When it comes to comfort food, few dishes strike the perfect balance between hearty, cheesy, and satisfying quite like Philly Cheesesteak Pasta. Imagine all the bold, savory flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak—succulent beef, caramelized onions, bell peppers, and gooey cheese—infused into a creamy pasta dish. This one-pan wonder is a hit for weeknight dinners and family gatherings alike. In this post, we’ll break down how to make this indulgent dish in simple steps, along with tips for perfecting the flavors every time.

Why You’ll Love Philly Cheesesteak Pasta ❤️

Packed with Flavor: The combination of tender beef, creamy cheese, and aromatic veggies creates a dish bursting with flavor.
Easy and Quick: In less than 30 minutes, you can whip up a hearty meal that tastes like it took hours to prepare.
One-Pan Magic: Fewer dishes mean less cleanup! Everything comes together seamlessly in one skillet.
Customizable: Whether you prefer ground beef, steak strips, or even chicken, this recipe is easily adaptable to suit your taste buds.

Ingredients for Philly Cheesesteak Pasta 🛒

Essentials:

1 lb ground beef or steak strips: Ground beef is convenient, but steak strips elevate the dish with authentic Philly cheesesteak vibes.
1 green bell pepper, diced: Adds a sweet, fresh crunch and vibrant color.
1 onion, diced: Caramelized onions bring a subtle sweetness that balances the savory elements.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic enhances the depth of flavor in the sauce.
8 oz cream cheese, softened: The base for that luscious, creamy texture.
1 cup shredded provolone cheese: Provolone melts beautifully, delivering that signature cheesesteak flavor.

For the Pasta:

12 oz pasta (penne or rigatoni recommended): Both hold the sauce well, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor.
1 cup beef broth: Adds richness and enhances the meaty taste.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning every layer of the dish.
1 tbsp olive oil: Used to sauté the vegetables and meat.

How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Pasta

Follow these simple steps for a creamy, cheesy dish your family will rave about!

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until it’s al dente—firm to the bite but not overly soft. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the sauce.

Pro Tip: Save about ½ cup of pasta water before draining. It can help loosen the sauce later if needed.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced green bell pepper, onion, and minced garlic. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes until the veggies soften and release their aroma.

Pro Tip: For extra flavor, let the onions caramelize slightly before adding the bell peppers.

Step 3: Cook the Meat

Add the ground beef or steak strips to the skillet with the vegetables. Break up the beef with a spatula and cook until it’s browned and cooked through. If using steak strips, sear them on both sides until tender. Season the meat with a generous pinch of salt and pepper.

Optional: If your beef releases a lot of grease, drain the excess fat to prevent the sauce from becoming too oily.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

Once the meat is fully cooked, lower the heat to medium-low. Add the softened cream cheese and beef broth to the skillet. Stir constantly until the cream cheese melts into a smooth, velvety sauce. The broth helps thin the sauce and adds a savory depth.

Pro Tip: If the sauce seems too thick, stir in a splash of reserved pasta water for the perfect consistency.

Step 5: Combine and Top with Cheese

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the sauce until every piece is fully coated. Sprinkle the shredded provolone cheese evenly over the top of the dish.

For the ultimate cheesy finish, place the skillet under the broiler for 3-5 minutes. The cheese will melt into a bubbly, golden-brown topping that’s impossible to resist.

Pro Tip: Keep a close eye on the broiler! The cheese can go from golden to burnt quickly.

Tips for the Best Philly Cheesesteak Pasta 🌟

Choose the Right Pasta: Short, tubular pasta like penne or rigatoni works best as it holds the creamy sauce in every bite.
Experiment with Cheese: While provolone is classic, you can mix it up with mozzarella or even white cheddar for a slightly different flavor profile.
Add Mushrooms: For extra depth, toss in some sliced mushrooms while sautéing the vegetables.
Go Low-Carb: Swap the pasta for zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a lighter option.

Why This Recipe Works

This Philly Cheesesteak Pasta combines everything we love about the original sandwich—beef, veggies, and cheese—while giving it a creamy pasta twist. The balance of textures, from the tender meat to the soft pasta and gooey cheese, creates a truly satisfying dish. It’s quick enough for a weeknight but indulgent enough to serve at a dinner party.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! While ground beef or steak strips are traditional, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat substitutes for a vegetarian twist.

How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or beef broth to loosen the sauce and microwave or heat on the stovetop.

What sides pair well with Philly Cheesesteak Pasta?

This dish is hearty on its own, but a crisp green salad or garlic bread makes a perfect sidekick.