Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Recipe

If you have ever craved the rich, hearty flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak but are looking for something a little different and oh-so comforting, then this Philly Cheesesteak Pasta recipe is about to become your new favorite go-to. It takes the beloved elements of the iconic sandwich—succulent beef, sautéed peppers and onions, and gooey melted cheese—and transforms them into a luscious pasta dish that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for any night of the week. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with savory goodness, this Philly Cheesesteak Pasta offers a delightful twist that will have you coming back for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple, yet essential ingredients will set you up for success when making this spectacular Philly Cheesesteak Pasta. Each component plays a starring role, bringing unique flavors and textures to ensure your dish is balanced and irresistibly delicious.

• 8 oz penne pasta: The perfect shape to soak up all the creamy sauce while providing a satisfying bite.
• 1¼ lbs ground beef: This packs the savory, meaty punch reminiscent of traditional Philly cheesesteak fillings.
• 10 oz white button mushrooms (sliced) or cremini mushrooms: Adds earthiness and tender texture to complement the beef.
• 1 medium onion (chopped): For that classic sweetness and aroma that’s essential to any cheesesteak-inspired dish.
• 1 green bell pepper (chopped): Brightens the dish with a subtle crunch and fresh flavor contrast.
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed French onion soup: Acts as the rich, flavorful base that deepens the sauce’s complexity.
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce: Packs in umami and subtle tang to elevate the overall taste.
• ½ cup cold water: Used to perfectly thin the sauce for that silky texture.
• 1 tbsp cornstarch: Helps thicken the sauce so it clings deliciously to every pasta piece.
• 2 cups shredded provolone and mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully, creating ooey-gooey cheesiness that ties everything together.
• Kosher salt (to taste): Enhances all flavors without overpowering.
• Freshly ground black pepper (to taste): Adds a subtle kick and aromatic warmth.

How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cooking the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. This ensures your pasta has just the right amount of bite to hold up under the rich sauce later. Once cooked, drain and set aside, keeping it warm.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef and cook until nicely browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. This step is crucial because it develops the deep, savory flavors that resemble the iconic cheesesteak filling.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the chopped onions, green bell pepper, and sliced mushrooms to the browned beef. Sauté until the onions are translucent and the peppers and mushrooms are tender but still vibrant. This combination adds freshness and texture that balances the richness of the beef and cheese.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

Pour the condensed French onion soup and Worcestershire sauce into the skillet, stirring to combine. In a separate small bowl, whisk together cold water and cornstarch to create a slurry, then add it to the skillet. Stir constantly as the sauce thickens, turning it into that perfect creamy coating that clings lovingly to each piece of pasta.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Cheese

Reduce heat to low and stir in the cooked penne pasta along with the shredded provolone and mozzarella cheeses. Mix everything gently until the cheeses melt completely and form a luscious, cheesy layer throughout the dish. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Step 6: Final Touches

Give the Philly Cheesesteak Pasta a final stir to ensure the sauce envelops every bit of pasta and veggies, then remove from heat. Let it rest for a couple of minutes to allow the flavors to marry beautifully before serving.

How to Serve Philly Cheesesteak Pasta

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or green onions adds a lovely burst of color and freshness to the dish. If you’re feeling adventurous, a light drizzle of hot sauce or a handful of sliced jalapeños will give your Philly Cheesesteak Pasta a lively kick.

Side Dishes

Pair this hearty pasta with a crisp garden salad or roasted garlic broccoli for a nice contrast in texture and to keep the meal balanced. A crusty baguette or garlic bread is also fantastic for scooping up any extra cheesy sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the Philly Cheesesteak Pasta in warm individual bowls topped with extra shredded cheese or sautéed mushrooms. For a fun twist, bake the assembled pasta in a casserole dish with a cheese crust on top for 10 minutes and enjoy a bubbly, golden crust that elevates the presentation and flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store leftover Philly Cheesesteak Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool it completely before sealing to keep the flavors fresh and vibrant.

Freezing

This dish freezes well! Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve texture and taste.

Reheating

Reheat the pasta gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Adding a splash of water or milk while reheating helps restore the creamy consistency and keeps the cheese sauce nice and smooth.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While penne is ideal for holding the sauce, rigatoni, rotini, or even macaroni would work wonderfully in your Philly Cheesesteak Pasta.

Is ground beef the only meat option?

Not at all. You can substitute ground beef with thinly sliced ribeye or sirloin strips for a more traditional cheesesteak feel, but ground beef keeps the dish quick and easy to prepare.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the beef and add extra mushrooms, bell peppers, or even plant-based meat alternatives to keep that satisfying texture and umami flavor.

What cheeses work best if I don’t have provolone or mozzarella?

Cheddar, American, or even fontina can be delicious substitutes that melt well and complement the dish’s flavor profile wonderfully.

How spicy is this dish?

This Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is mild and family-friendly by default, but you can easily add crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce if you prefer some heat.

Final Thoughts

Cooking up this Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is like sharing a warm hug on a plate—it combines all the things we love about the classic sandwich into a comforting, cheesy pasta dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight dinner or impressing friends with a cozy twist on a favorite, this recipe promises satisfying, rich flavors with every bite. Give it a try and watch this Philly Cheesesteak Pasta become a beloved staple in your kitchen, just as it has in mine!

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