The aroma wafting from the kitchen transports me to a bustling street corner in Philadelphia, where the sight of cheesesteak sandwiches being grilled brings life to the city. Today, I’m recreating that magic in a quick family-friendly dish: cheesy Philly Cheesesteak Pasta. With savory ground beef, tender mushrooms, and colorful bell peppers, this one-pan wonder can be whipped up in just 30 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want to swap out fast food for a comforting meal that fills bellies and warms hearts. Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or just starting out, this dish is not only a guarantee for satisfied smiles, but it also offers versatility with simple ingredient swaps. What’s your favorite twist on a classic meal? Let’s dive into this delicious journey together! Why Will You Love This Recipe? Simplicity at its finest: The cooking process is straightforward and requires minimal prep time, letting you savor more family moments. Rich, Comforting Flavors: With a blend of savory ground beef, creamy cheese, and hearty vegetables, each bite is a delightful homage to the classic cheesesteak. Quick Cooking: Whip up this dish in just 30 minutes—perfect for those bustling weeknights when you need dinner on the table fast! Versatile Options: Swap out ingredients effortlessly! Whether using rotini instead of penne or adding your favorite veggies, customize it to please everyone at the table. Crowd-Pleaser: It’s family-friendly and sure to impress both kiddos and adults alike, making it a repeat favorite in your household. For other quick and delicious meals, check out my Garlic Parmesan Pasta or try the rich flavors of Shrimp Pasta Marry for a dinner that’ll win hearts! Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Ingredients • Here’s what you need to create this delicious dish: For the Pasta Penne Pasta – A classic choice; you can substitute with any shape like rotini or rigatoni for fun variations. For the Meat Sauce Ground Beef (1¼ lbs) – Adds rich, savory flavor; consider using thinly shaved steak for a more authentic texture. White Button Mushrooms (10 oz, sliced) – Infuses umami and texture; cremini mushrooms work as a tasty alternative. Onion (1 medium, chopped) – Enhances the overall flavor; yellow or red onions can provide a sweeter note. Green Bell Pepper (1, chopped) – Brings a pop of color and sweetness; swap for red or yellow peppers for a different twist. Condensed French Onion Soup (1 can, 10.5 oz) – Rich base for the sauce; make it homemade by sautéing onions with broth and seasonings. Worcestershire Sauce (1 tbsp) – Adds depth to the flavor; if you’re out, soy sauce can serve as a substitute. For Thickening the Sauce Cold Water (½ cup) – Helps blend with cornstarch for a velvety texture; no substitute needed. Cornstarch (1 tbsp) – Essential for thickening the sauce; flour works too, but adjust the quantity slightly. For the Cheesy Topping Provolone and Mozzarella Cheese (2 cups, shredded) – Creates a creamy, cheesy finish; feel free to use cheddar or a dairy-free option! For Seasoning Kosher Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Adjust to your taste, but be mindful of the saltiness of the soup and cheese. Now you’re ready to create a mouthwatering Philly Cheesesteak Pasta that will have your loved ones asking for more! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it’s hot enough to melt and brown the cheese later on. While the oven heats up, gather all your ingredients and equipment such as a large ovenproof skillet. Having everything ready will streamline the cooking process and make it more enjoyable. Step 2: Cook the Pasta Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the penne pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions until al dente, about 9-11 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside. The pasta will absorb the delicious sauces later, making your Philly Cheesesteak Pasta even more flavorful. Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef In your large ovenproof skillet, heat over medium heat and add the ground beef. Cook until it’s nicely browned, stirring occasionally, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once the beef is almost fully cooked, introduce the chopped onion, sliced mushrooms, and bell pepper to the skillet, cooking until the vegetables are tender and the beef is no longer pink, about another 5 minutes. Step 4: Add the Soup and Seasonings Lower the heat to medium-low and stir in the condensed French onion soup and Worcestershire sauce. In a small bowl, combine the cold water with cornstarch, whisking until smooth. Pour this mixture into the skillet, stirring continuously. