Oh wow, let me tell you about my absolute favorite comfort food: *philly cheesesteak mac and cheese*! Imagine the creamy, cheesy goodness of mac and cheese paired with the savory, mouthwatering flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak. It’s like a delicious hug in a bowl! I first whipped this up one rainy afternoon when I was craving something hearty and satisfying. The combination of tender ribeye, sautéed peppers, and melted provolone just makes my heart sing. Trust me, once you’ve tasted this dish, you’ll be dreaming about it long after the last bite!
Ingredients List
Here’s everything you’ll need to create this mouthwatering *philly cheesesteak mac and cheese*. I promise, it’s worth every bite!
8 oz elbow macaroni
1 lb ribeye steak, sliced thin
1 medium onion, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
2 cups shredded provolone cheese
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 cups milk
4 tbsp butter
4 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure to have everything prepped and ready to go before you start cooking. It’ll make the process so much smoother, and you’ll be enjoying your delicious dish in no time!
How to Prepare *Philly Cheesesteak Mac and Cheese*
Alright, let’s get cooking! This part is where the magic happens, and I can’t wait for you to dive into this delicious dish. Follow these steps, and you’ll have the most comforting *philly cheesesteak mac and cheese* in no time!
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial for getting that perfect bubbly finish later on!
While the oven warms up, grab a pot and cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Once they’re al dente, drain them and set aside. You want them a little firm because they’ll soak up all those amazing flavors later.
Now, let’s move onto the steak! In a large skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once it’s nice and melted, toss in the chopped onions and bell peppers. Sauté until they’re softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Oh, the smell is heavenly!
Next, add the thinly sliced ribeye steak to the skillet. Cook it until it’s browned, which should take about 4-5 minutes. Don’t be afraid to stir it around; you want everything to get to know each other in that skillet!
While your steak and veggies are doing their thing, let’s make the cheese sauce. In a separate pot, melt another 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, sprinkle in the 4 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and whisk it together for about a minute to form a roux.
Gradually whisk in the 2 cups of milk. Keep stirring until the mixture thickens up nicely—this usually takes about 3-5 minutes. You want it to be creamy and luscious!
Now, stir in the shredded provolone and cheddar cheese until they melt into that dreamy sauce. It should be ooey-gooey perfection!
Time to bring it all together! In a large baking dish, combine the cooked macaroni, the steak and veggie mixture, and the cheese sauce. Give it a good stir to make sure everything is well-coated.
Finally, pop the dish in the oven and bake for 20 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s all bubbly and golden on top. Trust me, it smells incredible!
And there you have it! You’re just moments away from digging into your *philly cheesesteak mac and cheese*. Enjoy every last cheesy bite!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the nutritional goodness of this *philly cheesesteak mac and cheese*! Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. Here’s what you can expect per serving:
Calories: 600
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 90mg
Sodium: 800mg
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 2g
Protein: 35g
This dish is definitely a hearty one, packing in a good amount of protein thanks to the ribeye steak and cheese. Just remember, it’s all about balance! Enjoy your delicious creation while savoring every cheesy bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick preparation time: With just 15 minutes of prep and 25 minutes of cooking, you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time!
Creamy and flavorful: The combination of melted provolone and cheddar creates a rich, creamy sauce that perfectly complements the savory ribeye and veggies.
Family-friendly dish: Kids and adults alike will devour this comforting dish. It’s a fantastic way to get everyone to enjoy their veggies!
Satisfying main course: This isn’t just a side dish; it’s a hearty, filling meal that will leave everyone feeling satisfied and happy.
Tips for Success
Philly Cheesesteak Mac and Cheese: 7 Comforting Bites 6
Alright, my fellow cooks! Let’s make sure your *philly cheesesteak mac and cheese* turns out absolutely perfect. Here are some of my favorite tips to keep in mind:
Use leftover steak: If you have some steak from a previous meal, this is a fantastic way to save time! Just slice it thin and toss it in.
Mix up the cheeses: Feel free to play around with different types of cheese. If you’re a fan of gouda or smoked cheese, go for it! It could add a whole new layer of flavor.
Don’t skip the salt and pepper: Seasoning is key! Taste your cheese sauce before combining it with everything. You want that flavor to shine through!
For extra creaminess: If you want to take this dish to the next level, consider adding a splash of cream to your cheese sauce. It makes for an even richer texture!
