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Budget-Friendly Philly Cheesesteak Pasta

A delightful twist on a Philadelphia staple, combining pasta, beef, and vegetables in a creamy cheese sauce for a budget-friendly meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta
  • 12 ounces penne or rotini pasta These pasta shapes are perfect for holding onto the creamy sauce and ingredients.
Meat
  • 1 pound ground beef or thinly sliced beef steak Choose your preference; both options provide rich flavor and protein.
Vegetables
  • 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced Adds sweetness and depth to the dish.
  • 1 large green bell pepper, thinly sliced Contributes vibrant color and crunch.
  • 1 large red bell pepper, thinly sliced Adds sweetness, balancing the flavors.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Enhances the savory profile of the dish.
Cheese and Cream
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded provolone cheese Creamy and perfect for that classic cheesesteak flavor.
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese Offers melty goodness that perfectly complements the provolone.
  • 1/2 cup milk Provides a smooth texture to your sauce.
  • 2 tablespoons cream cheese Adds extra creaminess and richness.
Other Ingredients
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil Used for sautéing vegetables, providing a hint of healthy fats.
  • 1 teaspoon salt Brings out all the flavors in your dish.
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper Adds a subtle warmth.
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano Offers an earthy note to the combined flavors.
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes A slight kick for those who like a little heat!

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  2. Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente; drain well and set aside.
Cooking
  1. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onions and bell peppers for 6-8 minutes or until they start to soften. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
  2. Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula. Season with salt, black pepper, oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes.
  3. Stir in the cream cheese until melted. Add the milk, along with half of the provolone and mozzarella, mixing until smooth and creamy.
Assembly and Baking
  1. Combine the cooked pasta with the beef and cheese sauce. Mix until all the pasta is covered in the delicious cheese blend.
  2. Transfer the mixture to the greased baking dish. Top with the remaining cheese.
  3. Bake for 18-22 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Broil for an extra 1-2 minutes for a crispy top.
Finishing Touch
  1. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Notes

Consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce for extra flavor. Mix in sautéed mushrooms or spinach for more veggies. Use whole-grain pasta or ground turkey for a healthier option. Adjust cooking time for different types of pasta or meat.