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the meat and veggies beautifully. Step 5: Combine the Pasta Carefully fold the cooked penne pasta into the beef and vegetable mixture in the skillet. Use tongs or a spatula to mix thoroughly, ensuring that every piece of pasta is coated in the creamy sauce. This step is crucial as it brings all the flavors of your Philly Cheesesteak Pasta together in a delicious harmony. Step 6: Top with Cheese Once your pasta is well mixed, sprinkle the shredded provolone and mozzarella cheese evenly across the top of the dish. Make sure the cheese covers the entire surface, ready to melt into that gooey, comforting layer that makes cheesesteaks so irresistible. Step 7: Bake to Perfection Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, with a slightly golden brown finish. The delicious aroma will fill your kitchen, signaling that your Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is almost ready to enjoy! What to Serve with Cheesy Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Create a delightful meal that pairs perfectly with the creamy, indulgent flavors of your pasta dish. Garlic Bread: Offers a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy pasta, perfect for soaking up every last bit of sauce. Caesar Salad: This crisp, refreshing salad adds a delightful crunch and brightness to the meal, balancing the richness of the pasta. Steamed Broccoli: Tender, vibrant broccoli provides a nutritious element that complements the cheesiness, adding both color and health to your table. Roasted Veggies: A medley of seasonal roasted vegetables enhance flavors with their caramelized sweetness, creating a vibrant visual appeal. Coleslaw: This tangy and crunchy side brings a refreshing contrast, cutting through the richness of the Cheesy Philly Cheesesteak Pasta. Sweet Tea or Sparkling Lemonade: A chilled drink enhances the meal experience, refreshing your palate and complementing the savory richness of the dish. Each of these options brings a unique blend of flavors and textures to elevate your dining experience with Cheesy Philly Cheesesteak Pasta! How to Store and Freeze Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps your Philly Cheesesteak Pasta fresh and ready for a quick reheat. Freezer: To freeze, portion the pasta into freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be stored for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Reheating: For best results, reheat in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally to maintain the creamy texture. You may add a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce if needed. Make-Ahead: Assemble the dish without baking, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving for a fresh, piping-hot meal! Expert Tips for Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Season Mindfully: Be cautious with salt, as the French onion soup and cheese already contain sodium. Taste before adding more salt. Perfect Pasta: Ensure your penne is cooked al dente to prevent it from soaking up too much sauce and turning mushy. Meat Swap: If using thinly sliced steak, cook it separately to your desired level then mix it in just before serving. This keeps it tender and juicy! Cooking Cheesy Perfection: When topping with cheese, spread it evenly across the pasta for uniform melting and gooey goodness. Leftover Love: Store any leftovers in an airtight container and reheat gently on low heat to maintain the creamy texture of the Philly Cheesesteak Pasta. Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Variations Feel free to get creative and give this delicious dish your own twist with these enjoyable substitutions. Vegetarian Delight: Omit ground beef and add extra mushrooms, bell peppers, and zucchini. Tofu or tempeh can be tossed in for added protein, creating a wholesome vegetarian feast! Creamy Boost: If you crave extra creaminess, fold in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese after the sauce thickens. This will enhance the sauce’s richness, making it perfectly indulgent. Pasta Shape Swap: Not a fan of penne? Swap it with rotini or rigatoni for a playful twist. Different shapes hold the sauce differently, making every bite unique. Extra Veggies: Add some chopped spinach or kale in the last few minutes of cooking for a nutrition boost. This not only increases the vegetable content but adds vibrant color to your pasta. Spice it Up: Add some crushed red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick! This will add a delightful warmth that complements the savory flavors beautifully. Cheese Lovers’ Choice: Mix up the cheese! Try using gouda, cheddar, or even a dairy-free cheese blend for a fun flavor variation that suits your preference. Savory Swap: Instead of using canned French onion soup, make a homemade version with sautéed onions, beef broth, and seasonings for a fresher taste. It’s worth the extra effort for the flavor! Seafood Twist: For a seafood take, substitute beef with shrimp or even crab. Pairing with a light lemon cream sauce can take your dish in a whole new direction, reminiscent of a seafood pasta. For more delicious pasta inspiration, don’t forget to check out my family-favorite Tomato Bacon Pasta or savor the creamy goodness of Beef Bowtie Pasta. Enjoy experimenting with these tasty variations! Make Ahead Options These delicious Philly Cheesesteak Pasta make-ahead options are perfect for busy weeknights! You can chop the vegetables, cook the pasta, and even brown the ground beef up to 24 hours in advance, storing everything in airtight containers in the refrigerator. To maintain freshness and avoid soggy pasta, keep the cheese separate until you’re ready to bake. When it’s time to serve, simply combine all components in the skillet, top with cheese, and bake for an additional 15 minutes at 375°F (190°C) until bubbly and golden. This approach not only saves time but also delivers warm, comforting flavors just like a freshly made dish! Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right pasta for Philly Cheesesteak Pasta? Absolutely! I recommend using penne pasta for this dish because of its perfectly textured shape that holds onto the sauce well. However, you can easily swap it for other pasta shapes like rotini or rigatoni if you prefer a fun twist. Just ensure whatever pasta you choose is cooked al dente for the best results! What’s the best way to store leftover Philly Cheesesteak Pasta? You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best to wait until the pasta is completely cooled down before sealing it to maintain quality. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it gently on low heat to preserve its creamy texture. Can I freeze Philly Cheesesteak Pasta? Yes, you can certainly freeze Philly Cheesesteak Pasta! For best results, divide it into portions and place them in freezer-safe bags or containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge, and reheat it in a skillet, adding a splash of milk or broth to help loosen the sauce if necessary. What can I substitute for ground beef in this recipe? If you’re looking for alternatives, using thinly sliced steak such as ribeye or filet mignon is a fantastic choice as it adds an authentic cheesesteak flavor. For a healthier option or to make it vegetarian, you could use more mushrooms and veggies, or try tofu or tempeh for additional protein. How can I ensure my cheese melts perfectly? For that gooey, melty cheese topping that makes this dish a hit, be sure to evenly sprinkle the provolone and mozzarella cheese over the pasta before baking. Bake until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden; this may take about 15 minutes at 375°F (190°C). Keeping an eye on it will help prevent it from over-browning! Is this dish suitable for people with dairy allergies? If dairy is an issue, you can modify this recipe by using dairy-free cheese alternatives. There are great options available that melt well, allowing you to enjoy the creamy goodness of Philly Cheesesteak Pasta without any dairy concerns. Also, the meat can always be swapped out to suit individual dietary needs. Irresistible Philly Cheesesteak Pasta You’ll Crave Every Night This Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is a comforting one-pan dish combining ground beef, mushrooms, and peppers for a quick family-friendly meal. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 620 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pasta12 oz Penne Pasta or substitute with rotini or rigatoniFor the Meat Sauce1.25 lbs Ground Beef or use thinly shaved steak10 oz White Button Mushrooms sliced, or cremini mushrooms1 medium Onion chopped; yellow or red onions for sweetness1 Green Bell Pepper chopped; can substitute with red or yellow peppers1 can Condensed French Onion Soup 10.5 oz can1 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce or substitute with soy sauceFor Thickening the Sauce0.5 cup Cold Water1 tbsp Cornstarch or flour with adjusted quantityFor the Cheesy Topping2 cups Provolone and Mozzarella Cheese shredded; can use cheddar or dairy-free optionFor SeasoningKosher Salt to tasteFreshly Ground Black Pepper to taste Equipment large ovenproof skilletlarge pot Method Cooking InstructionsPreheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the penne pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 9-11 minutes. Drain and set aside.In a large ovenproof skillet, heat over medium heat and add the ground beef. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Add chopped onion, mushrooms, and bell pepper; cook until tender and beef is no longer pink, about 5 more minutes.Stir in the condensed French onion soup and Worcestershire sauce. In a small bowl, mix cold water with cornstarch until smooth. Pour this into the skillet, stirring continuously. Simmer for 5 minutes until sauce thickens.Fold the cooked penne pasta into the beef and vegetable mixture in the skillet, ensuring every piece of pasta is coated.Sprinkle the shredded provolone and mozzarella cheese evenly across the top.Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 620kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 38gFat: 28gSaturated Fat: 13gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 680mgPotassium: 680mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 220mgIron: 3.5mg NotesStore leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For freezing, portion into freezer-safe containers; it can be stored for up to 2 months. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
