Philly Cheesesteak Pasta transforms the classic Philadelphia cheesesteak into a comforting pasta dish that’s rich, cheesy, and loaded with savory flavor. With tender beef, sautéed onions, green bell peppers, and creamy melted cheese, this recipe reimagines the iconic sandwich in a family-friendly pasta form that’s perfect for a satisfying dinner.
Unlike the original cheesesteak on a hoagie roll, this version uses pasta as the base, creating a hearty meal that absorbs the flavors of the sauce and toppings beautifully. Ideal for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, this pasta brings the familiar taste of Philly cheesesteak in a whole new way.
Origins of the Philly Cheesesteak and its Pasta Transformation
The original Philly cheesesteak, a favorite American sandwich created in Philadelphia in the early 20th century, traditionally features thinly sliced steak, onions, and melted cheese. This Philly Cheesesteak Pasta captures the heart of the sandwich but with a creamy pasta twist, blending the best of both worlds into a crowd-pleasing, cozy dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
With a creamy, cheesy sauce that pairs perfectly with the savory beef and sautéed veggies, this dish is pure comfort. Quick to make and easy to customize, it’s ideal for weeknight meals and adaptable to suit different tastes and preferences, from vegetarian options to cheese swaps.
Ingredient Guide
- Meat Options: Choose ground beef for a quick, finely textured sauce or steak strips like ribeye or sirloin for an authentic cheesesteak experience with juicy, tender bites. Season with salt, pepper, and a dash of garlic powder or Worcestershire sauce for classic cheesesteak flavor.
- Vegetables: Green bell peppers and onions bring sweetness and crunch. For added flavor, try mushrooms or red bell peppers for a colorful twist. Sauté until just tender to blend smoothly into the sauce.
- Cheeses: Provolone provides a mild tanginess, while cream cheese makes the sauce smooth and creamy. For variations, try mozzarella for a milder taste or cheddar for more sharpness.
- Pasta Choices: Penne or rigatoni are ideal, as their ridges hold the creamy sauce. Cook al dente for the best texture.
- Beef Broth: Enhances the depth of flavor, creating a rich, savory base for the sauce. Vegetable or chicken broth works as a lighter substitute.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1️⃣ Cook the Pasta
- Start by boiling salted water and add 12 oz of pasta, like penne or rigatoni. Stir immediately and cook until al dente, then drain.
2️⃣ Sauté the Vegetables
- Dice a green bell pepper and onion. Sauté in olive oil over medium heat for 4–5 minutes until fragrant and tender. Add garlic for the final minute to avoid burning.
3️⃣ Cook the Meat
- For ground beef, crumble and brown in the skillet until fully cooked. For steak strips, cook in a single layer to brown, seasoning with salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce.ç
4️⃣ Make the Creamy Sauce
- Add 8 oz of softened cream cheese to the skillet, stirring until melted. Gradually add 1 cup of beef broth, stirring until the sauce is smooth. Adjust thickness with more broth if needed.
Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
A quick and hearty dish that brings together savory beef, sautéed veggies, and a velvety cheese sauce, all topped with melted provolone for the ultimate comfort meal. Ready in no time, this beef pasta recipe is sure to be a hit for any weeknight dinner!
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef or steak strips
1 green bell pepper, diced
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded provolone cheese
12 oz pasta (penne or rigatoni recommended)
1 cup beef broth
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tbsp olive oil
Directions
- Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the bell pepper, onion, and garlic, and sauté for 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender and fragrant.
- Cook the Meat
- Add the ground beef or steak strips to the skillet. Cook, breaking up the beef as it cooks, until browned and fully cooked. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Make the Creamy Sauce
- Add the softened cream cheese and beef broth to the skillet. Stir constantly until the cream cheese melts and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Add Pasta and Broil
- Stir the cooked pasta into the skillet, ensuring it’s evenly coated in the sauce. Sprinkle the shredded provolone cheese over the top. Broil in the oven for 3-5 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
- Serve and Enjoy
- Remove from the oven and serve hot. Enjoy this creamy, cheesy Philly-inspired pasta dish!