Healthy Philly cheesesteak pasta has become my go-to weeknight meal when I’m craving that classic comfort food but want to keep it light. I remember my first attempt at a healthier version of this iconic dish; I was worried it wouldn’t taste authentic, but boy was I wrong! This recipe delivers all the savory, cheesy goodness you expect, but with lean beef, loads of veggies, and a creamy sauce that feels totally decadent. The aroma of sautéed onions, peppers, and garlic filling my kitchen is just heavenly. Ready to whip up this amazing healthy Philly cheesesteak pasta recipe? Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Healthy Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
This dish is a game-changer for weeknight dinners, offering all the deliciousness of a classic cheesesteak without the guilt. Here’s why you’ll be making it again and again:
- It’s incredibly satisfying and flavorful.
- You can feel good about serving a low calorie Philly cheesesteak pasta.
- It’s a fantastic one-pot meal, meaning minimal cleanup!
- Packed with lean beef and plenty of veggies for a wholesome meal.
- This is an easy healthy Philly cheesesteak pasta recipe that even beginners can master.
- It’s versatile and can be customized to your liking.
- Enjoy that beloved cheesesteak taste in a comforting pasta bowl.
Ingredients for Healthy Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
Gather these simple ingredients for a truly wholesome meal. This Philly cheesesteak pasta with lean beef is packed with flavor and good-for-you additions. We’re loading it up with tons of Philly cheesesteak pasta with vegetables for extra nutrition and taste.
- 1 lb extra-lean ground beef – this is key for a lighter dish
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced – for that classic sweet pepper flavor
- 1 onion, sliced – adds a savory depth
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced – for an earthy, meaty texture
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – essential for bold flavor
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce – brings umami and tang
- 3 cups beef broth – forms the base of our sauce
- 2 cups water – to thin the sauce and cook the pasta
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt – to enhance all the flavors
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – a little extra garlic punch
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder – for a rounded savory note
- 1 lb rotini pasta – holds the sauce beautifully
- 3 oz provolone cheese, shredded – for that signature cheesy pull
- 1/4 cup reduced-fat cream cheese – makes the sauce wonderfully creamy
How to Make Healthy Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
Making this delicious dish is surprisingly simple, and it all comes together in one pot, making cleanup a breeze! We’re focusing on a Philly cheesesteak pasta without grease, so you can enjoy all the flavor you love.
- Step 1: Grab a large Dutch oven or a deep skillet. Add your 1 lb extra-lean ground beef and cook it over medium-high heat. Break it up as it cooks until it’s nicely browned. I like to drain off any excess fat, even with lean beef, to keep things truly light. Scoop the browned beef out with a slotted spoon and set it aside.
- Step 2: In that same pot, toss in the 1 green bell pepper, sliced, 1 onion, sliced, and 8 oz mushrooms, sliced. Sauté these veggies for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re nice and tender. The kitchen will start smelling amazing! Add the 3 cloves garlic, minced and cook for just one more minute until fragrant.
- Step 3: Return the cooked beef to the pot with the softened vegetables. Now, stir in the 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce, 3 cups beef broth, 2 cups water, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon onion powder. Give it all a good stir and bring the mixture to a rolling boil. This is where the magic starts to happen for how to make healthy Philly cheesesteak pasta.
- Step 4: Add 1 lb rotini pasta directly to the pot, making sure to stir it well so it doesn’t clump together. Once the pasta is submerged, cover the pot, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer, and let it cook for about 10 minutes. Stir it a couple of times during this period to ensure even cooking. The pasta should be tender, and most of the liquid absorbed.
- Step 5: Finally, stir in the 3 oz provolone cheese, shredded, and 1/4 cup reduced-fat cream cheese. Keep stirring until the cheeses melt completely, creating a wonderfully creamy, cheesy sauce that coats every strand of pasta. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed. Serve this delicious and easy healthy Philly cheesesteak pasta immediately!
Pro Tips for the Best Healthy Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
Want to elevate your healthy Philly cheesesteak pasta game? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make this dish even better.
- Always use extra-lean ground beef or even ground turkey for the leanest results.
- Don’t skip browning the beef properly; this adds a depth of flavor essential for that classic cheesesteak taste.
- Sautéing the vegetables until they’re tender-crisp ensures they don’t get mushy in the pasta.
- For an even creamier sauce, a splash of milk or half-and-half can be added with the cheeses.
Expert Tips for a Wholesome Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
To achieve a truly wholesome Philly cheesesteak pasta, consider lightly toasting your pasta before adding the liquids. This step helps the pasta absorb flavor more effectively and maintain a better texture. It’s a small step that makes a big difference! For more tips on cooking pasta, check out this guide on spaghetti with garlic and oil.
Can I make Healthy Philly Cheesesteak Pasta ahead of time?
Yes, you absolutely can prepare this dish ahead of time. Cook the pasta and sauce as directed, let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if it seems too thick.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Healthy Philly Cheesesteak Pasta?
A common pitfall is overcooking the pasta, which can lead to a mushy dish. Another mistake is not draining the beef well enough, adding unnecessary grease. Ensure you stir the pasta frequently during cooking to prevent sticking and clumping. Learn more about the benefits of onions, a key ingredient here.
