If you have a soft spot for all things cheesesteak but want to shake things up a bit, this Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Recipe is going to be your new obsession. It takes the classic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak—rich, savory beef, tender peppers and onions, creamy cheese—and marries them with comforting pasta for a dish that’s hearty, flavorful, and unexpectedly delightful. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or impressing friends with something unique, this recipe delivers that iconic Philly vibe in every creamy, cheesy bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple yet essential ingredients is the secret to nailing this recipe, each one bringing a unique touch like texture, flavor, or richness that makes the final dish shine.
- Ground beef or steak strips: The protein backbone delivering that authentic Philly cheesesteak taste.
- Green bell pepper, diced: Adds crunch and a fresh vegetal sweetness that balances the beef.
- Onion, diced: Gives savory depth and subtle caramelized notes as it cooks.
- Garlic, minced: Infuses a warm, aromatic punch that enhances every layer.
- Cream cheese, softened: Creates a luscious, creamy sauce that clings to the pasta perfectly.
- Shredded provolone cheese: The melty, gooey finish with a mild sharpness that’s classic Philly.
- Penne or rigatoni pasta: Firm, tube-shaped pasta that holds onto the sauce beautifully.
- Beef broth: Boosts flavor depth and keeps the sauce silky and moist.
- Salt and pepper: Simple but crucial for seasoning and highlighting all flavors.
- Olive oil: For sautéing vegetables to tender perfection without overpowering them.
How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water and cooking your pasta until it is just al dente—meaning it still has a little bite—so it doesn’t get mushy when coated with the creamy sauce later on. Drain it and set it aside while you prepare the rest of the dish. This step sets the foundation for that perfect texture you want.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Next, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the diced green bell pepper, onion, and minced garlic. Let them soften and release their fragrant aroma, which takes about 4 to 5 minutes. These veggies add a sweet and slightly crisp contrast to the rich meat, so don’t rush this step!
Step 3: Cook the Meat
Once your veggies are tender, add the ground beef or steak strips directly to the skillet. Cook until the meat has nicely browned and is fully cooked through, breaking it apart as you go to ensure even cooking. Season well with salt and pepper to bring out that full Philly cheesesteak flavor. This beef component is the hearty, savory star of the dish.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Lower the heat slightly and stir in the softened cream cheese and beef broth. Keep stirring until the cream cheese melts completely and forms a smooth, creamy sauce that wraps around the meat and veggies. This luscious sauce is what transforms simple ingredients into a comforting, indulgent meal.
Step 5: Top with Cheese and Broil
Mix in the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together so each piece of pasta is coated with that dreamy sauce. Then, sprinkle shredded provolone cheese evenly on top. Place the skillet under the broiler for 3 to 5 minutes, watching closely until the cheese bubbles up and browns to a gorgeous golden finish that adds texture and visual appeal.
Step 6: Serve
Finally, pull it out of the oven and dig in while it’s hot and cheesy. This Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Recipe is best enjoyed fresh off the broiler, allowing you to experience that perfect combo of creamy sauce, tender pasta, and melted cheese in every single forkful.
How to Serve Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
For a little fresh color and added zing, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley, green onions, or even a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to give the dish a subtle kick. These garnishes brighten the plate and add a contrasting fresh note that balances the rich flavors.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with simple sides like a crisp garden salad or a handful of roasted veggies to add crunch and freshness. Garlic bread or a warm baguette makes a wonderful companion for mopping up extra cheesy sauce, turning the meal into a full, satisfying experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to wow your guests? Serve the pasta in individual oven-safe ramekins or mini cast iron skillets and broil them separately for personalized cheesy crusts. Alternatively, layering the pasta in a casserole dish with extra provolone on top creates an inviting baked version perfect for gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Recipe in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making for a tasty next-day meal.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, freeze the pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Keep in mind the cheese texture may change a bit after freezing, so it’s best to enjoy fresh whenever possible.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the pasta on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Adding a splash of beef broth or water helps loosen the sauce and keeps it creamy after reheating. Avoid microwaving if possible for the best texture.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cheese in this Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Recipe?
Absolutely! While provolone is traditional, you can experiment with mozzarella, cheddar, or even a sharp American cheese to tweak the flavor to your liking. Just make sure it melts well for that perfect cheesy top.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the beef with hearty mushrooms or plant-based meat substitutes. Sauté them with the peppers and onions, then follow the rest of the recipe for a delicious meatless twist.
What pasta works best for this recipe?
Penne and rigatoni are ideal because their ridges and tube shapes trap the creamy sauce beautifully. However, feel free to use other short pastas like rotini or shells if you prefer.
Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
You can make the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for a day or two. Just reheat gently before mixing with freshly cooked pasta for the best taste and texture.
How spicy is this dish?
This Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Recipe is mild by default, but you can easily add red pepper flakes or hot sauce during cooking or as a topping to give it as much heat as you want.
Final Thoughts
This Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Recipe is a celebration of comfort food with a fresh, creative spin that makes every bite noteworthy. Whether you’re craving something new for dinner or aiming to impress loved ones, this dish hits all the right notes with its creamy sauce, tender meat, and melty cheese. Give it a try—you might just find your next go-to recipe to cherish.
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 blends tender ground beef or steak strips with sautéed green bell peppers, onions, and a creamy cheese sauce made from cream cheese and provolone. Combined with perfectly cooked pasta and finished under the broiler for a golden bubbly cheese topping, this comforting 30-minute dish offers all the savory flavors of a Philly cheesesteak in a hearty pasta form.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef or steak strips
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Dairy and Cheese
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded provolone cheese
Pantry
- 12 oz pasta (penne or rigatoni recommended)
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced green bell pepper, onion, and minced garlic. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Cook the Meat: Add the ground beef or steak strips to the skillet. Cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking up the beef as needed. Season with salt and pepper.
- Combine Ingredients: Stir in softened cream cheese and beef broth into the skillet. Cook, stirring constantly, until the cream cheese is melted and the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
- Top with Cheese and Broil: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat with the sauce. Sprinkle shredded provolone cheese on top. Broil in the oven for 3-5 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve hot. Enjoy immediately!
Notes
- For best results, use penne or rigatoni pasta as their tube shape holds the creamy sauce well.
- You can substitute provolone cheese with mozzarella or cheddar if preferred.
- Make sure cream cheese is softened to melt smoothly into the sauce.
- Broil carefully and watch to prevent the cheese from burning.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and gently reheated on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water.
