If you’ve ever wished you could enjoy the iconic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak in pasta form, this Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Recipe is going to be your new go-to comfort dish. Imagine tender strips of steak or savory ground beef mingling with sautéed peppers and onions, all wrapped up in a luscious, creamy sauce layered with melted provolone cheese, and perfectly coated over al dente pasta. It’s the ultimate mashup of familiar favorites that comes together in about 30 minutes, making it an ideal weeknight meal packed with bold, satisfying flavors.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet essential to recreating that classic Philly cheesesteak taste, while also bringing a beautiful balance of color, texture, and irresistible creaminess to this pasta dish.
- 1 lb ground beef or steak strips: The star protein that delivers that authentic Philly cheesesteak experience.
- 1 green bell pepper, diced: Adds crunch and a fresh, slightly sweet flavor that brightens the dish.
- 1 onion, diced: Provides savory depth and sweetness once sautéed.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings aromatic warmth and complexity.
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened: Creates a rich, creamy sauce to hug every bite of pasta.
- 1 cup shredded provolone cheese: Melts beautifully on top, offering that signature cheesesteak gooey finish.
- 12 oz pasta (penne or rigatoni recommended): Sturdy shapes that hold the sauce and mix-ins wonderfully.
- 1 cup beef broth: Adds savory moisture and intensifies the meaty flavors in the sauce.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to perfectly balance the dish.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing veggies and bringing everything together with a subtle fruitiness.
How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your choice of penne or rigatoni, cooking it until just al dente, so it still has a slight bite to stand up to the rich sauce. Drain and set it aside while you prepare the flavorful components.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then toss in the diced green bell pepper, onion, and minced garlic. Let them soften and become fragrant, about five minutes. This step builds the foundational flavors and a slight sweetness that pairs beautifully with the beef.
Step 3: Cook the Meat
Next, add your choice of ground beef or steak strips to the skillet with veggies. Brown it thoroughly, breaking up the ground beef as it cooks, or sear the steak strips until tender and juicy. This step infuses the entire dish with heartiness and that unmistakable Philly cheesesteak essence.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Once the meat is cooked through, stir in the softened cream cheese and beef broth, mixing until the cream cheese melts and transforms into a creamy, velvety sauce. Add your cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat each piece in this luscious mixture evenly. This stage brings all the textures and flavors together in perfect harmony.
Step 5: Top with Cheese and Broil
Sprinkle shredded provolone cheese generously over the pasta. Place the skillet or transfer to an ovenproof dish and set your oven to broil. Let it broil for 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese melts into bubbly, golden perfection. This final step adds that irresistible cheesy crust that makes this Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Recipe so memorable.
How to Serve Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
To take this dish to the next level, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a touch of color and just the right kick. These little touches add freshness and brighten the richness of the pasta.
Side Dishes
Serve alongside a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the creamy pasta. Garlic bread or toasted baguette slices also make excellent companions to soak up any extra sauce and round out this hearty meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun, shareable twist, bake this pasta in a large casserole dish and serve it family-style right from the oven. Alternatively, portion it into individual ramekins and broil the cheese topping for an elegant presentation that’s sure to impress guests at your next dinner party.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure the pasta has cooled down before sealing to keep the sauce creamy and fresh.
Freezing
This Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Recipe freezes well. Freeze in a shallow, freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the best texture.
Reheating
Warm leftovers gently in a skillet over low heat or microwave with a splash of beef broth or water to loosen the sauce. Avoid overcooking to prevent the pasta from drying out or becoming mushy.
FAQs
Can I use different cheeses for this recipe?
Absolutely! While provolone is traditional for Philly cheesesteak flavors, you could substitute mozzarella, cheddar, or even Monterey Jack for a different cheesy twist.
Is it better to use ground beef or steak strips?
Both work well, but steak strips offer a more authentic texture and bite reminiscent of an actual Philly cheesesteak sandwich. Ground beef is quicker and easier while still delicious.
Can I add mushrooms to this Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Recipe?
Yes, sautéed mushrooms complement the dish wonderfully and are often part of the classic sandwich, so feel free to include them when cooking your vegetables.
What pasta shapes work best?
Penne or rigatoni are favorites because their tubular shapes hold onto the creamy sauce perfectly, but you could also use rotini or fusilli if that’s what you have on hand.
Is this dish spicy?
It’s typically mild, but you can easily add heat by tossing in some crushed red pepper flakes while sautéing or as a garnish before serving.
Final Thoughts
Seriously, this Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Recipe has everything you want in a comforting, flavor-packed meal that comes together quickly. Whether you need a crowd-pleaser or a cozy night in treat, it delivers with every bite. Give it a try—you might just find yourself making it on repeat!
Print
Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Philly Cheesesteak Pasta recipe transforms the classic Philly cheesesteak sandwich into a creamy, comforting pasta dish. Ground beef or steak strips are sautéed with bell peppers, onions, and garlic, then combined with creamy melted cheese and tender pasta. Broiled with provolone cheese topping for a bubbly finish, it’s a quick and flavorful meal perfect for a family dinner.
Ingredients
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Meat
- 1 lb ground beef or steak strips
Dairy
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded provolone cheese
Pasta & Broth
- 12 oz pasta (penne or rigatoni recommended)
- 1 cup beef broth
Other
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions, usually around 9 to 12 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced green bell pepper, onion, and minced garlic. Sauté the vegetables for about 5 minutes or until they are softened and fragrant.
- Cook Meat: Add the ground beef or steak strips to the skillet with the vegetables. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the meat is fully browned and cooked through, about 6 to 8 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
- Combine Ingredients: Lower the heat to medium-low and stir in the softened cream cheese and beef broth. Mix thoroughly until the cream cheese melts completely and forms a creamy sauce. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and stir well to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
- Top with Cheese and Broil: Sprinkle the shredded provolone cheese evenly over the pasta in the skillet or transfer to an oven-safe dish if your skillet is not oven-safe. Set your oven to broil and place the dish under the broiler for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the provolone cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden on top.
- Serve: Remove from the oven carefully, serve the Philly Cheesesteak Pasta hot, and enjoy this comforting fusion dish.
Notes
- You can substitute steak strips with thinly sliced ribeye for a more authentic Philly cheesesteak flavor.
- If you prefer, use mozzarella or American cheese instead of provolone for a different cheese profile.
- To make the dish spicier, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes while sautéing the vegetables.
- Be cautious when broiling to avoid burning the cheese; keep a close eye during the last 1-2 minutes.
- Penne or rigatoni pasta holds the sauce well, but any sturdy tubular pasta will work.
