If you love the hearty flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak but want a comforting twist, this Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Recipe is going to become your new favorite meal. It takes the juicy, savory goodness of ground beef sautéed with peppers and onions, then folds in velvety cream cheese and melted provolone and mozzarella over perfectly cooked pasta. The result is a creamy, cheesy dish that delivers everything you crave from a Philly cheesesteak, served up in a warm, satisfying bowl of pasta that is simply irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple but absolutely vital for nailing the rich taste, hearty texture, and vibrant color that makes this dish such a star. Each one plays a role in building layers of flavor that come together beautifully in this Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Recipe.
- 1 pound ground beef: The base protein that brings that authentic Philly cheesesteak heartiness.
- 8 ounces uncooked penne or rigatoni pasta: These pasta shapes hold onto the creamy sauce perfectly for every bite.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the vegetables with a mild, fruity note.
- 1 green bell pepper (diced): Adds a fresh crunch and a pop of color.
- 1 small yellow onion (diced): Provides sweetness and depth when caramelized.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Lifts the flavor profile with aromatic warmth.
- 1 cup beef broth: Builds the sauce’s rich, meaty base.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: A secret ingredient that adds umami and complexity.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors beautifully.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Gives a gentle spice to keep things interesting.
- 4 ounces cream cheese (softened): Creates the luscious, creamy sauce that clings to the pasta.
- 1 cup shredded provolone cheese: Melts smoothly with a mild, tangy bite.
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Adds that gooey, stretchy texture that makes every forkful satisfying.
How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling your pasta until it’s just al dente. This is crucial because you want it to have that perfect bite to hold up against the creamy sauce without going mushy. Once cooked, drain and set it aside while you move to the next steps.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the diced green bell pepper and yellow onion, cooking until softened and fragrant, about five minutes. Adding the garlic for the last 30 seconds intensifies these flavors without burning it. This veggie base is where the iconic Philly cheesesteak flavor really starts to develop.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart as it cooks. Let it brown thoroughly to develop that rich, meaty flavor that’s so essential to this dish. After cooking, drain any excess fat so the sauce stays creamy without being greasy.
Step 4: Create the Sauce
Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, then season with salt and pepper. Bring everything to a simmer, which helps marry the flavors. Reduce the heat and stir in the softened cream cheese until it melts smoothly into a luscious sauce that coats every bite.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Cheese
Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet with your savory sauce. Toss everything together to make sure every piece of pasta is drenched in that cheesesteak goodness. Sprinkle the shredded provolone and mozzarella cheeses on top, stirring until they melt into a creamy, dreamy finish.
How to Serve Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a few red pepper flakes can elevate your Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Recipe by adding a touch of color and brightness or a gentle kick of heat. These small finishing touches make it feel even more special on the plate.
Side Dishes
This pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or garlic bread to complement its richness. The fresh crunch from salad greens helps balance out the cheesy, meaty pasta, while buttery garlic bread is perfect for sopping up any leftover sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this pasta in individual cast iron skillets or rustic bowls to keep it warm and add a cozy, inviting feel, perfect for casual dinners with friends or family. You can also sprinkle extra cheese on top and broil briefly for a bubbly, golden crust that’s utterly delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Recipe in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It’ll stay fresh for up to three days, making it an excellent option for quick lunches or easy dinners during a busy week.
Freezing
You can freeze leftovers by transferring the pasta into a freezer-safe container. Freeze in portions for about 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw in the refrigerator overnight to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat your pasta gently over low heat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth or water to help loosen the sauce and regain its creamy consistency. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and enjoy it almost as fresh as the first time.
FAQs
Can I use steak instead of ground beef in the Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Recipe?
Absolutely! Sliced steak can be substituted for ground beef if you want a more traditional Philly cheesesteak feel. Just cook it quickly over high heat to keep it tender before adding to your pasta.
Is this recipe spicy?
The base recipe is mild, but you can easily add red pepper flakes or hot sauce to give the Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Recipe a spicy kick that suits your taste.
What type of pasta works best?
Penne or rigatoni are perfect because their tubular shapes hold the creamy sauce well. However, other short pastas like fusilli or rotini also work beautifully.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, replace ground beef with sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based meat substitute, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
How long does it take to prepare this meal?
This Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Recipe comes together in around 30 minutes, making it a fantastic option for a quick, flavor-packed weeknight dinner.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something so comforting about digging into a creamy, cheesy pasta loaded with the classic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak. This Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Recipe strikes the perfect balance between savory and indulgent but is surprisingly easy to bring together. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it quickly becomes a go-to dish that’s guaranteed to please everyone at your table. Go ahead, give it a whirl and make some delicious memories!
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 is a comforting and flavorful skillet dinner that combines tender ground beef, sautéed peppers and onions, and creamy cheeses with perfectly cooked penne pasta. Inspired by the classic Philly cheesesteak sandwich, this recipe delivers all the savory goodness in a hearty pasta dish that’s quick and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Pasta
- 8 ounces uncooked penne or rigatoni pasta
Liquids and Sauces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Cheeses
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded provolone cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Prepare the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside to keep warm.
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced green bell pepper and yellow onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Cook the Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet with the vegetables. Cook until browned throughout, breaking it into small pieces with a spoon. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Add Liquids and Seasonings: Stir in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer to blend the flavors.
- Incorporate Cream Cheese: Reduce the heat, then add the softened cream cheese. Stir continuously until the cream cheese is melted and fully combined into a smooth, creamy sauce.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss thoroughly to evenly coat the pasta in the beef and cheese sauce.
- Melt the Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded provolone and mozzarella cheeses over the top. Stir the pasta mixture until the cheeses melt and create a creamy texture.
- Serve: Serve the Philly Cheesesteak Pasta hot for a comforting and delicious meal.
Notes
- For extra flavor, substitute sliced steak instead of ground beef.
- Add red pepper flakes if you prefer a spicy kick.
- Include mushrooms for additional umami depth.
