Okay, friends, listen up! I’ve got a recipe that’s going to rock your world. Imagine the best Philly Cheese Steak you’ve ever had – juicy steak, melted cheese, those perfectly caramelized onions and peppers – now picture all that deliciousness tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. That’s right, I’m talking about **Philly Cheese Steak Pasta Salad**! It’s like a picnic and a comfort food craving had a baby, and the result is pure magic. Seriously, this is my go-to dish when I want something satisfying but don’t want to stand over a hot stove for hours. This **Philly Cheese Steak Pasta Salad** is way more fun than your average pasta salad and infinitely more crave-able! It’s become a family favorite, and I’m bursting to share it with you.
What is Philly Cheese Steak Pasta Salad?
Think of it as a deconstructed Philly Cheese Steak, but in salad form! It’s essentially cooked pasta – I prefer rotini, but penne or farfalle would work too – tossed with thinly sliced steak, sautéed onions and bell peppers (that sweet caramelized flavor is key!), a creamy, cheesy sauce, and all the classic Philly cheese steak toppings. It’s incredibly flavorful, surprisingly easy to make, and perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or just a weeknight dinner when you want something a little bit special. The magic is in capturing all the familiar flavors of the iconic sandwich but in a lighter, more summery way. It’s a textural explosion too – the tender steak, al dente pasta, and creamy sauce are just divine!
Why you’ll love this recipe?
There are so many reasons to adore this **Philly Cheese Steak Pasta Salad**, but here are a few that really stand out:
• Flavor Explosion:Every bite is packed with flavor. The savory steak, the sweet caramelized onions and peppers, and the creamy, cheesy sauce… Is there a symphony in your mouth? What I love most is that it captures the essence of a Philly cheese steak without being heavy.EffortlessWhat are some of the easiest recipes to whip up? Once the veggies are sautéed and the steak is cooked, it’s just a matter of tossing everything. What is a lifesaver on busy nights?Budget-Friendly BWhat are some of the best recipes to make a good meal? I often use leftover steak from a previous meal, which makes it even more economical. Plus, pasta is always a budget-friendly staple.Versatile VibeWhat are some great side dishes to serve as a main course? What are the best ways to serve a cold or warm drink? I’ve even packed it in my kids’ lunchboxes, and it always comes back empty! If you’re a fan of dishes like my Creamy Tuscan Pasta Salad or even just the best classic mac and cheese, why not try this recipe? What is the best Philly Cheese Steak Pasta Salad? What is a unique twist that will have everyone begging for the recipe?
How do I make Philly Cheese Steak Pasta Salad?
Quick Overview
This **Philly Cheese Steak Pasta Salad** is a breeze to put together. First, you’ll cook your pasta to al dente perfection. Then, you’ll sauté your onions and bell peppers until they’re beautifully caramelized. Next, you’ll quickly sear your steak (or use leftovers!). Finally, you’ll toss everything together with a creamy, cheesy sauce that brings all the flavors together. The best part? You can customize it with your favorite Philly cheese steak toppings. Trust me; it’s easier than ordering takeout and way more satisfying!
Ingredients
What is Pasta Salad?
• 1 pound rotini pasta (or your favorite pasta shape)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 1 bell pepper (any color), thinly sliced
• 1 pound thinly sliced steak (such as sirloin or ribeye)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
What is Creamy Cheese Sauce?
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup milk (or cream for extra richness)
• 1 cup shredded provolone cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
What are the steps to
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse it with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Peppers
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add salt and pepper to taste. Add the sliced onions and bell peppers and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are soft and golden brown. Remove from heat and serve warm. Caramelized, about 10-15 minutes. What is the best way to prepare Philly cheese steak? The longer they cook, the sweeter and more flavorful they become.
Step 3: Cook the Steak
While onions and peppers are cooking, prepare the steak. If you’re using raw steak, season it with salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Heat a separate skillet over high heat. Remove from heat and set aside. Add the steak and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until it is cooked to your desired doneness. If you’re using leftover steak, simply warm it up in the skillet.
