Name: Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 large yellow onion, halved and sliced 1/2-inch thick; 1 teaspoon kosher salt (divided); 1 medium red bell pepper, halved and sliced 1/2-inch thick; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 pound ground chuck; 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 8 ounces dry rotini pasta; 2 (14.5-ounce) cans low-sodium chicken broth; 1 1/2 cups shredded provolone cheese (divided); 1 1/2 cups shredded pepper jack cheese (divided)

Introduction to Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Skillet

What is Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Skillet?

If you’ve ever found yourself craving the rich, meaty goodness of a Philly cheesesteak but don’t want to settle for a sandwich, then this Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Skillet is your delicious answer! Combining tender pasta, seasoned ground beef, and melty cheese, this dish brings together all the flavors you love from a classic cheesesteak into a quick and enjoyable meal.

Picture this: vibrant bell peppers, aromatic onions, and succulent beef all sizzling together in a pan, enveloped by creamy melted provolone and pepper jack cheese. Not only is it comfort food at its finest, but it’s also a one-pan wonder. That means less time on dishes and more time enjoying your meal.

Perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or even a casual dinner party, this skillet recipe delivers incredible flavors without lengthy prep. Plus, with just a handful of ingredients, it proves that you don’t need a lot of time or effort to whip up something special.

So let’s dive into making this mouthwatering * Philly cheesesteak pasta skillet* that everyone will love! For the full recipe and tips, read on!

Ingredients for Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Skillet

Essential ingredients

Creating a delicious Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Skillet starts with a straightforward lineup of essential ingredients that come together in a symphony of flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon for sautéing.
Yellow Onion: 1 large, sliced for sweetness and depth.
Kosher Salt: 1 teaspoon, to enhance the natural flavors.
Red Bell Pepper: 1 medium, for a pop of color and sweetness.
Garlic: 1 clove, minced to add aromatic richness.
Ground Chuck: 1 pound, for that hearty cheesesteak vibe.
Freshly Ground Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon for a mild kick.
Dry Rotini Pasta: 8 ounces, serving as the perfect pasta base.
Low-Sodium Chicken Broth: 2 cans (14.5 ounces each) for a rich, savory base.
Provolone and Pepper Jack Cheese: 1 ½ cups each, shredded for melty goodness.

Optional ingredients

While these ingredients are key to your skillet's success, some optional ingredients can elevate your dish even more:

Mushrooms: Sautéed, for an earthy flavor that complements the dish.
Hot Sauce: A splash for those who enjoy a little heat.
Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle on top for added richness and flavor.

Adding these optional ingredients can customize your Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Skillet to suit your palate. For more tips on ingredient substitutions, check out this cooking guide for inspiration!

Step-by-step Preparation of Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Skillet

Creating a delicious Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Skillet is not just about throwing ingredients together; it's an art! Follow these detailed steps to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

Sautéing the aromatics

Start by getting your skillet ready. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a 10-inch high-sided skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers — that’s when you know it’s perfect for sautéing. Add in 1 large yellow onion, halved and sliced into ½-inch thick pieces, along with ½ teaspoon of kosher salt. The salt will help draw out the moisture and flavors from the onion. Stir occasionally for about 5 minutes until the onions start to brown and become soft. Then, add 1 medium red bell pepper, sliced, and a clove of minced garlic, cooking for another 2 to 3 minutes. This step is crucial because it builds a flavor base that makes this dish irresistible!

Browning the ground chuck

Next, it’s time for the star of the show: the beef. Add 1 pound of ground chuck to the skillet along with ½ teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. Use a wooden spoon to break up the meat into smaller pieces as it cooks. This should take 5 to 7 minutes until the beef is nicely browned and no pink remains. Making sure your meat is brown is key for enriching the overall flavor of your Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Skillet.

Combining pasta and broth

Now comes the fun part! Stir 8 ounces of dry rotini pasta into the beef and onion mixture, letting the flavors mingle. Next, pour in 2 cans of low-sodium chicken broth. Cover the skillet and bring everything to a boil. After that, uncover and reduce the heat, letting it simmer for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the pasta to be cooked through and most of the liquid absorbed for that perfect creamy texture. If you’re curious about how to achieve the right pasta consistency, check out this expert advice from Serious Eats.

Melting cheese

Once your pasta is cooked, it’s time to make things extra cheesy! Stir in 1 ½ cups of shredded provolone cheese and 1 ½ cups of shredded pepper jack cheese into the skillet. Combine well until the cheese is evenly distributed and melted, making your dish even creamier.

Broiling for that golden finish

For the final touch that takes your Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Skillet to the next level, sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top. Preheat your broiler to high and position a rack in the middle of the oven. Broil your skillet until the cheese is delightfully melted and turns golden-brown, taking just 2 to 3 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you don’t want it to burn!

Enjoy the rich flavors and creamy texture of this Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Skillet, a savory dish that brings comfort to the dinner table!

