Name: Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Pasta for Cozy Weeknight Dinners
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 8 oz Penne Pasta (Can substitute with rotini or elbow macaroni.); 1 lb Ground Beef (Can swap in thinly sliced steak.); 8 oz Mushrooms (Sliced white button or cremini work.); 1 medium Onion (Chopped yellow or sweet onion.); 1 medium Green Bell Pepper (Chopped; red or yellow can be used.); 10.5 oz Condensed French Onion Soup (Essential for classic flavor.); 1 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce (Soy sauce can be a twist.); 1 cup Cold Water (Add as needed for consistency.); 1 tbsp Cornstarch (Flour can serve as a substitute.); 1 cup Provolone and Mozzarella Cheese (Shredded; other melting cheeses can be used.); to taste Kosher Salt; to taste Freshly Ground Black Pepper

Scrolling through my feed recently, I spotted a delicious twist on a classic favorite: Philly Cheesesteak Pasta. This creamy creation combines the hearty flavors of a traditional cheesesteak with the comforting embrace of pasta, all in one dish. Ready in just 30 minutes, this is the ultimate weeknight meal that promises to satisfy your cravings without the fuss. Imagine juicy ground beef mingling with tender mushrooms and crunchy bell peppers, all blanketed in gooey provolone cheese over al dente penne. Not only is this Philly Cheesesteak Pasta a crowd-pleaser, but it also classifies as a one-pan wonder, making cleanup a breeze. So, what do you say? Are you ready to add a scrumptious, comforting dish to your dinner repertoire?

Why is this Philly Cheesesteak Pasta a Must-Try?

Quick Prep Time: In just 30 minutes, enjoy a hearty meal without the long wait. Perfect for busy weeknights!
One-Pan Wonder: Simplify your cooking and cleanup process with this all-in-one dish. Who doesn’t love less time scrubbing pots?
Flavor Explosion: The fusion of ground beef, melty provolone, and sautéed veggies creates a taste sensation that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: This dish captures the essence of a classic cheesesteak, making it an instant family favorite. Pair it with a side salad or some garlic bread for a full meal!
Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize with your favorite pasta or add extra veggies like zucchini or spinach, making it a dish everyone can enjoy!

Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Ingredients

For the Pasta
• Penne Pasta – This hearty shape holds the creamy sauce beautifully; you can substitute with rotini or elbow macaroni if preferred.

For the Filling
• Ground Beef – Adds a savory protein base; you can swap in thinly sliced steak for a traditional cheesesteak experience.
• Mushrooms (Sliced) – Provides a delightful umami flavor and texture; white button mushrooms or cremini work interchangeably.
• Onion (Chopped) – Introduces sweetness and depth; yellow or sweet onions bring out the best flavors in this dish.
• Green Bell Pepper (Chopped) – Adds a fresh crunch; feel free to use red or yellow peppers for a sweeter taste.

For the Sauce
• Condensed French Onion Soup – Serves as the flavorful backbone, essential for achieving that classic cheesesteak flavor; no direct substitute recommended.
• Worcestershire Sauce – Enhances the umami notes; soy sauce can be a great alternative for a unique twist.
• Cold Water – Helps adjust sauce consistency; add as needed to create your desired thickness.
• Cornstarch – Acts as a thickener for the sauce; flour can serve as a substitute if necessary.

For the Cheesy Topping
• Provolone and Mozzarella Cheese (Shredded) – Provides a creamy melty layer, but you can also use other melting cheeses like cheddar for a different flavor.

Seasonings
• Kosher Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Essential for balancing flavors; adjust amounts to suit your taste preferences.

Your remarkable Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is just an ingredient away! Let’s get cooking!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Philly Cheesesteak Pasta

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature will ensure that your cheese melts perfectly and becomes golden brown by the time your Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is ready. While the oven heats up, gather your ingredients and equipment, including a large pot for boiling pasta and an ovenproof skillet for cooking.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta
In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside. Make sure it retains some firmness, as it will continue to cook later in the oven with the rest of the ingredients.

Step 3: Brown the Meat and Veggies
In an ovenproof skillet, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until it’s no longer pink, around 5-7 minutes. As the beef browns, introduce the chopped onions, sliced mushrooms, and green bell peppers, stirring occasionally until the vegetables are tender, about 4-5 minutes.

Step 4: Add the Sauce Ingredients
Lower the heat to medium-low, then pour in the condensed French onion soup and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well to combine, allowing the mixture to simmer gently for a couple of minutes. You’ll notice the rich aroma of the sauce beginning to meld with the beef and veggies, creating a savory base for your Philly Cheesesteak Pasta.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix the cold water with cornstarch until smooth. Gradually add this mixture to the skillet, stirring continuously for about 5 minutes until the sauce thickens. It should coat the back of a spoon nicely, creating a lush texture that will envelop the pasta beautifully.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Once your sauce is thickened to perfection, gently fold in the cooked penne pasta. Stir until the pasta is well-coated with the creamy mixture, ensuring every bite will be filled with the delicious flavors of the Philly Cheesesteak Pasta.

