If you are craving a dish that combines the hearty flavors of a classic sandwich with the comforting charm of pasta, you have to try this Philly Cheesesteak Pasta. This recipe brilliantly transforms the iconic Philly cheesesteak into a creamy, cheesy pasta dish that bursts with tender steak or ground beef, sautéed peppers and onions, and loads of melty provolone. It’s a true crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare yet feels incredibly special, perfect for dinner any night of the week when you want to impress without the fuss.

Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Philly Cheesesteak Pasta lies in its simple, fresh ingredients, each thoughtfully chosen to build the perfect balance of taste, texture, and color. From tender beef to vibrant peppers, and that luscious creamy sauce, these essentials turn into something unforgettable.

1 lb ground beef or steak strips: Choose quality meat for juicy, flavorful protein that’s the star of the dish.
1 green bell pepper, diced: Adds a crisp, slightly sweet crunch to complement the savory meat.
1 onion, diced: Brings sweetness and depth when sautéed to perfection.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the sauce with aromatic warmth that wakes up the taste buds.
8 oz cream cheese, softened: Provides the creamy backbone that turns the sauce silky smooth.
1 cup shredded provolone cheese: Melts beautifully on top for that classic, gooey cheesesteak finish.
12 oz pasta (penne or rigatoni recommended): The sturdy shapes hold sauce well and create satisfying bites.
1 cup beef broth: Adds rich, savory depth and keeps the sauce from getting too thick.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasoning to bring all flavors together.
1 tbsp olive oil: For perfectly sautéed vegetables without overpowering the dish.

How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cooking the pasta until it’s just al dente is key because it will continue to cook a bit when tossed with the sauce. Once done, drain and set it aside to wait for its cheesy, meaty upgrade.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Next, heat up the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the diced green bell pepper, onion, and garlic and sauté them for about 4 to 5 minutes until they soften and release their wonderful aromas. These vegetables build the classic Philly cheesesteak flavor foundation with their natural sweetness and crunch.

Step 3: Cook the Meat

Now it’s time for the star of the Philly Cheesesteak Pasta — the beef. Add your ground beef or steak strips to the pan with the veggies. Break apart the ground beef as it cooks or let those steak strips brown evenly. Season generously with salt and pepper, enhancing all those rich, meaty notes that make this dish so satisfying.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Once the meat is cooked through, stir in the softened cream cheese and beef broth. Keep stirring constantly over medium heat so the cream cheese melts smoothly and blends into a silky, luscious sauce. This creamy mixture clings beautifully to all the ingredients, making every bite indulgent.

Step 5: Top with Cheese and Broil

Now fold in the cooked pasta, mixing it thoroughly so every penne or rigatoni piece is coated in that dreamy, cheesy sauce. Transfer the skillet (if ovenproof) or move the mixture to a baking dish and sprinkle the shredded provolone cheese evenly on top. Pop it under the broiler for 3 to 5 minutes until the cheese is bubbling, melted, and shows golden, appetizing brown edges.

Step 6: Serve

Remove the dish carefully from the oven and serve immediately while warm and gooey. This is the moment where all those amazing Philly Cheesesteak Pasta flavors come together for a satisfyingly rich and comforting meal that your family and friends won’t stop talking about.

How to Serve Philly Cheesesteak Pasta

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or sliced green onions adds a fresh pop of color and a little brightness that cuts through the richness perfectly. A dash of crushed red pepper flakes also works wonders if you like a slight kick.

Side Dishes

Pair this dish with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette for a balanced meal. Roasted or steamed asparagus or broccoli can add texture and vibrant greens to the plate, complementing the cheesy pasta brilliantly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the Philly Cheesesteak Pasta in mini cast iron skillets or ramekins to present individual portions packed with bubbly cheese. You could also turn it into a pasta bake by layering half the mixture, adding extra cheese, then topping with more pasta and finishing under the broiler for a golden crust.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Philly Cheesesteak Pasta tastes fantastic the next day, making it an ideal leftover. Store any extras in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors mellow and meld beautifully overnight.

Freezing

If you want to keep it longer, freeze the pasta in a suitable container, but note that the texture of the pasta may soften slightly after thawing. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months for a quick homemade meal any day you want.

Reheating

Reheat the pasta gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth or water to revive the creamy sauce. Heat until warmed through and the cheese is soft again—avoid overheating to prevent the pasta from drying out.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of provolone?

Absolutely! Mozzarella or cheddar make great substitutes and will give the dish a slightly different but still delicious flavor profile. Just be sure to use cheeses that melt well.

Is ground beef or steak strips better for this recipe?

Both work wonderfully. Ground beef offers a quicker cook time and a more uniform texture, while steak strips provide that authentic Philly cheesesteak feel and a bit more bite.

Can I add other vegetables to the pasta?

Yes! Mushrooms, sliced jalapeños, or even spinach can be great additions. Just sauté them along with the onions and peppers to maintain the balance of flavors and textures.

Is this recipe spicy?

Not by default, but you can add crushed red pepper flakes or diced hot peppers if you like some heat. The basic Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is mild and creamy, perfect for all palates.

What pasta shape works best for this dish?

Penne or rigatoni are ideal because their ridges and tubes capture the creamy sauce nicely. However, you can use fusilli, cavatappi, or any pasta you love for a personal twist.

Final Thoughts

Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is one of those incredible dishes that feel like pure comfort on a plate, combining the best of two worlds: the classic Philly cheesesteak and creamy pasta. It’s straightforward to make, perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in, and guaranteed to bring smiles to your dinner table. Give it a try and watch how this cheesy, savory, and utterly delicious meal becomes a fast favorite in your recipe collection.