When the evening rush starts closing in and my family’s rumbling stomachs remind me that it’s time for dinner, this Philly Cheesesteak Pasta comes to my rescue. Imagine the savory aroma of tender beef, sautéed onions, and zesty green bell peppers creating a delightful symphony in your kitchen. It’s like bringing together the beloved flavors of a traditional Philly cheesesteak, but in the comforting embrace of creamy pasta goodness.
I stumbled upon this delicious twist on a classic while searching for something new to shake up our weeknight meals. It not only satisfies those comfort food cravings but also highlights the joy of a homemade dinner that can be on the table in just about 30 minutes. Plus, the best part? You can customize it to suit your family’s preferences, whether you’re craving some extra heat or looking for vegetarian options. So, grab your skillet, and let’s dive into this hearty dish that’s destined to become a family favorite!
Why is Philly Cheesesteak Pasta a Dinner Favorite?
Comforting, Hearty Dish: The combination of pasta and cheesesteak ingredients brings warmth to any table.
Quick to Prepare: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this dish is perfect for busy nights.
Customizable: Choose your favorite protein, swap in veggies, or adjust the cheese for a personal touch.
Family-Approved: It has that universal appeal kids and adults crave alike—who can resist cheesy goodness?
Great Leftovers: This recipe makes for mouthwatering leftovers, ideal for a tasty lunch. Make your next weeknight meal memorable with this comforting delight!
Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Ingredients
Get ready to create a comforting dish that will quickly become a dinner staple!
For the Pasta
- Pasta (Penne or Rigatoni) – Short pasta captures every creamy bite beautifully, making your Philly Cheesesteak Pasta delightful.
For the Meat
- Ground Beef or Steak Strips – Use ground beef for quick cooking or steak strips for that authentic cheesesteak experience.
- Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning; don’t skip this for maximum flavor.
For the Vegetables
- Green Bell Peppers – Adds sweetness and a pop of color; substitute with red or yellow peppers for added sweetness.
- Onions – Vital for flavor depth; opt for yellow or sweet onions for a milder touch.
- Garlic – Fresh minced garlic enhances the dish’s aromatic goodness.
For the Sauce
- Cream Cheese – Gives the sauce its rich, creamy character; light cream cheese works too if you prefer a healthier version.
- Beef Broth – Adds depth to the sauce; vegetable or chicken broth can be used for a lighter alternative.
For the Cheese Topping
- Provolone Cheese – Melts beautifully, creating a gooey layer of cheesy perfection; mozzarella or cheddar are great substitutes too.
How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
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Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add 12 oz of penne or rigatoni. Cook until al dente, about 9-11 minutes. Drain and set aside, keeping it warm.
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Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add diced green bell pepper and onion, sautéing for 4-5 minutes until soft. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute, bringing a fragrant aroma to your kitchen.
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Cook the Meat: Add the ground beef or steak strips to the skillet. Cook until browned and cooked through—about 6-8 minutes for ground beef or 4-5 minutes for steak strips. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste.
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Create the Sauce: Mix in softened cream cheese and pour in beef broth, stirring until the mixture is smooth and creamy. If you prefer a lighter consistency, feel free to adjust the amount of broth as needed.
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Combine Pasta and Sauce: Gently toss the cooked pasta with the creamy mixture in the skillet until every piece of pasta is lovingly coated with the cheesy goodness.
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Top and Broil: Preheat your broiler. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded provolone cheese over the pasta and place under the broiler for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Keep a close eye to avoid burning!
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Serve: Allow the dish to cool slightly before serving in bowls. For a beautiful touch, optionally garnish with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese.
Optional: Add crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Philly Cheesesteak Pasta?
Bring your family meals to life with delightful pairings that will enhance your dining experience.
- Garlic Bread: Warm and buttery, this classic side is perfect for sopping up the creamy sauce. It adds a satisfying crunch that complements the pasta beautifully.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and tangy dressing create a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta. The crunchy croutons provide added texture, making every bite enjoyable.
- Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies, seasoned and roasted to perfection, brings a colorful touch to your table. Their natural sweetness pairs wonderfully with the savory flavors of the Philly Cheesesteak Pasta.
- Coleslaw: This cool, tangy dish provides a crunchy texture that contrasts delightfully with the creamy pasta. The crisp cabbage and vinaigrette brighten the meal and cleanse the palate.
- Apple Crisp: For dessert, this warm and sweet treat is a delicious way to end the meal. Its comforting flavors and cinnamon aroma complement the hearty main dish perfectly.
- Iced Tea or Lemonade: Refreshing beverages like iced tea or homemade lemonade provide a light, sweet counterbalance to the richness of the pasta, making the whole meal come together nicely.