Step 7: Top with Cheese
Sprinkle shredded provolone and mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the pasta mixture. Make sure to cover every square inch for that melty goodness. The cheese will create a delightful topping that turns this creamy dish into a hearty favorite.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you want the cheese to melt and turn lightly golden brown. When it’s done, the aroma will fill your kitchen, signaling it’s time to take your Philly Cheesesteak Pasta out of the oven and serve.

What to Serve with Philly Cheesesteak Pasta?

Elevate your dining experience with delightful side dishes that complement the creamy richness of this beloved pasta.

Garlic Bread: The crusty, buttery texture of garlic bread adds a delightful crunch, balancing the creamy pasta perfectly.
Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and zesty dressing create a refreshing contrast that lightens up each satisfying bite of pizza-like pasta goodness.
Steamed Broccoli: This vibrant vegetable brings a gentle crunch and lovely color, enhancing your meal with both flavor and nutrition.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their nutty flavor and caramelized edges provide a mouthwatering pairing to the cheesy goodness of the pasta.

Imagine serving this hearty meal alongside a chilled glass of sweet iced tea or a rich, velvety red wine to elevate every aspect of your dining experience. Don’t forget a simple dessert like chocolate mousse or a classic cheesecake to round out your evening.

Storage Tips for Philly Cheesesteak Pasta

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep the creamy texture intact. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave until warmed through.

Freezer: Freeze any unconsumed Philly Cheesesteak Pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: For best results, reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to restore creaminess, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.

Wrap It Up: Ensure the pasta is well covered to prevent freezer burn; use plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil for an extra layer of protection.

Make Ahead Options

These Philly Cheesesteak Pasta preparations are ideal for busy home cooks looking to simplify weeknight meals! You can chop the onions, mushrooms, and green bell peppers up to 3 days in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, the sauce components, including the French onion soup and Worcestershire sauce mixture, can be combined and refrigerated up to 24 hours before you plan to cook. When you’re ready to serve, simply warm the meat and veggies, add the cooked pasta, and follow the final steps to bake with cheese until bubbly and golden. By prepping ahead, you’ll enjoy a comforting, homemade meal with minimal effort!

Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to let your creativity shine with these delightful twists to personalize your Philly Cheesesteak Pasta experience!

Vegetarian Delight: Replace ground beef with a medley of mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach for a delicious veggie version. This option allows the earthy flavors of the vegetables to shine through while keeping the dish hearty.
Steak Swap: For a traditional twist, use thinly sliced steak instead of ground beef. Searing the steak adds a robust texture and flavor that takes your pasta to the next level.
Cheese Choices: Mix things up by swapping provolone and mozzarella with cheddar or gouda for a richer flavor profile. Each cheese brings a unique twist that elevates the dish.
Pasta Variety: Feel free to experiment with different pasta shapes such as rotini, farfalle, or even whole wheat options. Each shape brings its own fun texture!
Spice It Up: Sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes or sauté jalapeños for a zesty kick. Heat can transform your meal into a lively fiesta of flavors.
Bold Seasonings: Add garlic powder, Italian seasoning, or smoked paprika for an aromatic touch. These spices can deepen the flavor and add an extra layer of deliciousness.
Extra Creaminess: Pour in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half when mixing in the cheese for an even creamier sauce that compels you to dive right in!

This dish pairs beautifully with a side salad or some crunchy garlic bread for a cozy dinner. If you’re looking for other comforting meals, why not check out our Garlic Butter Pasta or Creamy Rotel Pasta Ground? Both are sure to please your family!

Expert Tips for Philly Cheesesteak Pasta

• Ingredient Switch: Use thinly sliced steak instead of ground beef for a more authentic cheesesteak flavor without compromising on ease.

• Vegetable Variety: Feel free to add in or substitute with vegetables like zucchini or spinach for added nutrition and color in your Philly Cheesesteak Pasta.

• Watch the Salt: Keep an eye on your sodium levels by salting only at the end, as both the French onion soup and cheese are already salty.

• Thicker Sauce: If your sauce is too thin, mix an additional teaspoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the skillet to thicken further.

• Storage Tips: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making reheating a tasty treat for lunch or a quick dinner!

Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Recipe FAQs

What type of pasta works best for Philly Cheesesteak Pasta?
Absolutely! Penne pasta is ideal because its tubular shape holds onto the creamy sauce perfectly. However, you can swap it for any pasta shape, like rotini or elbow macaroni, if you prefer.

How can I store leftover Philly Cheesesteak Pasta?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.

Can I freeze Philly Cheesesteak Pasta?
Certainly! Freeze any unconsumed Philly Cheesesteak Pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To thaw, move it to the fridge overnight. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to restore its creamy texture.

What should I do if the sauce is too thin?
If you find your sauce is thinner than desired, mix an extra teaspoon of cornstarch with a bit of cold water to form a slurry. Stir this into your skillet and cook for a few more minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken nicely.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes! If you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, note that this recipe contains dairy and gluten. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta and check your canned soup for suitable ingredients. Also, for a vegetarian version, simply omit the beef and add extra veggies like zucchini or spinach.

How do I select ripe ingredients for this recipe?
When choosing your bell peppers, look for firm ones with smooth, shiny skin—avoid any with dark spots or wrinkles. For mushrooms, select ones that feel firm and have a fresh smell. Fresh onion should be solid without soft spots, as these indicate they may be past their prime.