If you’re a fan of classic Philly cheesesteaks and indulgent mac and cheese, then prepare to have your taste buds blown away by the delectable fusion of Loaded Philly Cheesesteak Mac. This mouthwatering dish combines the savory, beefy flavors of a Philly cheesesteak with the rich, creamy comfort of homemade macaroni and cheese. It’s a match made in culinary heaven that’s sure to satisfy your cravings for something hearty, cheesy, and utterly irresistible.
Table of Contents
Loaded Philly Cheesesteak Mac for Comfort Food Lovers
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Loaded Philly Cheesesteak Mac is the ultimate comfort food fusion, combining the flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak with creamy macaroni and cheese. This hearty dish features tender beef, sautéed vegetables, and a rich cheese sauce that will warm your soul and satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients
8 oz elbow macaroni
1 lb ribeye or sirloin steak, thinly sliced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 bell pepper, diced
1 onion, diced
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons flour
2 cups milk
1 cup provolone cheese, shredded
1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Boil the elbow macaroni according to package instructions in salted water. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced beef, bell pepper, and onion. Sauté until the beef is browned and vegetables are tender, about 8–10 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
4. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it thicken for about 5 minutes.
5. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the provolone and cheddar cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
6. Add the cooked macaroni and the beef-vegetable mixture to the cheese sauce. Stir until everything is well combined and evenly coated.
7. Serve hot, garnished with extra cheese if desired.
Notes
This dish can be customized by using different types of cheese or adding vegetables such as mushrooms.
For a vegetarian option, substitute the beef with sautéed mushrooms or plant-based crumbles.
Gluten-free pasta can be used for a gluten-free version.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Unraveling the Key Ingredients of Loaded Philly Cheesesteak Mac
At the heart of this culinary masterpiece lies a carefully curated selection of ingredients that work in perfect harmony. Let’s take a closer look at what makes Loaded Philly Cheesesteak Mac so special:
The Pasta: Elbow Macaroni
While any type of pasta can be used, elbow macaroni is the classic choice for this dish. Its bite-sized shape and ability to hold onto the creamy cheese sauce make it the perfect vehicle for the bold Philly cheesesteak flavors.
The Beef: Thinly Sliced Ribeye or Sirloin
The star of the show is the thinly sliced beef, which can be either ribeye or sirloin. These cuts of meat not only provide the authentic Philly cheesesteak taste but also offer a tender, juicy texture that complements the creamy mac and cheese.
The Veggies: Bell Peppers and Onions
No Philly cheesesteak is complete without the classic combo of sautéed bell peppers and onions. These vegetables add a delightful crunch and a burst of flavor that perfectly balances the richness of the dish.
The Cheese: Provolone and Cheddar
The cheese sauce is the glue that holds this Loaded Philly Cheesesteak Mac together. A blend of provolone and cheddar cheeses creates a creamy, melty, and irresistibly cheesy sauce that coats every bite.
Crafting the Perfect Loaded Philly Cheesesteak Mac
Now that we’ve delved into the key ingredients, let’s explore the step-by-step process of bringing this Loaded Philly Cheesesteak Mac masterpiece to life:
Cooking the Pasta
Start by boiling the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions, ensuring it’s cooked al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside, ready to be incorporated into the final dish.
Sautéing the Beef and Veggies
In a large skillet, sauté the thinly sliced beef, bell peppers, and onions until the beef is browned and the vegetables are tender. This step infuses the dish with the classic Philly cheesesteak flavors.
Creating the Creamy Cheese Sauce
To make the cheese sauce, melt butter in a saucepan, then whisk in flour to create a roux. Gradually pour in milk, whisking constantly, until the sauce thickens. Once it reaches the desired consistency, stir in the shredded provolone and cheddar cheeses until they’re fully melted and incorporated.
Combining the Components
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, sautéed beef and vegetables, and the creamy cheese sauce. Stir everything together until the pasta is evenly coated and the flavors are well-integrated.
Serving and Enjoying
Scoop the Loaded Philly Cheesesteak Mac into individual bowls and serve it hot, straight from the oven. The combination of tender beef, melted cheese, and al dente pasta will have your taste buds dancing with delight.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
To make the most of your Loaded Philly Cheesesteak Mac experience, consider these serving suggestions and pairings:
- Serve it alongside a fresh, crisp salad for a balanced meal.
