Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Recipe

If you have ever dreamed of combining a Philly classic sandwich with the comforting goodness of pasta, then you are about to fall in love with this Philly Cheesesteak Pasta. This dish takes the iconic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak—the savory ground beef, tender sautéed veggies, and melty provolone and mozzarella—and blends them into a creamy, cheesy pasta bake that satisfies every craving. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner upgrade that’s both hearty and surprisingly simple to pull together. Trust me, once you try Philly Cheesesteak Pasta, it will have a prized spot on your recipe rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Philly Cheesesteak Pasta lies in its straightforward ingredients, each playing a vital part in delivering that recognizable flavor and perfect texture. From the al dente penne pasta that carries the sauce beautifully, to the mix of fresh vegetables that add color and crunch, every item is essential to the final dish.

• 8 oz penne pasta: Holds the sauce well with just the right bite when cooked al dente.
• 1¼ lbs ground beef: The meaty base that brings bold flavor and heartiness.
• 10 oz white button mushrooms (sliced): Adds earthiness and moisture for a well-rounded taste.
• 1 medium onion (chopped): Provides sweetness and depth when softened.
• 1 green bell pepper (chopped): Gives a slight crunch and fresh, peppery flavor.
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed French onion soup: Delivers that classic savory richness that ties everything together.
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce: Enhances umami notes and gives complexity.
• ½ cup cold water: Needed to dissolve the cornstarch and create a luscious sauce.
• 1 tbsp cornstarch: Thickens the sauce to the perfect consistency.
• 2 cups shredded provolone and mozzarella cheese: Melts into a gooey, golden topping that completes the dish.
• Kosher salt (to taste): Balances and brightens all the flavors.
• Freshly ground black pepper (to taste): Adds a gentle kick and seasoning depth.

How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Pasta

Step 1: Cook the pasta

Start by heating a large pot of salted water to boiling and cook the penne pasta until it is perfectly al dente—cooked through but still with a slight bite. This texture is crucial as it will hold up beautifully under the sauce and baking process, giving you that perfect mouthfeel.

Step 2: Brown the ground beef and cook the veggies

In a large ovenproof skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. About one-third through cooking, introduce the sliced mushrooms, chopped onion, and green bell pepper. This step not only flavors the meat but softens the vegetables just enough to meld into the sauce later, creating a harmonious blend of textures and flavors typical of Philly cheesesteak.

Step 3: Add the sauce ingredients

Lower the heat to medium-low and stir in the condensed French onion soup and Worcestershire sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the cold water and cornstarch to make a slurry, then stir this into your skillet mixture. Allow everything to simmer and thicken for about 5 minutes. This rich, savory sauce is the heart of the dish, infusing each bite with that signature Philly cheesesteak flavor profile.

Step 4: Combine pasta and cheese, bake to perfection

Fold the cooked penne into the skillet, tossing gently to coat each piece evenly with the sauce and veggies. Sprinkle the shredded provolone and mozzarella cheese generously over the top. Transfer the ovenproof skillet right into your preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes, or until the cheese is gloriously melted and beginning to brown. This final step transforms the dish into a bubbling, cheesy delight you won’t be able to resist.

How to Serve Philly Cheesesteak Pasta

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or basil make a lovely, vibrant topping that brightens the rich, cheesy flavors of the Philly Cheesesteak Pasta. Sprinkle a little crushed red pepper flakes if you’d like to add a gentle heat that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce.

Side Dishes

Serve this pasta with a crisp green salad dressed lightly in vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or toasted baguette slices also pair wonderfully, offering a satisfying crunch and another layer of comforting carbs.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, spoon portions of Philly Cheesesteak Pasta into individual ramekins and bake until bubbly for stylish single servings. You can also experiment with topping it with caramelized onions or even sprinkle a bit of grated Parmesan for an extra cheesy crust.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover Philly Cheesesteak Pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it a fantastic option for next-day meals or quick lunches.

Freezing

You can freeze leftovers to enjoy later. Use a freezer-safe container, and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. This way, you won’t miss out on the delicious Philly Cheesesteak Pasta even on busy days.

Reheating

Reheat gently in the microwave or in a covered skillet on the stove over low heat to preserve moisture and prevent the pasta from drying out. Adding a splash of water or broth can help revive the creamy sauce.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for Philly Cheesesteak Pasta?

Absolutely! While penne is great for holding the sauce, you can also try rigatoni, fusilli, or even elbow macaroni. Just make sure the pasta shape can catch the sauce well.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, swap the ground beef for a plant-based meat substitute or extra mushrooms and add some diced tofu for protein. The key flavors come from the sauce and cheese, so it will still be delicious!

Can I make Philly Cheesesteak Pasta without an ovenproof skillet?

If you don’t have one, just transfer the mixture to a lightly greased baking dish before adding the cheese and baking. It won’t affect the taste, just the convenience.

What type of cheese works best for this recipe?

The combination of provolone and mozzarella gives that perfect balance of melty stretch and flavor that mimics the classic Philly cheesesteak. You can adjust the ratio or mix in some cheddar for a sharper taste.

How long does it take to prepare Philly Cheesesteak Pasta from start to finish?

From boiling the pasta to pulling the baked dish from the oven, it usually takes about 45 minutes, making it a great option for an easy but impressive dinner.

Final Thoughts

This Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is one of those rare dishes that hits all the right notes: comforting, flavorful, and easy to prepare. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or entertaining friends, it’s destined to be a crowd-pleaser. Give this recipe a try and watch your simple weeknight dinner turn into a celebration of classic Philly flavors with a delicious pasta twist.

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