Introduction
Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is the perfect comfort-food mashup when you want bold flavor without the fuss of sandwiches or grills. I started making this dish on nights when I craved the savory goodness of a classic Philly cheesesteak but wanted something cozy and spoonable. This recipe brings together tender beef, sautéed peppers and onions, and a rich, cheesy sauce that coats every piece of pasta beautifully. What makes it so satisfying is the balance of textures and flavors. You get juicy beef, sweet caramelized vegetables, and a creamy, indulgent sauce that feels familiar and comforting. It is the kind of meal that comes together quickly, feeds a crowd, and disappears just as fast. Whether you are cooking for family, guests, or just yourself, this Philly cheesesteak pasta delivers big flavor in an easy, reliable way.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is hearty, comforting, and incredibly easy to make. It combines all the flavors of a classic cheesesteak into a one-pan pasta dish that is perfect for busy weeknights. It is filling, family-friendly, and made with simple ingredients you can easily find.
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Philly Cheesesteak Pasta – Creamy, Hearty, and Packed with Flavor
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
Philly cheesesteak pasta is a hearty, creamy pasta dish inspired by the classic sandwich, featuring tender beef, sautéed peppers and onions, and a rich cheesy sauce.
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (penne or rotini)
- 1 pound sirloin steak or shaved beef, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add sliced beef and cook until browned; remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté bell pepper and onion until softened.
- Add garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika; cook for 30 seconds.
- Pour in beef broth and simmer for 2–3 minutes.
- Stir in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add provolone (or mozzarella) and Parmesan cheese; stir until melted and smooth.
- Return beef to the skillet along with cooked pasta.
- Toss until everything is well coated and heated through.
- Serve warm.
Notes
- Shaved steak cooks quickly and stays tender.
- Use provolone for authentic Philly flavor.
- Add mushrooms for extra richness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Pasta
Pasta acts as the base and soaks up the creamy, cheesy sauce perfectly.
Beef Steak
Thinly sliced beef provides rich, savory flavor and tender texture.
Onion
Onion adds sweetness and depth, mimicking classic cheesesteak flavor.
Bell Peppers
Bell peppers bring color, mild sweetness, and balance to the dish.
Garlic
Garlic enhances the overall savory profile of the sauce.
Butter
Butter adds richness and helps sauté the vegetables.
Olive Oil
Olive oil helps brown the beef and prevents sticking.
Beef Broth
Beef broth adds depth and enhances the meaty flavor.
Heavy Cream
Heavy cream creates a smooth, rich sauce.
Cream Cheese
Cream cheese adds extra creaminess and body to the sauce.
Cheese
Cheese melts into the sauce, delivering classic cheesesteak richness.
Salt
Salt enhances all the flavors.
Black Pepper
Black pepper adds gentle heat and balance.
Directions
Begin by cooking the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced beef, season lightly with salt and black pepper, and cook quickly until just browned. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add butter, onion, and bell peppers. Sauté until softened and lightly caramelized. Add garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.
Pour in the beef broth and allow it to simmer for a few minutes. Reduce heat and stir in heavy cream and cream cheese, whisking until smooth. Add shredded cheese and stir until melted and creamy.
Return the cooked beef and pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together until well coated in the sauce. Adjust seasoning as needed and serve hot.
Equipment needed
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results
Servings and timing
This recipe serves four people. Preparation takes about 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 25 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.
Variations and Customizations
Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is very flexible. You can use ground beef instead of sliced steak for convenience. Mushrooms make a great addition for extra depth. For a lighter version, reduce the cream and add more broth. You can also switch cheeses depending on preference. This dish pairs well with a simple salad or garlic bread.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
This dish provides protein from beef and carbohydrates from pasta, along with fats from cheese and cream. It is a filling, indulgent meal best enjoyed in moderation.
Expert Tips & Customizations
Cook Beef Quickly
Avoid overcooking to keep beef tender.
Al Dente Pasta
Slightly firm pasta holds the sauce better.
Low Heat Cheese
Melt cheese gently to prevent grainy texture.
Rest Before Serving
Let the dish sit briefly to thicken naturally.
FAQs
Can I use ground beef instead of steak?
Yes, ground beef works well and saves time.
What pasta shape is best?
Short pasta shapes hold the sauce best.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, reheat gently before serving.
Is this dish spicy?
No, it is mild unless you add spice.
Can I add mushrooms?
Yes, mushrooms are a great addition.
What cheese works best?
A melty cheese works best for creaminess.
Can I freeze Philly cheesesteak pasta?
Freezing is not recommended due to the creamy sauce.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, it is mild and comforting.
Can I make it lighter?
Use less cream and more broth.
What should I serve with this pasta?
A simple salad or bread pairs well.
Conclusion
Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that brings together tender beef, sautéed vegetables, and a rich, cheesy sauce in one satisfying meal. Easy to prepare and full of classic flavor, it is a reliable recipe perfect for busy nights or anytime you want a hearty, homemade dinner that truly delivers.
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