How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Pasta at Home

How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Pasta at Home

If you’re a fan of the iconic Philly cheesesteak sandwich, then this Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is about to become your new favorite dish. Combining the bold, savory flavors of tender beef, caramelized onions, and melty cheese with hearty pasta, this recipe is the ultimate comfort food.

What makes this recipe truly special is how easy it is to prepare while still delivering all the indulgent flavors of the classic sandwich. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something rich and satisfying, this one-pan meal will quickly become a staple in your household. Let’s dive in and create this delicious dish that’s sure to impress!

---

Prep Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 6

---

Ingredients for Philly Cheesesteak Pasta

• 12 ounces of pasta (penne or rigatoni) – Holds the creamy sauce perfectly.
• 1 pound of thinly sliced beef (ribeye or flank steak) – Mimics the classic Philly cheesesteak flavor.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – For cooking the beef to perfection.
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced – Adds sweet, caramelized flavor.
• 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced – Brings a fresh and subtle crunch.
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (optional) – For an earthy flavor boost.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Adds depth and aroma.
• 2 tablespoons butter – For a rich base to the sauce.
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour – Thickens the sauce to a creamy consistency.
• 2 cups beef broth – Enhances the beefy flavor throughout the dish.
• 1 cup heavy cream – Makes the sauce indulgently creamy.
• 2 cups shredded provolone cheese – The star ingredient for that gooey cheesesteak goodness.
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika – Adds warmth and a hint of spice.
• Salt and pepper to taste – To season and balance flavors.
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional) – For a fresh, vibrant garnish.

How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Pasta

Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water for later use.

Cook the Beef

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced beef and season with salt and pepper. Sear the beef until browned and fully cooked, about 2–3 minutes per side. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside on a plate.

Cook the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the onions, green bell peppers, and mushrooms (if using). Sauté over medium heat until softened and slightly caramelized, about 5–7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Make the Sauce

Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet and add the butter to the empty space. Once melted, sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously for 1–2 minutes to create a roux. Gradually pour in the beef broth and heavy cream, whisking to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly.

Add the Cheese

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded provolone cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese melts into a smooth, creamy sauce. Add paprika for an extra layer of flavor.

Combine Everything

Return the cooked beef to the skillet, along with the cooked pasta. Toss everything together until the pasta is fully coated in the cheesy sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Serve and Garnish

Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Enjoy this delicious, comforting dish immediately!

Pro Tips for the Perfect Philly Cheesesteak Pasta

1. Choose the Right Cut of Beef
   Opt for ribeye or flank steak for a tender, flavorful result. Make sure to slice the beef thinly against the grain to ensure it cooks quickly and stays tender.
2. Don’t Overcook the Pasta
   Cook the pasta just until al dente. This prevents it from becoming mushy when tossed with the creamy cheese sauce.
3. Prep Ingredients Ahead of Time
   Have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go, as this recipe comes together quickly. Slicing the vegetables and measuring the cheese in advance will make the process seamless.
4. Customize the Cheese
   While provolone is classic for Philly cheesesteaks, you can add a mix of mozzarella or cheddar for extra cheesiness. Just be sure to shred your own cheese for the smoothest sauce.
5. Save the Pasta Water
   Reserve a little pasta water before draining—it’s perfect for loosening up the sauce if it gets too thick when combining the pasta and beef.

Serving Suggestions for Philly Cheesesteak Pasta

This comforting and hearty dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and accompaniments:

• Garlic Bread: Serve alongside warm, buttery garlic bread to soak up the creamy cheese sauce.
• Simple Green Salad: Balance the richness of the pasta with a crisp salad of mixed greens, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette.
• Roasted Vegetables: Add some roasted broccoli, asparagus, or zucchini for a flavorful and nutritious side dish.
• Pickles or Giardiniera: These tangy and crunchy condiments add a nice contrast to the creamy pasta..

Whether you’re serving it for a casual family dinner or a cozy date night, this dish is sure to satisfy everyone at the table!

Creative Variants for Philly Cheesesteak Pasta

This versatile recipe can be adjusted to fit your preferences while staying true to its delicious core. Here are some thoughtful variations:

• Chicken Cheesesteak Pasta: Replace the beef with thinly sliced chicken breast for a lighter option while keeping the same classic flavors. For more chicken-based inspiration, check out this Thin Chicken Breast Recipe.
• Peppers-Only Philly Pasta: For a veggie-forward version, double the green bell peppers and skip the mushrooms. This keeps the dish closer to a traditional cheesesteak but lighter.
• Extra-Cheesy Philly Pasta: Increase the cheese factor by mixing in shredded mozzarella or adding a layer of provolone on top and broiling it for a bubbly, golden crust.
• White Sauce Twist: Swap out the beef broth for chicken broth and add extra heavy cream for a lighter-colored, creamier sauce that still complements the beef and vegetables.
• Vegetarian Philly Cheesesteak Pasta: Skip the beef and load up on mushrooms, bell peppers, and onions. Serve alongside something light, like this Din Tai Fung Cucumber Salad for a well-rounded meal.

These thoughtful variations keep the heart of the recipe intact while offering unique ways to enjoy this comforting dish!

FAQs About Philly Cheesesteak Pasta

1. What is the secret ingredient in Philly cheesesteak?

The secret ingredient in a traditional Philly cheesesteak is the cheese! Classic options include Cheez Whiz, provolone, or American cheese, which melt perfectly and give the dish its iconic creamy, cheesy flavor.

2. What is traditionally served with Philly cheesesteak?

Philly cheesesteaks are often served with a side of fries, onion rings, or chips. Some also enjoy a pickle spear or a cold soda to balance the richness of the sandwich.

3. What sauce do you put on Philly cheesesteak?

Philly cheesesteaks don’t traditionally include sauce, but modern versions often add mayo, ketchup, or hot sauce. For pasta, a creamy cheese sauce is a delicious adaptation that mirrors the sandwich’s cheesiness.

4. What’s the difference between a cheesesteak and a Philly?

The term “Philly” cheesesteak refers to the original sandwich from Philadelphia, known for its thinly sliced beef, cheese, and soft hoagie roll. A “cheesesteak” could be a variation found outside Philadelphia, sometimes with different ingredients or preparation methods.

Conclusion: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Favorite

In conclusion, this Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is a hearty and flavorful dish that transforms a beloved sandwich into a creamy, comforting meal. With tender beef, sautéed vegetables, and a rich cheese sauce, it delivers all the iconic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak in a family-friendly pasta dish.

Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, this recipe is easy to make and customizable to suit your preferences. Whether you stick to the classic version or try one of the delicious variants, this pasta is guaranteed to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Give it a try, and enjoy a bowl of cheesy, savory goodness today!