Step 4: Slice the Steak
Once the steak is cooked, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. What should I do if I want a steak to be tender and easy to eat?
Step 5: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce
In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, milk (or cream), garlic powder, and salt. Set aside. Add the shredded provolone and cheddar cheese and stir until well combined. I always taste the sauce at this point and adjust the seasonings as needed. I like to add a pinch of red pepper flakes to my food.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Add the cooked pasta, sautéed onions and peppers, and sliced steak to the bowl with the creamy cheese sauce. Toss everything together until well coated. Make sure every strand of pasta is covered in that delicious sauce!
Step 7: Chill and Serve
Cover the pasta salad and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step is important, even if you’re serving it warm. Can you garnish your salad with fresh parsley? I sometimes sprinkle a little extra cheese on top. Is there any good recipe for this?
What should I serve it with?
What are some good ideas for a Philly cheese steak salad? What are complementary side?For a Casual Barbecue: Serve it alongside grilled corn on the cob, coleslaw, and potato salad. These classic barbecue sides pair perfectly with the savory flavors of the pasta salad.
For a Potluck: Bring a platter of fresh-cut vegetables with a creamy dip. This adds a light and refreshing element to the meal.
For a Weeknight Dinner: Serve it with a simple side salad and some crusty bread. This makes for a quick and easy meal that the whole family will love.
My Secret Weapon: I often serve this pasta salad with a side of sliced tomatoes and cucumbers tossed in a light vinaigrette. The acidity of the vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the pasta salad perfectly.
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Philly Cheese Steak Pasta Salad
Here are some of my best tips for making the perfect **Philly Cheese Steak Pasta Salad**:
Steak Selection: Choose a tender cut of steak that is easy to slice thinly. Sirloin, ribeye, or even flank steak work well. If you’re using a tougher cut, marinate it before cooking to tenderize it.
Onion and Pepper Perfection: Don’t rush the sautéing process. The onions and peppers should be cooked until they are soft, sweet, and caramelized. This adds a depth of flavor that is essential to the dish.
Cheese Choices: Provolone and cheddar are the classic cheeses for a Philly cheese steak, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses. Monterey Jack, Swiss, or even pepper jack would be delicious.
Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a little more milk (or cream) until it reaches your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, add a little more shredded cheese.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little kick. You can also add some chopped jalapeños to the pasta salad for extra heat.
Make It Ahead: This pasta salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. In fact, I think it tastes even better the next day, after the flavors have had a chance to meld together.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Refrigerator Storage: Store leftover **Philly Cheese Steak Pasta Salad** in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will actually meld together even more, making it even tastier the next day!
Freezer Instructions: I don’t recommend freezing this pasta salad. The creamy sauce can separate and become grainy when thawed.
Reheating: If you prefer to serve this pasta salad warm, you can gently reheat it in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat. Be careful not to overheat it, as the cheese can become stringy.
Serving Cold: This pasta salad is equally delicious served cold, straight from the refrigerator. It’s perfect for a quick and easy lunch or snack.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
I hope you give this **Philly Cheese Steak Pasta Salad** a try! It’s a fun, flavorful twist on a classic that’s sure to impress. Plus, it’s so easy to make, even on busy weeknights. If you’re looking for more unique and delicious pasta salad recipes, be sure to check out my other creations on the blog. They’re all designed to be simple, flavorful, and family-friendly. Happy cooking, friends! I can’t wait to hear what you think. Leave a comment below and let me know how yours turns out!
Philly Cheese Steak Pasta Salad
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 oz ribeye steak thinly sliced
- 1 cup cooked pasta such as rotini or penne
- 1 cup bell peppers sliced
- 1 cup onions sliced
- 1 cup provolone cheese shredded
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions and set aside.
- In a large skillet, cook the thinly sliced ribeye steak over medium heat until browned.
- Add the sliced bell peppers and onions to the skillet and sauté until tender.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, steak mixture, and shredded provolone cheese.
- Toss the mixture with your favorite dressing and serve chilled.
