This Philly cheesesteak pasta is one of those quick, comforting dinners we love to make as a team on a busy night. Turning the flavors of a classic cheesesteak into a creamy, cheesy pasta feels like the best of both worlds, which for us is exactly what real food for real life is all about.
This Philly Cheesesteak Pasta brings all the flavor of the beloved sandwich into a creamy, comforting pasta dish. Savory ground beef or steak strips, sweet sauteed peppers and onions, and a rich cream cheese sauce are tossed with pasta and topped with gooey, broiled provolone. Hearty, cheesy, and ready in about 30 minutes, this Philly cheesesteak pasta is the ultimate weeknight comfort food.
What makes this Philly cheesesteak pasta so good is the creamy cheese sauce and bubbly broiled provolone, bringing all the flavor of the classic sandwich into a hearty, comforting pasta.
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Watch how this philly cheesesteak pasta comes together, step by step.
Why You Will Love This Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
- All the cheesesteak flavor. This Philly cheesesteak pasta tastes just like the classic sandwich.
- Creamy and cheesy. A rich cream cheese sauce and gooey provolone in every bite.
- Quick and easy. A comforting dinner ready in about 30 minutes.
- Family friendly. A crowd pleasing meal that even picky eaters love.
- One skillet sauce. The creamy sauce comes together right in the pan.
What Makes This Philly Cheesesteak Pasta So Good
This dish captures everything you love about a Philly cheesesteak, savory beef, sweet peppers and onions, and gooey melted cheese, in an easy, family friendly pasta form.
A creamy cheese sauce ties it all together. Softened cream cheese melted into beef broth coats the pasta in a rich, smooth sauce that clings to every bite.
A final layer of provolone broiled on top is the finishing touch. It melts into bubbly, golden brown perfection, just like the gooey cheese on a classic cheesesteak.
The signature melty topping here is provolone, a mild, smooth cheese that broils into bubbly, golden perfection over the pasta.
Optional Pro Tip: The Creamiest Cheese Sauce
Make sure the cream cheese is softened before it goes in the pan. Softened cream cheese melts quickly and smoothly into the beef broth, giving you a silky sauce without lumps.
Reserve a little pasta water before draining. If the sauce gets too thick after adding the pasta, a splash of starchy pasta water loosens it back into a smooth, glossy coating.
Tips for the Best Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
- Soften the cream cheese. It melts smoother into the sauce.
- Cook pasta al dente. It finishes perfectly under the broiler.
- Drain the beef. Remove excess grease for a cleaner sauce.
- Stir constantly. Keep stirring so the cheese sauce stays smooth.
- Watch the broiler. Cheese can go from golden to burnt fast.
- Reserve pasta water. Use it to thin the sauce if needed.
- Use a broiler safe skillet. So you can finish it in the oven.
- Season to taste. Adjust salt and pepper at the end.
Variations and Add Ins
This Philly cheesesteak pasta is easy to customize.
- Use steak. Thinly sliced steak strips make it extra authentic.
- Add mushrooms. Sauteed mushrooms add savory depth.
- Switch the cheese. Provolone, mozzarella, or white American all work.
- Add more veggies. Try red bell pepper or extra onion.
- Make it spicy. Add red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeno.
- Use a different pasta. Shells or rotini also hold the sauce well.
- Add Worcestershire. A splash deepens the savory flavor.
- Top with parsley. Fresh parsley adds color and freshness.
How to Store and Reheat
Store leftover Philly cheesesteak pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. It makes great leftovers for lunch or dinner.
Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth or milk to loosen the sauce. Stir as it warms so the cheese sauce stays smooth and creamy.
Serving Suggestions for Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
This Philly cheesesteak pasta is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but a few simple sides make it complete. Garlic bread is perfect for scooping up the creamy, cheesy sauce.
A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta beautifully. Roasted or steamed vegetables also make a great, fresh side.
For a true cheesesteak inspired meal, serve it with a side of pickled hot peppers or a simple slaw. These add a bright, tangy contrast to the rich, cheesy pasta.
- With garlic bread. Perfect for the creamy sauce.
- With a green salad. A fresh, light contrast.
- With roasted veggies. A simple, healthy side.
- With pickled peppers. A bright, tangy bite.
If you love a creamy, comforting pasta, our Cajun chicken pasta is another easy, crowd pleasing favorite to try.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use steak instead of ground beef?
Yes. Thinly sliced steak strips, like sirloin or ribeye, make it extra authentic. Ground beef is the quick, budget friendly option, but both work beautifully.
What pasta is best?
Penne or rigatoni are recommended because their shape holds the creamy sauce well. Shells, rotini, or elbow pasta are also great choices.
What cheese should I use?
Provolone is classic and melts smoothly. White American, mozzarella, or a blend also work well. Use what you love for that gooey, melty topping.
How do I keep the sauce smooth?
Use softened cream cheese, stir constantly as it melts into the broth, and keep the heat moderate. A splash of reserved pasta water helps loosen it if needed.
Do I have to broil it?
Broiling melts the provolone into a bubbly, golden topping, but it is optional. You can also cover the skillet for a few minutes to melt the cheese on the stove.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes. You can make it a day ahead and reheat it gently with a splash of broth or milk. It also stores well as leftovers for up to four days.
Can I make it in one pan?
Yes. You can cook the pasta separately or use a one pot method, simmering the pasta right in the broth. This version uses a skillet for the sauce and a broiler finish.
How do I make it spicier?
Add red pepper flakes, sliced jalapeno, or a dash of hot sauce to the beef. A spicy pepper jack cheese also adds a little heat.
What can I serve with it?
Garlic bread, a green salad, roasted vegetables, or pickled peppers all pair well. These sides round out the rich, cheesy pasta.
Can I add Worcestershire sauce?
Yes. A splash of Worcestershire sauce deepens the savory, beefy flavor and gives the dish a little of that classic cheesesteak zip.
Comfort Food, Cheesesteak Style
This Philly cheesesteak pasta brings together everything you love about the classic sandwich, savory beef, sweet peppers and onions, and gooey melted cheese, in a creamy, comforting pasta dish.
Quick enough for a busy weeknight and satisfying enough to please the whole family, it is sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation. Serve it with garlic bread and enjoy.
Craving another easy, flavorful dinner? Our lemon chicken piccata is a bright, savory favorite to try next.
Results vary by ingredients, equipment, and cooking conditions. Always taste and adjust seasoning as you go.
Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add the pasta, and cook until al dente according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat, add the diced green bell pepper, onion, and minced garlic, and saute for 4 to 5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add the ground beef or steak strips and cook, breaking up the beef as needed, until fully browned and cooked through, then season with salt and pepper.
- Stir the softened cream cheese and beef broth into the skillet, cooking and stirring constantly until the cream cheese is fully melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add the cooked pasta and toss until fully coated, then sprinkle the shredded provolone evenly on top and broil in the oven for 3 to 5 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and serve hot.
Nutrition
Notes
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