Variations on Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Skillet

Vegetarian Twist

Looking to lighten up your Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Skillet? Swap the ground chuck for a hearty mix of sautéed mushrooms and zucchini for a delicious vegetarian alternative. Smoked gouda can replace provolone for a unique flavor. Toss in some spinach right at the end for a nutrient boost! It’s a satisfying way to enjoy a classic while sticking to a plant-based diet. For more vegetarian inspiration, check out this guide from the Vegetarian Society.

Spicy Kick

If you love some heat, consider adding jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to your Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Skillet. For an extra layer of flavor, mix in some spicy Italian sausage or turkey bacon. It’s a simple swap that can make your dish sing with zest! Don't forget to top it with a drizzle of sriracha or hot sauce for that fiery finish. For more spicy recipes, visit Chili Pepper Madness!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Skillet

Choosing the right pasta

When it comes to your Philly cheesesteak pasta skillet, the pasta you choose can make a big difference! I recommend using rotini or penne for their ability to hold onto sauces and mix well with all the delicious ingredients. Avoid delicate pastas like angel hair, which may not stand up to the hearty beef and veggies. For a fun twist, you could try whole-grain or gluten-free pasta to fit your dietary needs.

Cheese recommendations

Cheese is the star of this dish, so opt for a blend of provolone and pepper jack for a creamy, slightly spicy kick! Provolone provides that classic cheesesteak flavor, while pepper jack adds a delightful layer of heat. For an extra cheesy experience, consider mixing in some mozzarella or even gouda! Experimenting with different cheese varieties can help you create a Philly cheesesteak pasta skillet that's perfectly tailored to your taste buds.

For more cheese pairing tips, you can check out Cheese.com for inspiration!

Serving Suggestions for Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Skillet

What to Pair with This Skillet Dish

The Philly cheesesteak pasta skillet is incredibly versatile, and you can elevate your meal with a few easy pairings. A light, zesty salad—such as a simple arugula and cherry tomato salad—cuts through the richness of the cheese. For a crunchy companion, serve with garlic bread or classic French baguette slices to soak up the delicious sauce. And if you're in the mood for something a bit different, try pairing with a refreshing lemonade or sparkling water with a slice of lemon for a nice contrast.

Ideal Serving Sizes

Planning for a gathering? This skillet meal comes together quickly, serving about 4 to 6 people. For heartier appetites, consider rounding out the meal with a side dish or two. If you’re serving it as a main at a family dinner, you can count on everyone coming back for seconds! Keep in mind the serving size will vary based on your guests—light eaters may find one serving enough, while those who love a good meal might enjoy a bit more.

For more side ideas, check out The Kitchn for inspiration!

Time Breakdown for Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Skillet

Preparation time

Getting ready for this delicious Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Skillet takes about 10 minutes. Gather your ingredients, chop the veggies, and you'll be set to create this mouthwatering dish in no time!

Cooking time

Once you start cooking, you can expect it to take around 30 minutes. From sautéing the veggies to broiling that cheesy goodness, every minute is worth it for the flavor you’ll enjoy.

Total time

In total, you’ll need approximately 40 minutes to whip up this satisfying skillet meal. It’s perfect for a busy weeknight dinner, providing a hearty and delicious option that everyone will love. Need more tips on meal prep? Check out helpful resources like Food Network for quick cooking ideas!

Nutritional Facts for Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Skillet

When you're craving a hearty dish like Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Skillet, it's essential to understand what you're putting in your body. Let’s break down the nutritional facts to keep your meals balanced and enjoyable!

Calories

This delicious skillet meal serves up approximately 550 calories per serving, making it a filling yet not overly indulgent choice for dinner.

Protein

Packed with flavor and nourishment, each serving boasts around 30 grams of protein, thanks to the ground chuck and cheese. It's a great way to fuel your body after a long day!

Sodium

Keep in mind that the sodium content is around 900 mg per serving. If you're keeping an eye on salt intake, consider using low-sodium broth and cheeses to maintain flavor without compromising your health goals.

For more insights, check out these resources on healthy eating or explore dietary guidelines by the USDA. Enjoy your meal and feel good about what you're eating!

FAQs about Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Skillet

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! If you're looking for a leaner option, ground turkey is a fantastic substitute in this Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Skillet. It cooks similarly and will soak up the flavors of the dish beautifully. Just keep an eye on cooking times, as ground turkey may cook a bit quicker than beef.

How do I store leftovers?

Storing leftovers is super simple! Let your Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Skillet cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Definitely! This dish is great for meal prepping. You can prepare everything up to the point of broiling the cheese, store it in the fridge, and then just pop it into the oven when you're ready to serve. This way, you’ll have a quick and satisfying meal ready to go!

Conclusion on Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Skillet

In just one pan, you’ve created a delicious and hearty Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Skillet that embodies comfort and flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish delivers a crowd-pleasing meal that’s easy to prepare and clean up. Enjoy every cheesy, savory bite! For more delicious recipes, check out The Kitchn.