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## **Ingredients for Philly Cheesesteak Pasta with a Twist**
To make Philly Cheesesteak Pasta with a Twist, you’ll need the following ingredients:
### **For the Pasta:**
– **8 oz (225 g) pasta:** Choose your favorite pasta—penne, rigatoni, or fusilli work well for this dish, as they can hold onto the sauce and meat.
– **Salt:** For seasoning the pasta water.
– **Olive oil or butter:** To sauté the vegetables and beef.
### **For the Philly Cheesesteak Filling:**
– **1 lb (450 g) rib-eye steak:** Thinly sliced against the grain. If you can’t find rib-eye, you can use flank steak or sirloin.
– **1 large onion:** Thinly sliced (yellow onions work well for this dish).
– **1 bell pepper:** Thinly sliced (optional, but adds a wonderful sweetness and crunch).
– **1 cup mushrooms:** Optional, but adds depth to the flavor of the dish.
– **2 cloves garlic:** Minced.
– **1 tablespoon soy sauce:** To enhance the umami flavor.
– **Salt and pepper:** To taste.
### **For the Cheese Sauce:**
– **2 tablespoons butter**
– **2 tablespoons flour:** For thickening the sauce.
– **2 cups whole milk:** Adds creaminess to the sauce.
– **1 cup shredded provolone cheese:** The classic cheese for a Philly cheesesteak, though mozzarella or cheddar can also work.
– **1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese:** For added richness and flavor.
– **Salt and pepper:** To taste.
– **Optional: 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard:** Adds a tangy element that complements the cheese.
### **For Garnishing:**
– **Chopped parsley:** For a fresh touch.
– **Extra shredded cheese:** Optional, for a cheesy topping.
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## **Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Pasta with a Twist**
### **Step 1: Prepare the Pasta**
Start by boiling the pasta. In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add salt. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water for later.
### **Step 2: Cook the Steak and Vegetables**
In a large skillet or pan, heat olive oil or butter over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced rib-eye steak to the pan. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the steak is browned and cooked through. Be sure to break up the steak as it cooks, allowing it to get crispy in places.
Once the steak is cooked, remove it from the pan and set it aside. In the same pan, add the sliced onions, bell pepper, and mushrooms (if using). Sauté the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes, until they are softened and caramelized. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant. Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and soy sauce. Return the steak to the pan and toss everything together. Set aside.
### **Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce**
In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to make a roux. Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Cook the sauce for about 5-7 minutes until it thickens.
Once the sauce has thickened, lower the heat and stir in the shredded provolone and Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese has completely melted into the sauce. Season with salt and pepper, and add Dijon mustard if using.
### **Step 4: Combine the Pasta, Steak, Vegetables, and Cheese Sauce**
In a large bowl or pot, combine the cooked pasta, steak, vegetables, and cheese sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated in the creamy cheese sauce. If the mixture is too thick, add some reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency.
### **Step 5: Serve and Garnish**
Serve the Philly Cheesesteak Pasta with a Twist immediately, garnished with chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of shredded cheese for a cheesy finish. For a final touch, you can even broil the dish in the oven for a few minutes to get a golden, bubbly cheese crust on top.
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## **Tips and Variations for Philly Cheesesteak Pasta with a Twist**
1. **Use Different Cuts of Beef:** While rib-eye is the traditional cut used for Philly cheesesteaks, you can also use flank steak, skirt steak, or sirloin. Just be sure to slice the meat thinly for the best texture.
2. **Add More Vegetables:** Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or tomatoes for added flavor and nutrition.
3. **Cheese Variations:** While provolone is the classic cheese for a Philly cheesesteak, you can switch it up with mozzarella, gouda, or even a spicy cheese like pepper jack for extra flavor.
4. **Make It Spicy:** If you like a bit of heat, add sliced jalapeños to the vegetable mixture or sprinkle red pepper flakes into the sauce.
5. **Make It Lighter:** For a lighter version, use whole wheat pasta or swap out some of the cheese for Greek yogurt or a lighter cheese option like ricotta.
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## **Conclusion**
Philly Cheesesteak Pasta with a Twist is the perfect fusion dish that combines the best of both worlds: the savory, cheesy goodness of a Philly cheesesteak and the comforting, hearty texture of pasta. Whether you’re a fan of Philly cheesesteaks or a pasta enthusiast, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy your cravings. Its versatility allows for endless customization, so you can tweak it to your taste.
By following the simple steps outlined in this guide, you’ll be able to make a dish that is rich, creamy, and full of flavor—a true crowd-pleaser for any occasion. So, get ready to enjoy a deliciously comforting meal that will have everyone asking for seconds!
