Combining the smoky, savory charm of a Philly cheesesteak with the comforting embrace of creamy mac and cheese, this Philly Cheesesteak Mac and Cheese recipe offers the best of both worlds. Rich in flavor and easy to prepare, it is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
Equipments
To prepare this delicious meal, you’ll need a few kitchen essentials: a large skillet, a pot for boiling pasta, a wooden spoon, a chef’s knife, and a baking dish for mixing and finishing the dish.
How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Mac and Cheese – Step By Step
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling water in a large pot. Once boiling, add in your macaroni noodles and cook them according to the package instructions, usually about 7 to 8 minutes for al dente. Ensure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Steak
Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a touch of oil. When the oil is hot, add thinly sliced steak. Season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned on both sides, approximately 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the steak from the skillet, let rest, then slice into smaller strips and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed, and toss in thinly sliced bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms. Sauté these veggies until they are soft and the onions are caramelized, usually about 6-8 minutes. This adds a robust flavor that complements the steak perfectly.
Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat and sprinkle in flour to create a roux. Stir continuously until it turns golden brown, then slowly whisk in milk until smooth. Once thickened, add in shredded cheese, stirring constantly until it melts into a creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large baking dish, combine the cooked pasta, sliced steak, sautéed vegetables, and cheese sauce. Stir everything until it’s well mixed. Optionally, sprinkle some extra cheese and breadcrumbs on top for a crispy finish.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and the top is golden brown. Remove from the oven, let it cool for a few minutes, and it’s ready to serve!
How to Serve Philly Cheesesteak Mac and Cheese
Serve this irresistible dish in warm bowls, garnished with finely chopped parsley for a pop of color. It pairs excellently with a crisp, green salad or roasted veggies for a balanced meal.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
Ensure even cooking by slicing steak evenly, and sauté vegetables until they’re tender for maximum flavor. Opt for a combination of different cheeses for a richer sauce—Cheddar and Provolone work excellently!
Pumped-Up Protein Version
Turn your Philly Cheesesteak Mac and Cheese into a protein powerhouse by adding extra beef or incorporating diced chicken. Enhance the cheesy goodness and keep you fueled for hours.
Consider adding Greek yogurt to the cheese sauce for added creaminess and protein.
Low Carb with Loads of Flavor
If you’re looking to keep things low carb, swap traditional pasta for cauliflower florets or zucchini noodles. This switch delivers a guilt-free experience while keeping the luscious flavors intact.
Make sure to sauté the veggie noodles just enough to absorb the sauce without becoming mushy.
Storage Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply bake again or microwave, adding a splash of milk to regain creaminess.
FAQs
- Can I use another type of cheese? Yes! Feel free to experiment with cheese types such as Gruyere or Gouda for different flavors.
- How can I make this dish spicier? Add jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne for a heat kick.
- Is fresh steak mandatory? Using quality steak enhances the dish, but you can opt for pre-cooked beef strips for convenience.
- Can I prepare this dish in advance? Yes, assemble it ahead of time and bake just before serving.
- What other add-ins can enhance this recipe? Try adding crispy bacon bits or sun-dried tomatoes.
The Perfect Crowd-Pleaser!
This Philly Cheesesteak Mac and Cheese is a delicious fusion that’s bound to gather praises from your family and friends. If you loved this recipe, don’t forget to share it and leave a comment below! We’d love to hear about your experience.
Philly Cheesesteak Mac and Cheese
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- macaroni pasta
- sirloin steak
- bell pepper
- onion
- mushrooms
- milk
- shredded cheese
- butter
- flour
- salt and pepper
Instructions
Steps
- Boil macaroni noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Heat oil in a skillet, cook the steak slices until browned. Remove, slice further, and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms until caramelized.
- In a saucepan, melt butter, whisk in flour to form a roux, then slowly mix in milk and cheese.
- Combine pasta, steak, veggies, and cheese sauce in a baking dish, mix well.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes or until golden and bubbly.