If you are searching for a comforting yet flavorful dinner that brings the iconic taste of Philly into a pasta dish, let me introduce you to this delightful Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Recipe. It combines tender sautéed beef and vibrant veggies with a rich, creamy cheese sauce all tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. This dish captures the soul of a Philly cheesesteak sandwich but serves it in a more cozy, fork-friendly format that’s perfect for any night of the week. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a new favorite in your kitchen rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this dish plays a starring role, providing rich flavors, creamy textures, or just the right amount of bite to bring the Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Recipe together beautifully. From the savory beef to the luscious cheese, every component is simple but absolutely essential.
- 1 lb ground beef or steak strips: Your choice of meat sets the foundation with hearty flavor and satisfying texture.
- 1 green bell pepper, diced: Adds a subtle sweetness and vibrant color for freshness and crunch.
- 1 onion, diced: Brings natural sweetness and depth, perfectly balancing the robustness of the meat.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Small but mighty, garlic infuses a wonderful aroma and savory punch.
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened: Creates a luscious, creamy base that makes the sauce irresistibly smooth.
- 1 cup shredded provolone cheese: Melts beautifully, giving the dish that signature cheesesteak flavor and gooey finish.
- 12 oz pasta (penne or rigatoni recommended): The sturdy pasta shapes hold onto every bit of sauce, making sure each bite is bursting with flavor.
- 1 cup beef broth: Adds moisture and enhances the savory richness of the sauce.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that bring everything together perfectly.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Helps sauté the vegetables to tender perfection without overpowering their natural flavors.
How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Adding salt is key here because it seasons the pasta from within as it cooks. Throw in your penne or rigatoni and cook according to the package instructions until just al dente. You want it firm enough to hold up in the sauce without becoming mushy. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside for now – it’s going to meet a flavor-packed sauce soon!
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Next, take a large skillet and heat your olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the diced green bell pepper, onion, and minced garlic. Let them cook for about 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until they soften and release their wonderful aroma. These veggies add a fresh sweetness and depth that perfectly complements the meat and cheese.
Step 3: Cook the Meat
Add your ground beef or steak strips directly to the skillet with the softened vegetables. The sizzling sound and scents here are simply mouthwatering! Cook the meat until it’s nicely browned and no longer pink, breaking it up as you go if you’re using ground beef. Season generously with salt and pepper to really enhance the savory profile that makes this dish unforgettable.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Now, the magic happens. Stir in the softened cream cheese and beef broth right into your skillet. Keep stirring constantly so the cream cheese melts smoothly into a creamy sauce while the beef broth enriches it with deep flavor. This step transforms simple ingredients into a luscious, silky cheese sauce that clings to every bite of pasta you’ll add next.
Step 5: Top with Cheese and Broil
Fold your cooked pasta into the skillet, tossing everything so each piece is perfectly coated in that creamy, cheesy sauce. Sprinkle shredded provolone cheese over the top – this is the crowning glory that brings the Philly cheesesteak essence to life. Pop the skillet under your broiler for 3 to 5 minutes until the cheese melts, bubbles, and turns delightfully golden brown. It’s the kind of bubbly finish you’ll look forward to.
Step 6: Serve
Carefully remove the skillet from the oven (use an oven mitt – it will be hot!). Scoop the pasta onto plates or serve straight from the skillet while it’s still steaming and gooey. Each mouthful is an irresistible combination of creamy cheese, savory meat, and tender pasta – a dish sure to make everyone at your table smile.
How to Serve Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Recipe with some fresh garnishes like chopped parsley or sliced green onions for a pop of color and brightness. A light sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes also adds a hint of heat that elevates the creamy richness without overpowering it. These little touches make your presentation extra inviting.
Side Dishes
This pasta pairs beautifully with simple sides that won’t compete with its bold flavors. Consider a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or roasted vegetables to add a fresh contrast. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette can also be the perfect way to soak up any leftover sauce on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Recipe in individual oven-safe ramekins topped with extra cheese and broiled in single servings. This creates a personal, restaurant-style experience. Another idea is to line a baking dish with parchment paper and bake the entire dish as a casserole, making it perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Philly Cheesesteak Pasta in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually tend to deepen overnight, making it a perfect option for next-day lunches or dinners.
Freezing
If you want to keep the Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Recipe longer, freezing is a great option. Transfer cooled pasta into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. Just remember that fresh garnishes are best added after thawing to keep their bright flavor and texture.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the pasta gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water to loosen the sauce if it has thickened. You can also microwave it covered in short bursts, stirring halfway through for even heating. Avoid overheating to maintain the creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use steak strips instead of ground beef in this Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Recipe?
Absolutely! Using steak strips is a great alternative if you want that classic Philly cheesesteak texture. Just make sure to cook them quickly over high heat to keep them tender.
What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
Penne or rigatoni are ideal because their tube shapes hold onto the creamy sauce so well. However, feel free to experiment with other shapes you love!
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can swap the beef for mushrooms or plant-based meat alternatives. The key is to keep the savory and creamy elements intact for that classic Philly cheesesteak flavor.
Is this pasta recipe spicy?
The basic recipe is mild, but you can easily add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you want to give it a little kick.
How long does the Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Recipe take to prepare?
This dish comes together in about 30 minutes, making it a fantastic weeknight meal when you want something hearty yet quick to prepare.
Final Thoughts
You really can’t go wrong with this Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Recipe – it’s the perfect blend of rich, creamy, and savory all in one comforting bowl. Whether you’re making it for family, friends, or just treating yourself, it’s sure to satisfy those cheesesteak cravings in a whole new way. Give it a try soon and watch everyone dive in happily for seconds!
Print
Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Pasta Entree
- Method: Broiling
- Cuisine: American
Description
Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is a creamy, savory dish that combines the classic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak sandwich with tender pasta. Ground beef or steak strips are cooked with sautéed bell peppers, onions, and garlic, then blended into a rich cream cheese and beef broth sauce. Tossed with al dente pasta and topped with melted provolone cheese, this hearty meal comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
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
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
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 a lower fat version, you can use ground turkey instead of beef and reduced-fat cream cheese.
- Be sure to watch the cheese closely under the broiler to prevent burning.
- Penne or rigatoni are recommended pasta shapes for holding onto the creamy sauce effectively.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
