The Ultimate Comfort Food
If you’re a fan of hearty, cheesy, and downright indulgent comfort food, you’re in for a treat. This Philly Cheesesteak Mac and Cheese recipe is a culinary fusion that brings together the best of two beloved dishes: the iconic Philly cheesesteak and creamy, satisfying mac and cheese. Perfect for weeknight dinners, game day gatherings, or simply treating yourself, this dish is guaranteed to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is for anyone who craves bold flavors and a hearty meal that doesn’t skimp on the cheese. It’s ideal for busy individuals who want a dish that feels fancy but is deceptively simple to make. The rich provolone cheese sauce perfectly complements the tender sirloin, while the veggies add just the right amount of texture and flavor.
Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s versatile enough to accommodate various preferences and dietary needs. Let’s dive in!
Ingredients for Philly Cheesesteak Mac and Cheese
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups uncooked small pasta shells
- 1 tablespoon oil (for cooking the sirloin)
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- 1 pound thinly sliced sirloin
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 8 ounces white mushrooms, sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup half-and-half
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 cups shredded provolone cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Pasta
Start by cooking the pasta shells according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain them and set them aside. Pro tip: Add a splash of olive oil to prevent the pasta from sticking together.
2. Cook the Sirloin
In a skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering. Add the thinly sliced sirloin and cook for about 5 minutes, or until the beef is nicely browned. Remove the beef from the skillet and cover it loosely with foil to keep warm. Dispose of any excess grease from the skillet, but don’t clean it; the leftover bits add flavor to the next step.
3. Sauté the Vegetables
Using the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onions, green pepper, mushrooms, and minced garlic. Season with salt and black pepper. Cook the vegetables until they’re tender and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
4. Make the Cheese Sauce
Sprinkle the flour over the cooked vegetables and stir well to coat. Gradually pour in the half-and-half and whole milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Once the sauce thickens, stir in the shredded provolone cheese until it’s fully melted and smooth.
5. Combine and Serve
Add the cooked pasta shells to the cheese sauce, mixing thoroughly to ensure every shell is coated. Finally, stir in the cooked sirloin. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve immediately and enjoy this creamy, cheesy masterpiece.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- A large pot for cooking pasta
- A skillet for cooking the sirloin
- A large skillet or saucepan for making the cheese sauce
- A whisk for blending the sauce
- Cutting board and knife for chopping vegetables
Tips and Tricks for the Best Philly Cheesesteak Mac and Cheese
- Cheese Choice: While provolone is classic for its mild, creamy flavor, you can mix in mozzarella for extra gooeyness or sharp cheddar for a more robust taste.
- Pasta Alternatives: If you don’t have small shells, try cavatappi, penne, or elbow macaroni for similar results.
- Meat Options: Substitute sirloin with ground beef or thinly sliced chicken if preferred. For a vegetarian twist, skip the meat and double the mushrooms.
- Veggie Additions: Feel free to toss in other veggies like spinach, zucchini, or roasted red peppers.
- Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce for a kick.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the mac and cheese gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk to restore its creamy consistency. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as it may cause the sauce to separate.
Food and Drink Pairings
Pair this Philly Cheesesteak Mac and Cheese with a crisp side salad to balance the richness of the dish. Garlic bread or soft dinner rolls make excellent accompaniments. For drinks, consider serving a light beer, a robust red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon, or a sparkling water with lemon.
FAQ
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the pasta and cook the sirloin in advance. Store them separately in the fridge. When ready to serve, reheat and make the cheese sauce fresh for the best texture and flavor.
Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
While convenient, pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the sauce’s creaminess. For optimal results, shred the provolone yourself.
Is there a gluten-free option?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free pasta and substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative like cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.
Conclusion
This Philly Cheesesteak Mac and Cheese is a surefire way to satisfy your cravings for bold, cheesy comfort food. It’s rich, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make, perfect for any occasion.
If you try this recipe, please share your experience in the comments below. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family, and subscribe to our blog for more mouthwatering dishes like this one. Happy cooking!