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This onepot cheese steak hamburger helperinspired meal brings together the hearty comfort of a classic cheese steak and the ease of a skillet dinner. Ground beef is cooked with onions and green peppers then simmered with beef broth, tomato sauce, and A1 Steak Sauce along with uncooked spiral pasta. The final touch of shredded mozzarella cheese melts into a creamy, cheesy sauce that makes this dish a family favorite for busy weeknights.
I first made this on a chilly evening when I needed something quick but satisfying. Since then my family requests it whenever the weather turns cold or we crave a cozy onepan meal.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: adds rich meaty flavor and using eighty to eightyfive percent lean ensures a tender texture
- Onion: sweetens the dish as it cooks and blends into the sauce pick firm onions with shiny skins for the best results
- Green bell pepper: adds a classic cheese steak note with a pop of color select peppers without soft spots for crunch
- Steak seasoning: with garlic powder onion powder paprika and oregano layers savory and herby flavors fresh spices make all the difference
- A1 Steak Sauce: brings a punch of umami depth original flavor works best here
- Beef broth: rounds out the sauce with savory notes low sodium lets you control saltiness
- Milk: adds creaminess whole or two percent milk yields the best consistency
- Tomato sauce: provides subtle tang and helps bind the sauce use plain without added spices
- Spiral pasta: such as rotini or fusilli holds the cheesy sauce well
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: melts into creamy perfection shredding a block cheese yourself improves meltability
Instructions
- Brown the Beef:
- Start by adding ground beef to a large skillet. Cook over mediumhigh heat for about five to seven minutes. Use a wooden spoon to break it up as it browns. The beef should lose all pink color and develop light caramelization which builds flavor.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- Add chopped onion and chopped green bell pepper to the browned beef. Sauté together for three to four minutes until onions soften and become fragrant. Scrape the bottom of the skillet to incorporate flavorful browned bits.
- Season the Mixture:
- Drain any excess grease from the pan to avoid a greasy sauce. Sprinkle in steak seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and oregano then stir well to coat everything evenly. Toast the spices for about a minute in the hot pan to deepen their aroma.
- Add Liquids and Pasta:
- Pour in beef broth, A1 Steak Sauce, tomato sauce, and milk all at once. Stir to combine. Add uncooked spiral pasta directly into the skillet so it can absorb the flavorful cooking liquid as it softens.
- Simmer and Cook:
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cover the skillet with a tightfitting lid. Cook on low heat for ten to fifteen minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The pasta should be tender and most of the liquid absorbed when ready.
- Melt in the Cheese:
- Remove the lid and stir in one cup of shredded mozzarella cheese until melted and creamy. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top and cover again for two to three minutes to melt into a gooey top layer.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Spoon hot servings into bowls. The cheese should be stringy and the sauce thick and rich. Serve immediately while bubbly and fresh.
I really enjoy how the green bell pepper gives this dish an authentic cheese steak vibe. One winter night my kids called it magic food because they licked their bowls clean which made me laugh and want to keep making it.
Storage Tips
Allow leftovers to cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. Keep refrigerated for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave with a splash of milk to retain creaminess. This dish also freezes well for up to two months which is great for meal prep on busy weeks.
Ingredient Substitutions
Ground turkey works as a lighter alternative to ground beef. If you don’t have mozzarella on hand use a blend of cheddar and provolone for added cheese steak flavors. Gluten free pasta is fine but you may need extra broth as it absorbs more liquid.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is a hearty all in one meal but pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or warm garlic bread. Adding a dash of hot sauce or pickled jalapeños can give it a nice spicy kick.
This skillet meal is quick, comforting, and perfect for busy weeknights. It reheats well and makes great leftovers.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What type of pasta works best?
Spiral pasta such as rotini or fusilli is ideal since it holds the sauce well. Elbow macaroni or shells are also good substitutes.
- → Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, provolone or cheddar can be used for varied flavor profiles, though mozzarella provides the classic melty texture.
- → Is there a way to make this dish healthier?
Swap ground turkey or lean beef for traditional ground beef, add extra vegetables like mushrooms or spinach, and choose reduced-fat cheese and milk.
- → Can this be made ahead?
Yes, it reheats well and can be refrigerated for up to three days. Adding a splash of milk when reheating helps maintain creaminess.
- → What sides pair well with this meal?
Crisp green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables complement this hearty skillet dish nicely.
- → How can I add heat to this dish?
Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños with the onions and peppers during cooking for a spicy kick.