Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Recipe

There is something irresistibly satisfying about combining the bold flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak into a comforting pasta dish, which is exactly what makes this Philly Cheesesteak Pasta an absolute weeknight game-changer. Imagine tender pasta swimming in a creamy sauce loaded with savory ground beef, sweet green peppers, and melty provolone cheese, all coming together in one luscious, cheesy bite. This dish captures the hearty essence of the iconic sandwich but with the cozy, slurp-worthy appeal of pasta that everyone will love. Once you try this Philly Cheesesteak Pasta, it’s going to become your go-to dinner that feels both indulgent and surprisingly easy to make!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Philly Cheesesteak Pasta calls for straightforward ingredients that work in perfect harmony to create a mouthwatering flavor profile and delightful textures. Each component enhances the dish from the creamy cheese base to the fresh crunch of peppers, making the cooking process simple yet rewarding.

• 1 lb ground beef or steak strips: Choose your favorite to bring that authentic Philly cheesesteak flavor with hearty, meaty goodness.
• 1 green bell pepper, diced: Adds a subtle sweetness and a hint of crunch that complements the beef perfectly.
• 1 onion, diced: Provides a natural sweetness and depth of flavor when sautéed until tender.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth, elevating every bite.
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened: Creates the creamy, velvety sauce base that makes this pasta irresistible.
• 1 cup shredded provolone cheese: Melts beautifully on top for that signature cheesesteak cheesy melt and golden finish.
• 12 oz pasta (penne or rigatoni recommended): Perfect shapes to hold the sauce, ensuring every forkful bursts with flavor.
• 1 cup beef broth: Adds savory richness and keeps the sauce silky without being heavy.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to bring all the flavors into perfect balance.
• 1 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing the veggies and enriching the overall flavor with a smooth finish.

How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add your pasta. Cooking it al dente is the key here, giving the pasta just enough bite to stand up to the creamy sauce without becoming mushy. Once done, drain it and set it aside to let the magic unfold in the sauce.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat until shimmering. Toss in the diced green bell pepper, onion, and minced garlic. Allow these to soften and release their flavors, cooking about 4 to 5 minutes until fragrant and tender. The sweet mellow notes they develop here form the backbone of the dish’s flavor profile.

Step 3: Cook the Meat

Next, add your ground beef or steak strips to the skillet with the vegetables. Break up the ground beef as it cooks, or stir the steak strips as they brown. Season with salt and pepper to your liking. Cooking until the meat is well browned ensures that deep, savory taste that makes Philly Cheesesteak Pasta so addictive.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

With the meat and vegetables nicely cooked, stir in the softened cream cheese and beef broth. Keep the skillet on medium heat and stir continuously until the cream cheese melts fully into the broth, creating a smooth, luscious sauce that coats every ingredient in delicious creaminess.

Step 5: Top with Cheese and Broil

Fold your cooked pasta right into the skillet, making sure each piece is lusciously coated in that dreamy sauce. Spread the shredded provolone cheese evenly over the top. Pop the skillet under the broiler for 3 to 5 minutes until the cheese bubbles, melts, and turns a gorgeous golden brown that invites you to dig in.

Step 6: Serve

Once out of the oven, serve your Philly Cheesesteak Pasta while it’s hot, creamy, and ooey-gooey. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, ensuring you savor every bit of that iconic cheesesteak flavor wrapped in satisfying pasta goodness.

How to Serve Philly Cheesesteak Pasta

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or green onions adds a bright burst of color and a subtle freshness that cuts through the rich cheesiness. If you enjoy a little heat, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce can give this dish an exciting kick without overpowering its classic flavors.

Side Dishes

Paired with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with a tangy vinaigrette, this dish becomes a complete meal balancing richness with freshness. Roasted or steamed vegetables like asparagus or broccoli also work beautifully, offering vibrant color and a nutritious touch to round out the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve this Philly Cheesesteak Pasta in individual oven-safe bowls topped with provolone and broiled until bubbly. You can even stuff the creamy mixture into hollowed out bell peppers for a colorful and playful presentation. Either way, the rich textures and bold flavors will impress your guests every time.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can safely store any leftover Philly Cheesesteak Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best to cool it completely before refrigerating to maintain flavor and texture when reheated.

Freezing

This dish freezes well if you want to make it ahead in bulk. Freeze it in a sturdy airtight container for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge for best results before reheating gently.

Reheating

Reheat your leftover Philly Cheesesteak Pasta in a skillet over low heat to keep the creamy sauce silky, or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally. Adding a splash of beef broth or water helps loosen the sauce and revives that fresh-from-the-oven texture.

FAQs

Can I use steak strips instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Both options work wonderfully. Steak strips give a more traditional Philly cheesesteak feel, whereas ground beef offers a quicker, easier preparation with a slightly different texture.

What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Penne or rigatoni are recommended because their tubular shapes hold onto the creamy sauce perfectly, but you can use any pasta you have on hand, like fusilli or farfalle.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, swap the beef for hearty mushrooms or a meat substitute, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. The cream cheese and provolone still provide that irresistible cheesy flavor.

Can I prepare this dish in advance and reheat later?

Definitely! Philly Cheesesteak Pasta tastes just as great reheated, making it a wonderful make-ahead meal. Just keep it refrigerated and reheat gently for the best texture.

What can I substitute if I don’t have provolone cheese?

Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even white cheddar are great alternatives that melt nicely and complement the flavors well.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal that elevates pasta with the classic flavors of Philly cheesesteak, this Philly Cheesesteak Pasta will quickly become a beloved staple in your kitchen. It’s cheesy, savory, and incredibly satisfying — a perfect dish to share with family or friends any night of the week. Give it a try, and I promise you’ll be hooked from the very first creamy, flavorful bite!

Print