Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells & Cheese A Fusion of Two Comfort Food Classics
Prepare to delight in a savory fusion of two beloved comfort food classics with this Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells & Cheese recipe. Tender pasta shells are generously stuffed with a flavorful mixture of thinly sliced steak, sautéed onions and bell peppers, and ooey-gooey melted cheese, all bathed in a rich and creamy cheese sauce. It’s a hearty and satisfying dish that combines the essence of a Philly cheesesteak with the indulgence of mac ‘n’ cheese. Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure that’s as comforting as it is delicious.
As you begin crafting Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells & Cheese, imagine the aroma of sizzling steak, the sizzle of sautéed vegetables, and the luxurious creaminess of cheese sauce. Visualize the smiles on the faces of those who will enjoy this creative and indulgent dish, appreciating the melding of flavors and textures. Let’s dive into the world of culinary fusion and create a dish that’s perfect for a special meal or any time you want to savor a comforting and flavorful combination.
Ingredients:
A Collection of Ingredients for Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells & Cheese
For the Stuffed Shells:
- 24 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 pound thinly sliced steak (such as ribeye or sirloin)
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups shredded provolone cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cups milk
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Create a Flavorful Fusion of Philly Cheesesteak and Mac ‘n’ Cheese
1. Cooking the Pasta Shells: Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Preparing the Steak Filling: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Sauté the thinly sliced steak until browned and cooked to your desired level of doneness. Remove the steak from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sautéing Vegetables: In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed. Sauté the thinly sliced green bell pepper and onion until softened and slightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Mixing Steak and Vegetables: Return the cooked steak to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Mix well to combine the flavors. Remove the skillet from heat.
5. Stuffing the Shells: Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the steak and vegetable mixture. Sprinkle shredded provolone cheese over the stuffed shells. Arrange the stuffed shells in a baking dish.
6. Preparing the Cheese Sauce: In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the all-purpose flour to create a roux. Cook for a minute or two until the roux is lightly golden.
7. Creating the Cheese Sauce: Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and comes to a gentle boil. Reduce heat and simmer for a few minutes. Add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, stirring until they melt and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Pouring Cheese Sauce: Pour the cheese sauce over the stuffed shells in the baking dish, ensuring even coverage.
9. Baking to Perfection: Bake the Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells & Cheese in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned.
10. Serving and Enjoyment: Remove the baked dish from the oven, let it cool slightly, and serve portions of this delicious fusion dish. Savor the harmonious blend of flavors and textures.
Tips and Variations:
Elevate Your Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells & Cheese Experience
Tips:
- If you prefer a spicier kick, you can add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the steak and vegetable mixture.
Variations:
- Mushroom Magic: Add sautéed mushrooms to the steak and vegetable mixture for an extra layer of umami flavor.
Pairing Suggestion: Serve your Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells & Cheese with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables to balance out the richness of the dish.
Storage and Enjoyment: Store any leftovers of this fusion dish in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or oven for a comforting meal later on.
Cook’s Note: This recipe brings together the beloved flavors of Philly cheesesteak and mac ‘n’ cheese in a delightful fusion that’s both hearty and indulgent. As you savor each bite, take pride in the way you’ve combined two comfort food classics into a single, flavorful dish. The Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells & Cheese isn’t just about taste; it’s a celebration of culinary creativity that brings joy to your table. Share it with friends and family, embrace the fusion of flavors, and enjoy the experience of savoring a comforting and indulgent meal.