Top it off: For a cheesy crust, sprinkle some extra cheese on top before baking. Trust me, you’ll thank me later when you pull out that gooey, golden masterpiece!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to create a mouthwatering masterpiece! Enjoy the cooking process and have fun with it!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to shake things up a bit, there are so many fun ways to put your spin on this *philly cheesesteak mac and cheese*! Here are a few ideas that I absolutely love:
Cheese Swap: Try using different cheeses! If you want a sharper flavor, mix in some aged cheddar or even a bit of blue cheese. For a smoky twist, smoked gouda is a fantastic option!
Add Veggies: Sneak in some extra veggies to boost nutrition and flavor. Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or even jalapeños can add a delicious kick and keep things interesting.
Spice It Up: Feeling spicy? Add some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce for a little heat. It’s a great way to elevate the flavor profile!
Make It Tex-Mex: Swap out the ribeye for seasoned ground beef or chicken, and mix in some taco seasoning. Top with jalapeños and serve with salsa for a fun twist!
Vegetarian Version: If you’re looking for a meatless option, replace the steak with grilled zucchini or eggplant. You can also use a plant-based cheese for that creamy goodness!
These variations not only keep things exciting but also let you personalize the dish to fit your taste. So, don’t be afraid to get creative and make this *philly cheesesteak mac and cheese* your own!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Alright, let’s chat about what to do with those delicious leftovers! I know it’s hard to believe, but sometimes there are actually leftovers of this *philly cheesesteak mac and cheese*. Here’s how to store and reheat it to keep that cheesy goodness intact!
First things first, once your mac and cheese has cooled down a bit, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. This will help keep it fresh for you! You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure it’s sealed well so it doesn’t dry out or absorb any fridge odors.
Now, when you’re ready to enjoy your cheesy creation again, you can either reheat it in the microwave or the oven. If you’re using the microwave, pop it in for about 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. This helps heat it evenly and keeps it creamy. Just be careful not to overcook it; we want it warm, not dried out!
If you prefer the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C) and place your mac and cheese in an oven-safe dish. Add a little splash of milk to help bring back that creamy texture, then cover it with foil to prevent it from browning too much. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until it’s heated through and bubbly.
And voila! You’re ready to dig into those glorious leftovers without losing any of that delicious flavor. Enjoy every cheesy bite, my friends!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve whipped up this incredible *philly cheesesteak mac and cheese*, let’s talk about the perfect companions to elevate your meal! Trust me, the right sides can take your dining experience to a whole new level.
Fresh Garden Salad: A light, crunchy salad is a fantastic way to balance the richness of the mac and cheese. Toss together some mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a zesty vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
Garlic Bread: You can’t go wrong with warm, buttery garlic bread! It’s perfect for mopping up all that cheesy goodness and adds a delightful crunch to each bite.
Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds a wonderful crunch and a bit of acidity that cuts through the creaminess of the dish. Plus, it’s super easy to make or can be found ready-made!
Roasted Vegetables: For a healthier option, serve up some roasted veggies like broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts. Their caramelized flavor pairs beautifully with the savory notes of the mac and cheese.
Pickles or Jalapeños: Want to add a little zing? Serve some pickles or spicy jalapeños on the side. They’ll bring a bright and tangy pop that complements the cheesy dish perfectly.
With these sides, your *philly cheesesteak mac and cheese* becomes a complete meal that’s sure to impress! Enjoy the delicious combination and don’t forget to share with family and friends—if you can bear to part with any, that is!
FAQ Section
Can I make *philly cheesesteak mac and cheese* ahead of time? Absolutely! This dish is perfect for meal prep. You can assemble everything in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to a day. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it heats through properly!
What can I substitute for ribeye steak? If ribeye isn’t your thing or you want to save some time, you can use sirloin or even ground beef. For a lighter option, grilled chicken or turkey works well too. Just make sure to season it nicely to keep that savory flavor coming through!
Can I use a different type of cheese? Absolutely! While provolone and cheddar are classic choices, feel free to mix and match based on your preferences. Gouda, Monterey Jack, or even a bit of blue cheese can add a unique twist to the flavor profile!
How do I store leftovers? After your *philly cheesesteak mac and cheese* has cooled, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the fridge for about 3 days. Just reheat gently to bring back that creamy deliciousness!
Can I freeze this dish? Yes, you can freeze it! Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It should be good for about 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat it in the oven or microwave.
What do you think?
Share your thoughts, tips, or variations on this recipe!