Tips for the Best Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
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Use Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Let your cream cheese sit out for about 30 minutes before cooking. This ensures it melts smoothly into your sauce, avoiding any lumps during preparation.
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Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Aim for al dente with your penne or rigatoni. The pasta will continue to cook slightly in the creamy sauce, so stop just before it’s fully soft for the best texture.
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Layer Flavors: Always season your meat as it cooks. A little salt and pepper enhance the depth of flavor, perfectly complementing your Philly Cheesesteak Pasta.
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Watch the Broiling: When broiling, stay close and keep an eye on your dish. Cheese can go from bubbly to burnt quickly, and you want that perfect golden finish!
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Experiment with Veggies: Adapt the vegetable mix to your taste! Consider adding mushrooms or even spinach for extra nutrients and varied flavors within your Philly Cheesesteak Pasta.
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Store Smart: If you have leftovers, keep them in an airtight container, and for reheating, add a splash of broth to restore creaminess and prevent drying out.
How to Store and Freeze Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
Fridge: Store leftover Philly Cheesesteak Pasta in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Keep in mind that the texture may change slightly upon thawing.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth to revive the creamy sauce.
Airtight Packaging: Always ensure that the containers are sealed tightly to prevent freezer burn and maintain the delicious flavors of your comforting dish.
Make Ahead Options
These Philly Cheesesteak Pasta bowls are a lifesaver for busy weeknights! You can prepare the pasta and sauce components up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cook the pasta until al dente, then toss it in a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking and refrigerate. For the sauce, sauté the vegetables, cook the meat, and mix in the cream cheese and broth; let it cool before storing in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat the sauce gently on the stove over low heat and combine with the pasta. Top with provolone cheese and broil for a few minutes to achieve that perfect melted finish—just as delightful as if freshly made!
Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Variations
Feel free to put your own spin on this dish and make it uniquely yours!
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Vegetarian Delight: Swap out ground beef for mushrooms or plant-based meat, creating a hearty, meatless option.
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Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or sprinkle red pepper flakes to wake up your taste buds with a fiery twist!
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Healthier Swaps: Use ground turkey or chicken and opt for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta; it’s nourishing without sacrificing flavor.
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Cheesy Boost: For an extra cheesy experience, mix in ricotta or crumbled feta before broiling. It’ll add a delightful creaminess!
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Flavorful Broth: Try substituting beef broth with vegetable or chicken broth for a lighter, yet still savory, sauce that’s perfect for any palate.
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Creamy Variants: If you love extra creaminess, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or a touch of sour cream to the sauce for a rich finish.
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Veggie Medley: Incorporate other vegetables like spinach or zucchini for added color and nutritional value—bring your garden to the table!
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Pasta Twist: Change up the pasta type! Use bowties, fusilli, or even spiralized veggies for a fun, textural experience that keeps it exciting.
Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Recipe FAQs
What type of pasta is best for Philly Cheesesteak Pasta?
I recommend using penne or rigatoni as they hold the creamy sauce beautifully. Their ridges capture every bite, ensuring a delicious experience.
How should I store leftover Philly Cheesesteak Pasta?
Store the leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the flavors intact, make sure it’s sealed well, and reheat gently to maintain its creamy texture.
Can I freeze Philly Cheesesteak Pasta?
Absolutely! You can freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and then warm it up on the stovetop, adding a splash of beef broth if needed to revive the sauce.
What should I do if my cream cheese doesn’t melt smoothly?
If your cream cheese isn’t melting well, it might be too cold. Make sure it’s at room temperature before adding it to your skillet. Also, stir continuously while mixing it with the broth to achieve that creamy consistency.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply substitute the ground beef or steak strips with mushrooms or a plant-based meat alternative. You can also pack in more veggies like spinach or zucchini for added nutrition.
How do I adjust this recipe for dietary restrictions?
If you’re looking to lighten it up, choose ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, and use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta. For those with lactose intolerance, try using a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and a plant-based cheese for topping.
Philly Cheesesteak Pasta: Your New Family Comfort Food Classic
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 oz of penne or rigatoni and cook until al dente, about 9-11 minutes. Drain and set aside, keeping warm.
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil over medium heat. Add diced green bell pepper and onion, sautéing for 4-5 minutes until soft. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add the ground beef or steak strips to the skillet. Cook until browned and cooked through—about 6-8 minutes for ground beef or 4-5 minutes for steak strips. Season with salt and pepper.
- Mix in softened cream cheese and pour in beef broth, stirring until smooth and creamy.
- Gently toss the cooked pasta with the creamy mixture in the skillet until every piece of pasta is coated.
- Preheat your broiler. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded provolone cheese over the pasta and broil for 3-5 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Allow the dish to cool slightly before serving. Optionally garnish with freshly chopped parsley or parmesan.