If you adore the classic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak but want a comforting, creamy twist that’s easier to eat and perfect for busy nights, this Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Recipe is about to become your new go-to. Imagine tender ground beef mingling with sweet sautéed onions and colorful bell peppers, all enveloped in a luscious, provolone-packed sauce that coats every bite of perfectly cooked pasta. It’s everything you love about that iconic sandwich, reimagined in a cozy one-pot dish that delivers a cheesy, satisfying meal with minimum fuss and maximum heartiness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is key to this Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Recipe’s success. Each one plays an important role in building layers of flavor and texture, from the savory meat to the creamy cheese that ties everything together.
- Olive oil: The perfect base to sauté veggies and brown the beef, adding subtle richness.
- Yellow onion: Adds sweetness and depth when softened just right.
- Green bell pepper: Brings a fresh, slightly grassy crunch and vibrant color.
- Red bell pepper: Offers a sweeter, fruity balance to its green counterpart.
- Garlic: Provides an aromatic kick that elevates every savory bite.
- Ground beef: The hearty protein hero that delivers authentic Philly steak flavor.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to highlight and enhance all ingredients.
- Worcestershire sauce: Adds that iconic umami tang reminiscent of classic cheesesteak sauces.
- Beef broth: Deepens the meaty flavor while cooking the pasta.
- Milk: Gives the sauce a gentle creaminess that melts the cheese beautifully.
- Penne or rotini pasta: Perfect shapes to hold sauce and textures in every twirl or bite.
- Cornstarch and water: A quick slurry that thickens the sauce just right.
- Shredded provolone cheese: Melts into a luscious, gooey blanket that’s both sharp and creamy.
- Chopped parsley (optional): A fresh herbal touch that brightens the final presentation.
How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Veggies
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Throw in your diced onion and both bell peppers, letting them soften for about 5 to 6 minutes. This step is crucial as it builds the aromatic, sweet base that will balance the richness of the beef and cheese.
Step 2: Add the Garlic and Ground Beef
Stir the minced garlic into the softened vegetables and cook it for just 30 seconds until fragrant. Next, add the ground beef, seasoning with salt and black pepper as it browns. Break it apart so it cooks evenly and develops that classic skillet-browned texture. If there’s excess fat, drain it to keep the dish from getting oily.
Step 3: Create the Flavorful Broth
Once the beef is browned, pour in the Worcestershire sauce to infuse the meat with its signature tangy punch. Then add the beef broth and milk mixture, which will simmer to gently cook the pasta and create that creamy, saucy environment every bite craves.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta in the Sauce
Bring everything to a boil before stirring in your uncooked pasta. Lower the heat to a simmer, cover the pan, and let it cook for 12 to 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. This method means the pasta absorbs all those delicious flavors as it cooks, leaving no bland noodles here!
Step 5: Thicken and Melt the Cheese
Whisk together cornstarch and water to form a slurry, then stir it into the pasta. Cook just 1 to 2 minutes more until the sauce thickens slightly, perfect for coating the pasta. Turn off the heat and fold in the shredded provolone cheese, stirring until it transforms into a silky, creamy blanket that brings all the flavors together.
How to Serve Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and a hint of freshness that cuts through the richness. You can also add a dash of crushed red pepper flakes if you like a touch of heat with your cheesy indulgence.
Side Dishes
This hearty pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp, simple green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette, which balances the meal. Garlic bread or soft pretzel rolls also make great companions, perfect for mopping up every delicious saucy bite.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the pasta in mini cast iron skillets or shallow oven-safe dishes and top with extra cheese before broiling to bubbly, golden perfection. This presentation thrills guests and adds a friendly diner vibe right to your table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pasta tends to thicken as it chills, so keeping it sealed helps maintain moisture and flavor.
Freezing
This Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Recipe freezes well if you’re planning ahead. Place portions in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture and taste.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess and prevent drying out. Stir often until warmed through and oh-so-melty again.
FAQs
Can I use sliced steak instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Using thinly sliced steak will give you a texture closer to the original Philly cheesesteak sandwich. Just cook it quickly in the pan after the veggies, and proceed with the recipe as usual.
Is provolone cheese necessary, or can I substitute it?
Provolone gives that classic cheesesteak flavor, but mozzarella or a provolone-mozzarella blend works beautifully if provolone isn’t on hand. You can even add a bit of cream cheese for extra creaminess.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Sure thing! To make a vegetarian version, swap the ground beef for hearty mushrooms or plant-based ground “meats.” Keep the rest of the ingredients the same for a flavorful, comforting meal.
How spicy is this Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Recipe?
This recipe isn’t spicy on its own but feel free to add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you like a bit of heat alongside the cheesy, savory flavors.
What type of pasta works best?
Penne or rotini are ideal because their shapes catch the sauce perfectly. However, feel free to use any short pasta shape you love or have on hand.
Final Thoughts
This Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Recipe is a cozy, flavorful crowd-pleaser that brings nostalgic sandwich vibes to your dinner table with all the convenience of a one-pot meal. Whether you’re feeding family or just craving something deliciously cheesy and satisfying, this recipe promises ease, comfort, and that irresistible Philly flair in every creamy bite. Give it a try—you’ll be so glad you did!
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Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Philly cheesesteak pasta transforms the beloved flavors of the classic sandwich into a creamy, cheesy one-pot pasta dish. Featuring tender ground beef, sautéed onions and peppers, and melted provolone cheese, this comforting and quick recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, delivering a delicious and hearty meal everyone will love.
Ingredients
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Meat & Dairy
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 ½ cups shredded provolone cheese (or a mix of provolone and mozzarella)
Liquids & Sauces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Dry Ingredients
- 8 ounces penne or rotini pasta (uncooked)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
Optional Garnish
- Chopped parsley
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell peppers, cooking for 5–6 minutes until they become soft and fragrant.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Cook Ground Beef: Add 1 pound of ground beef to the pan, seasoning it with 1 teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Incorporate Worcestershire Sauce and Liquids: Stir in 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, then pour in 2 cups beef broth and 1 cup milk. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil.
- Add Uncooked Pasta: Stir in 8 ounces of uncooked penne or rotini pasta. Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover the pan, and cook for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is tender and most liquid has been absorbed.
- Thicken Sauce: In a small bowl, combine 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water to create a slurry. Stir this into the pasta mixture and cook for 1–2 minutes more until the sauce slightly thickens.
- Finish with Cheese: Turn off the heat and add 1 ½ cups shredded provolone cheese. Stir well until the cheese melts fully and creates a creamy sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Optionally, sprinkle chopped parsley over the dish before serving for a fresh touch.
Notes
- For extra cheesiness, stir in a few ounces of cream cheese or sprinkle additional shredded cheese on top and broil briefly to achieve a bubbly, golden finish.
- For a more authentic Philly cheesesteak flavor, substitute ground beef with thinly sliced steak and cook accordingly.
