Introduction
Imagine the rich, savory flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak, reimagined in a comforting pasta bake that’s perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. This Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Bake takes all the elements you love about the iconic sandwich—tender beef, bell peppers, onions, and melty cheese—and combines them with al dente pasta to create a satisfying and cheesy casserole. If you’re a fan of hearty, cheesy dishes that bring comfort and joy, then this pasta bake will hit all the right notes. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a regular weeknight, this dish is sure to warm hearts and fill bellies.
Ingredients
- 12 oz rigatoni or penne pasta
- 1 lb ground beef (or thinly sliced steak)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (optional)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 cup beef broth
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded provolone cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Preparation
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the rigatoni or penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Beef and Veggies
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef (or steak slices) over medium-high heat until fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the skillet to avoid any greasy residue in the final dish.
Step 3: Add the diced onion, green bell pepper, mushrooms (if using), and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté the vegetables until they become tender, which should take about 5 minutes. The onions should be translucent, and the peppers should be slightly softened.
Step 4: Stir in the Worcestershire sauce and beef broth. Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing all the flavors to combine well. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan, place the softened cream cheese over low heat. Stir occasionally until it begins to melt. Gradually pour in the heavy cream while whisking continuously to create a smooth mixture.
Step 6: Remove the saucepan from heat and add in 1 cup of shredded provolone cheese and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Stir until the cheese has melted completely and is well incorporated into the cream mixture.
Step 7: Assemble the Pasta
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, the beef and veggie mixture, and the cheese sauce. Stir until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the cheesy goodness.
Step 8: Transfer the entire mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Top with the remaining shredded provolone and mozzarella cheese to ensure that every bite is extra cheesy.
Step 9: Bake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese on top is bubbly and has turned a lovely golden brown color. Once baked, remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Step 10: Garnish with chopped parsley before serving, if desired. The parsley adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness that balances out the richness of the dish.
COOKING Note
If you’re looking for an extra twist, consider adding a bit of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the beef and veggie mixture for some heat. You can also switch up the cheese for a sharper taste—try a combination of provolone and sharp cheddar for an extra kick of flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Bake is a complete meal on its own, filled with protein, vegetables, and comforting pasta. For a well-rounded dinner, consider serving it with a light side salad, such as a crisp Caesar or mixed green salad. A side of garlic bread also pairs wonderfully, perfect for soaking up the creamy cheese sauce. To balance the rich flavors, serve with a refreshing glass of iced tea or a light red wine.
Tips
- Pasta Choice: Rigatoni or penne are ideal for this recipe because their tube shapes hold the sauce well. However, feel free to use any similar pasta you have on hand, like ziti or even fusilli.
- Meat Option: While ground beef is convenient, using thinly sliced ribeye steak can make this dish even more authentic to the Philly cheesesteak experience.
- Vegetables: If you’re a veggie lover, feel free to add extra vegetables like red bell peppers or even spinach to boost the nutritional content.
- Cheese: For a gooier, meltier texture, always grate your own cheese rather than using pre-shredded cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the creaminess.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 550 kcal per serving
- Protein: 28g per serving
- Sodium: 670mg per serving
Conclusion
Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Bake brings together the bold flavors of a beloved sandwich and transforms them into a pasta dish that is truly comforting. Creamy, cheesy, and full of tender beef and veggies, this bake is sure to satisfy everyone around the table. Whether you are looking for a family-friendly weeknight meal or something special to bring to a potluck, this pasta bake is guaranteed to impress. Enjoy the rich, nostalgic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak in an entirely new form—pasta!
FAQ
Q: Can I make this pasta bake ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make this pasta bake ahead of time. Simply assemble everything in the baking dish, cover it tightly with foil, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before baking as directed.
Q: Can I freeze Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Bake?
A: Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled (but unbaked) pasta bake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. To bake, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake it at 375°F as instructed.
Q: What can I use instead of cream cheese?
A: If you don’t have cream cheese, you can use mascarpone or even a combination of ricotta cheese and a bit of sour cream. This will provide a similar creamy texture.
Q: How do I reheat leftovers?
A: Reheat leftovers in a preheated 350°F oven, covered with foil, for about 20 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave.
Q: Can I use a different kind of cheese?
A: Of course! While provolone and mozzarella give this bake the classic Philly cheesesteak flavor, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, pepper jack, or even gouda for a different flavor profile.
If you’re eager to explore a wider variety of mouthwatering recipes, you can click here to uncover a collection of dishes that suit every palate. Whether you’re in the mood for quick and easy meals or something more elaborate, you’ll find plenty of inspiration to elevate your cooking experience!