- Pair it with garlic bread or a crusty baguette to soak up every last drop of that dreamy cheese sauce.
- For a beverage pairing, a light, hoppy beer or a refreshing sweet tea complement the flavors beautifully.
- For a unique twist, bake the Loaded Philly Cheesesteak Mac in a casserole dish and top it with crispy breadcrumbs or extra cheese.
Nutritional Information and Health Considerations
While Loaded Philly Cheesesteak Mac is undoubtedly a comfort food indulgence, it can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet. A single serving (approximately 1 cup) contains approximately 600 calories, with a macronutrient breakdown of 35g of carbohydrates, 35g of protein, and 30g of fat. The dish is a good source of calcium, iron, and various vitamins, making it a satisfying and nourishing meal option.
For those looking to make it a bit lighter, you can experiment with using lower-fat cheese, substituting ground turkey or plant-based protein for the beef, or incorporating more vegetables into the mix. However, the true essence of Loaded Philly Cheesesteak Mac lies in its indulgent, comfort-food qualities, so don’t be afraid to indulge in this delectable dish from time to time.
Variations and Twists on Loaded Philly Cheesesteak Mac
While the classic Loaded Philly Cheesesteak Mac is a true delight, there’s always room for creativity and experimentation. Here are a few variations to consider:
- Vegetarian/Vegan Option: Swap the beef for plant-based protein, such as sautéed mushrooms or crumbled tofu, to create a meatless version that’s equally satisfying.
- Gluten-Free Loaded Philly Cheesesteak Mac: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free to make this dish accessible to those with dietary restrictions.
- Spicy Loaded Philly Cheesesteak Mac: Add a kick of heat by incorporating diced jalapeños, a sprinkle of cayenne pepper, or a generous drizzle of hot sauce.
- International Twist: Experiment with global flavors by incorporating Mexican spices, Asian-inspired sauces, or Mediterranean herbs and seasonings to create unique and flavorful variations.
FAQs About Loaded Philly Cheesesteak Mac
1. What is Loaded Philly Cheesesteak Mac?
Loaded Philly Cheesesteak Mac is a delicious fusion dish that combines classic macaroni and cheese with the savory flavors of a Philly cheesesteak. It typically includes cooked macaroni pasta, a creamy cheese sauce, sautéed steak, bell peppers, onions, and sometimes additional toppings like melted cheese, jalapeños, or breadcrumbs.
2. How do I prepare Loaded Philly Cheesesteak Mac?
To prepare Loaded Philly Cheesesteak Mac, start by cooking the macaroni according to package instructions. In a separate skillet, sauté thinly sliced steak, onions, and bell peppers until cooked. Then, combine the macaroni with a cheese sauce (made from butter, flour, milk, and cheese) and mix in the sautéed steak and vegetables. Top with additional cheese or breadcrumbs if desired, and bake until golden and bubbly.
3. Can I make Loaded Philly Cheesesteak Mac ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Loaded Philly Cheesesteak Mac ahead of time! Prepare the dish as directed, but instead of baking it, cover it and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake it in the oven until heated through and bubbly, adjusting the baking time as needed.
4. What can I serve with Loaded Philly Cheesesteak Mac?
Loaded Philly Cheesesteak Mac can be served as a main dish or a hearty side. It pairs well with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables. For a complete meal, you might also consider serving it with pickles or coleslaw for added crunch.
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- Bacon Cheeseburger Stuffed Shells
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Conclusion
There’s no denying the irresistible appeal of Loaded Philly Cheesesteak Mac. This comfort food masterpiece seamlessly blends the classic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak with the creamy, indulgent goodness of homemade mac and cheese. Whether you’re craving a hearty, satisfying meal or simply looking to indulge in some culinary bliss, this dish is sure to delight your taste buds and leave you thoroughly satisfied. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your kitchen, and get ready to experience the ultimate comfort food fusion that is Loaded Philly Cheesesteak Mac!
Craving even more magical meals? Browse Amelia’s Pinterest boards for quick dinners, cozy bakes, and tons of flavorful inspiration.