Philly Cheesesteak Pasta

Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is the perfect fusion of two beloved comfort foods: the iconic Philadelphia cheesesteak sandwich and creamy, hearty pasta. Imagine tender strips of steak, caramelized onions, and sautéed bell peppers tossed with perfectly cooked pasta in a luscious, cheesy sauce. It’s a rich, indulgent dish that’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough to serve to guests.

Inspired by the flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak, this recipe combines the savory satisfaction of thinly sliced beef, the sweetness of sautéed vegetables, and the creaminess of melted cheese. However, it adds a fun twist by incorporating pasta, making it a one-pot meal that’s hearty, filling, and full of flavor. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the original sandwich or just looking for a new take on pasta night, this Philly Cheesesteak Pasta recipe is guaranteed to be a hit with your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons to love Philly Cheesesteak Pasta! First, it takes all the delicious flavors of a Philly cheesesteak and transforms them into a hearty, crowd-pleasing pasta dish. It’s packed with tender steak, vibrant veggies, and a cheesy sauce that coats every bite of pasta, creating a comforting and satisfying meal.

This recipe is also versatile. You can customize the ingredients to suit your taste—whether that means adding more veggies, dialing up the spice, or switching out the steak for chicken or mushrooms. Plus, it’s a one-pan dish, which means fewer dishes to clean and more time to relax and enjoy your meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings, this dish is guaranteed to become a family favorite.

Not only is this dish easy to make, but it also delivers bold flavors and textures that will make it feel like a restaurant-quality meal. You’ll love how quickly it comes together and how many people will ask for seconds (and the recipe, too!).

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 25 minutes
• Total time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4–6 servings
• Serving size: 1 generous bowl of pasta

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 520
• Carbohydrates: 46g
• Protein: 34g
• Fat: 20g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 5g

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

• 12 ounces penne pasta (or any short pasta, such as rigatoni or rotini)
• 1 tablespoon salt (for boiling water)

For the Steak and Vegetables:

• 1 pound ribeye steak, thinly sliced (or sirloin for a leaner option)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

For the Cheese Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk (or half-and-half for a richer sauce)
• 1 cup shredded provolone cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for added flavor)
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Garnishes:

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Crushed red pepper flakes for spice
• Shaved Parmesan

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Fill a large pot with water, add a tablespoon of salt, and bring it to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Steak

1. While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the thinly sliced steak in batches, cooking for 1–2 minutes per side until browned. Remove the steak from the skillet and set it aside. (Don’t overcrowd the pan to ensure the steak sears properly.)

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

1. In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and bell peppers. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened and slightly caramelized.
2. Add the minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Remove the vegetables from the skillet and set aside with the steak.

Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce

1. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and melt 2 tablespoons of butter.
2. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously for 1–2 minutes to create a roux.
3. Gradually pour in the milk while whisking, ensuring no lumps form. Cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens slightly.
4. Lower the heat and add the shredded provolone, mozzarella, and Parmesan (if using). Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper.

Step 5: Combine Everything

1. Return the cooked pasta, steak, and vegetables to the skillet with the cheese sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated and the steak and vegetables are well-distributed.
2. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

1. Divide the pasta among bowls or plates. Garnish with fresh parsley, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes (if desired), and additional Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Ingredient Background

Ribeye Steak

Ribeye is the preferred cut for Philly cheesesteaks because of its tenderness and rich flavor. Thinly slicing the steak ensures it cooks quickly and evenly. If ribeye is unavailable, sirloin or skirt steak makes excellent substitutes.

Provolone Cheese

Provolone is the classic cheese for Philly cheesesteaks, offering a mild, creamy, and slightly tangy flavor. Pairing it with mozzarella and Parmesan creates a smooth, rich sauce with depth.

Bell Peppers and Onions

These vegetables are a signature part of a Philly cheesesteak. When sautéed, they add sweetness and a slight crunch, balancing the richness of the steak and cheese.