Best Ways to Serve Healthy Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
This healthy Philly cheesesteak pasta is so versatile and satisfying on its own, but I love dressing it up a bit. Serving it in a Philly cheesesteak pasta bowl healthy makes it feel extra special. For a complete meal, I often pair it with a simple side salad. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the pasta beautifully. Another favorite is serving it with some steamed broccoli or roasted asparagus for an extra boost of greens. It’s a hearty dish that stands on its own, but these additions just make it even more delicious! Consider a Caprese salad for a fresh contrast.
Nutrition Facts for Healthy Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
This lighter take on a classic comfort food is surprisingly balanced. Enjoying this low fat Philly cheesesteak pasta means you don’t have to sacrifice flavor for health.
- Calories: 432
- Fat: 19g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Protein: 24g
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
How to Store and Reheat Healthy Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
This Philly cheesesteak pasta healthier version is fantastic for meal prep because it stores and reheats beautifully. Once the pasta has cooled down completely, spoon any leftovers into airtight containers. For best results, I usually aim to store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. It’s always a lifesaver to have a quick and tasty meal ready to go!
If you want to prepare this dish even further in advance, it freezes wonderfully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Properly stored, your healthy Philly cheesesteak pasta can last in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, the best way to reheat is on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water to loosen the sauce. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, stirring halfway through. If you enjoy pasta dishes, you might also like this spaghetti with mushroom sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions About Healthy Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
What is a healthy Philly cheesesteak pasta?
A healthy Philly cheesesteak pasta is essentially a lighter, more nutrient-dense version of the classic dish. It swaps out traditional high-fat ingredients for leaner proteins, more vegetables, and often whole wheat pasta, while still capturing that beloved cheesy, savory flavor profile. My recipe focuses on using extra-lean beef and plenty of veggies to achieve this.
Why choose healthy Philly cheesesteak pasta?
You choose this version because you get all the comforting, delicious flavors of a Philly cheesesteak without the heavy, greasy feeling. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a hearty meal that’s also packed with protein and fiber, making it a great option for weeknight dinners or anyone looking for a more balanced way to satisfy a craving. It’s a win-win for taste and health!
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! For a vegetarian twist on this Philly cheesesteak pasta bowl healthy, you can easily substitute the ground beef with sliced mushrooms or a plant-based ground meat alternative. Sautéing extra mushrooms or adding some firm tofu cubes that have been seasoned with steak seasoning can also provide a satisfying texture and flavor. It’s a versatile dish that adapts well! You might also enjoy these veggie burgers.
Is this a good meal prep option?
Yes, this easy healthy Philly cheesesteak pasta is an excellent meal prep choice. The flavors actually meld and deepen as it sits, making it even tastier the next day. Just be sure to store it in airtight containers in the refrigerator and reheat gently. It makes having a delicious, balanced meal ready to go incredibly convenient.
Variations of Healthy Philly Cheesesteak Pasta You Can Try
This dish is so adaptable, you can easily tweak it to fit your needs. For those focused on Philly cheesesteak pasta for weight loss, swapping the pasta is a fantastic idea. Try using Philly cheesesteak pasta with whole wheat pasta for added fiber and a slightly nuttier flavor. Another great option is to use zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a super low-carb, veggie-packed meal. If you’re looking for a different protein, ground turkey or chicken works wonderfully as a lean alternative. For a spicy kick, add some sliced jalapeños or a dash of your favorite hot sauce when you sauté the vegetables. You can even turn this into a layered bake by assembling it in a casserole dish and topping with extra cheese for a Philly cheesesteak pasta casserole healthy twist! For more information on healthy grains, explore the benefits of barley.
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Healthy Philly Cheesesteak Pasta That Won’t Disappoint
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A healthier spin on the classic Philly cheesesteak, this pasta dish combines lean beef, vegetables, and creamy cheese sauce for a satisfying and flavorful meal, made conveniently in one pot.
Ingredients
- 1 lb extra-lean ground beef
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 3 cups beef broth
- 2 cups water
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 lb rotini pasta
- 3 oz provolone cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup reduced-fat cream cheese
Instructions
- In a large Dutch oven, cook the extra-lean ground beef over medium-high heat until browned. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the sliced bell pepper, onion, and mushrooms. Cook for 8-10 minutes until tender. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Return the cooked beef to the pot. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, beef broth, water, salt, garlic powder, and onion powder. Bring to a boil.
- Add the rotini pasta to the pot, stirring to combine. Cover and reduce heat to a simmer. Cook for about 10 minutes until the pasta is tender.
- Stir in shredded provolone and reduced-fat cream cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot.
Notes
- Opt for extra-lean ground beef to reduce fat content.
- Provolone cheese adds a smoky flavor, while reduced-fat cream cheese contributes to creaminess without excess calories.
- Onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms provide essential vitamins and minerals.
- Substitute ground beef with mushrooms or plant-based meat alternatives for a vegetarian version.
- Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.
- Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Dishes
- Method: One Pot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 432
- Fat: 19g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Protein: 24g
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