty of ways to elevate your dining experience:
- Top It Off: Sprinkle fresh parsley, grated Parmesan, or a drizzle of olive oil for added flavor.
- Serve with Bread: Pair with warm garlic bread or a crusty baguette to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Add a Fresh Salad: A light, crisp side salad balances the richness of the pasta.
Serve directly from the pot for a cozy, family-style dinner or plate individually for a more elegant presentation.
Common Mistakes to Avoid & How to Perfect the Recipe
- Overcooking the Steak:
- Avoid overcooking the steak during the initial browning phase. Thin slices cook quickly, so remove them as soon as they’re browned to prevent toughness.
- Undercooking the Pasta:
- Stir occasionally while simmering to ensure the pasta cooks evenly and absorbs the sauce properly.
- Skipping Fresh Cheese:
- Pre-shredded cheese contains additives that can affect its ability to melt smoothly. Always shred provolone fresh for the best results.
- Burning the Garlic:
- Garlic cooks quickly and can burn if left unattended. Stir frequently when sautéing with the onions and peppers.
- Sauce Too Thick or Thin:
- If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of beef broth or heavy cream to loosen it. If it’s too thin, simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce.
Side Dish Recommendations
These eight side dishes pair beautifully with this hearty dish, adding variety and complementary flavors:
- Garlic Breadsticks: The perfect vessel to mop up every last drop of the creamy sauce.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, Parmesan, and a tangy dressing cut through the richness of the pasta.
- Roasted Vegetables: Try roasted asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts for a healthy balance.
- Caprese Salad: Tomato, fresh mozzarella, and basil add a light, refreshing element.
- Sweet Potato Fries: A slightly sweet and crispy side that pairs well with the savory flavors.
- Sautéed Mushrooms: Earthy and buttery, mushrooms make a great side or topping for the pasta.
- Cucumber and Dill Salad: A cooling, tangy salad that contrasts the richness of the cheese and cream.
- Cornbread Muffins: Slightly sweet and crumbly, these are a fun and satisfying addition.
Recipe Tips
- Adjust the Sauce Consistency:
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer the pasta uncovered during the final few minutes.
- For a thinner consistency, add an extra splash of beef broth or cream.
- Make It Ahead of Time:
- Prep your steak and chop the vegetables ahead of time to save effort during busy evenings.
- Customizable Add-Ins:
- Add sautéed mushrooms, baby spinach, or even jalapeños for extra flavor.
- Boost the Seasoning:
- A dash of smoked paprika or a teaspoon of Dijon mustard can elevate the sauce with more depth.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
- Storage:
- Allow the pasta to cool completely before storing.
- Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Freezing:
- For longer storage, place cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheating:
- Stovetop: Place the pasta in a pan with a splash of beef broth or cream to prevent drying out. Heat on low, stirring occasionally.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals (30-45 seconds), stirring in between, to ensure even warming.
- Oven: Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 10-15 minutes.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different cut of steak?
Yes! While flank steak is ideal for its tenderness, sirloin or ribeye are great substitutes. Just ensure you slice the meat thinly against the grain.
2. What if I don’t have provolone cheese?
You can substitute provolone with mozzarella, white cheddar, or Monterey Jack for a slightly different flavor.
3. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free pasta and check that your beef broth and Worcestershire sauce are certified gluten-free.
4. Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
While heavy cream adds richness, you can substitute it with whole milk or half-and-half. Add 1 teaspoon of cornstarch to help thicken the sauce.
5. What other pasta shapes work best?
Short, sturdy pasta shapes like rotini, ziti, or cavatappi hold up well in this dish and catch the sauce beautifully.
Conclusion
One-Pot Philly Cheesesteak Pasta combines the iconic flavors of the classic Philly cheesesteak with the creamy comfort of pasta—all in a single pot! This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a hearty, satisfying meal with minimal cleanup. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or hosting a casual dinner, this dish is guaranteed to impress.
Try this recipe tonight and experience the magic of cheesy, meaty, pasta goodness! Don’t forget to customize it with your favorite add-ins and share your creations with friends and family.
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