Pasta

Short pasta like penne, rigatoni, or rotini works best for this recipe because the tubes or ridges help capture the cheesy sauce and other ingredients, ensuring every bite is flavorful.

Technique Tips

1. Slice Steak Thinly: For the most tender results, slice the steak as thin as possible. Freezing the steak for 15–20 minutes before slicing makes this easier.
2. Cook in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the pan when searing the steak. Cooking in batches ensures proper browning.
3. Make a Smooth Sauce: Whisk the milk into the roux gradually to prevent lumps. Stir constantly to create a velvety cheese sauce.
4. Reserve Pasta Water: The starchy pasta water is perfect for loosening the sauce if it becomes too thick.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Baked Philly Cheesesteak Pasta: Transfer the pasta mixture to a casserole dish, top with extra shredded cheese, and bake at 375°F for 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
• Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Skillet: Serve directly from the skillet for a rustic, family-style presentation.
• Pasta Bowls: Serve the pasta in individual bowls, garnished with extra parsley and Parmesan for an elegant touch.
• Stuffed Bell Peppers: Use the Philly Cheesesteak Pasta as a filling for hollowed-out bell peppers and bake until tender.

Additional Tips for Success

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook the pasta until just al dente, as it will continue to soften when mixed with the sauce.
• Customize the Veggies: Add mushrooms, spinach, or even roasted tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrients.
• Use High-Quality Cheese: Freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly than pre-packaged shredded cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents.
• Make it Spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.

Recipe Variations

• Chicken Cheesesteak Pasta: Swap the steak for thinly sliced chicken breast or thighs.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace the steak with sautéed mushrooms or a meat substitute like seitan or tofu.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour blend for the roux.
• Low-Carb Cheesesteak Skillet: Swap the pasta for zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if the sauce has thickened.
• Freezing: While pasta dishes can be frozen, the cheese sauce may separate slightly upon thawing. To freeze, transfer the cooled pasta to a freezer-safe container and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Lighten the Sauce: Use low-fat milk and reduce the amount of cheese for a lighter sauce.
• Add More Veggies: Increase the vegetable-to-pasta ratio by adding mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli.
• Use Whole-Grain Pasta: Whole-grain or chickpea pasta adds fiber and nutrients without compromising flavor.
• Reduce Sodium: Use low-sodium Worcestershire sauce and cheeses to reduce salt content.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Family Dinners: Serve with a side of garlic bread and a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
• Game Day Parties: Prepare Philly Cheesesteak Pasta in a large skillet or casserole dish for easy, crowd-friendly serving.
• Potlucks: Double the recipe and serve in a slow cooker to keep the pasta warm throughout the event.

Special Equipment

• Large Skillet: A wide skillet allows enough room for sautéing the steak and vegetables without overcrowding.
• Whisk: Essential for creating a smooth cheese sauce.
• Tongs: Perfect for tossing the pasta and steak mixture.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely! Rigatoni, ziti, or rotini work just as well.
2. What’s the best substitute for provolone cheese? Mozzarella or white American cheese are great alternatives.
3. Can I use pre-cooked steak? Yes, but add it at the end to avoid overcooking.
4. Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, prepare the dish and refrigerate it. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven.
5. How can I make it spicier? Add cayenne pepper, crushed red pepper flakes, or a splash of hot sauce.
6. What pairs well with this dish? Garlic bread, a simple green salad, or roasted vegetables make excellent sides.
7. Can I use frozen bell peppers? Yes, just thaw and pat them dry before sautéing.
8. How do I prevent the cheese sauce from breaking? Use low heat when melting the cheese and avoid boiling the sauce.

Conclusion

Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is the ultimate comfort food mashup, combining the rich, savory flavors of a classic cheesesteak with the creamy goodness of pasta. It’s a quick, easy, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to game day gatherings. With tender steak, flavorful veggies, and a luscious cheese sauce, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table. Try it today, and bring the iconic flavors of Philly to your kitchen in a whole new way!

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