If you’re anything like me and can never resist a Philly cheesesteak or a creamy pasta dish, this Philly cheesesteak pasta recipe is going to steal your heart. It combines all the rich, savory flavors you love—tender beef, melty cheese, sautéed peppers, and onions—into a creamy, one-pot pasta that’s ready in less than 30 minutes. I first made this dish on a busy weeknight, and it quickly became a family favorite. It’s comforting, satisfying, and so easy to pull together.
This recipe checks all the boxes. It’s full of flavor, comes together effortlessly, and delivers that cheesy goodness you’ve been craving.
Table Of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
🍽️ Comfort Food with a Philly Twist
Philly cheesesteaks are iconic for a reason. The juicy beef, caramelized onions, and melted cheese—there’s something so comforting about that combination. This Philly cheesesteak pasta takes all those delicious flavors and wraps them in a rich, creamy sauce that coats each piece of pasta. Every bite is like a hug from the inside, and the best part is, you get all the indulgence without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s the perfect mix of rich, satisfying comfort food with just the right amount of indulgence.
🥄 One-Pot Dinner That’s Ready in Under 30 Minutes
I know how busy weeknights can get, which is why this recipe is such a lifesaver. With only one skillet or pot to clean, and using simple, everyday ingredients, you can have a hearty, satisfying dinner ready in under 30 minutes. The best part? Minimal prep and easy cleanup, making it the ultimate weeknight hero.
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly, Meal Prep–Friendly & Budget-Friendly
Kids absolutely love this dish—whether it’s the creamy sauce or the cheesy, beefy flavor, it’s a hit with even the pickiest eaters. It also reheats beautifully, so you can enjoy leftovers the next day, making it great for meal prep. And with ground beef and pasta as the base, this meal is budget-friendly, making it ideal for feeding a crowd without breaking the bank.
Bonus: You can easily double the recipe and freeze a batch for a quick dinner later, saving you time when you need it most.
This Philly cheesesteak pasta is the perfect balance of comfort and convenience, and I’m sure it’ll become a staple in your weekly meal rotation just like it has in mine!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating the perfect philly cheesesteak pasta starts with the right ingredients. Luckily, you don’t need anything fancy—just a few everyday staples and your favorite type of cheese to bring that classic Philly flavor into a creamy, dreamy pasta dish.
🥩 Key Ingredients for Flavor and Texture
Here’s what you’ll need to build that savory, cheesy foundation:
- Ground beef – While traditional cheesesteaks use thinly sliced ribeye, ground beef is quicker, more affordable, and still packed with flavor.
- Pasta – Short shapes like penne, rotini, or cavatappi hold the sauce best. Cook them al dente so they don’t get mushy.
- Bell peppers – Green is classic, but red, yellow, or a combo adds sweetness and color.
- Onion – Sliced yellow onions caramelize beautifully and enhance that signature Philly taste.
- Garlic – Just a clove or two adds depth without overpowering.
- Beef broth – Adds savory richness to the sauce and infuses the noodles with extra flavor.
- Worcestershire sauce – Gives it that umami boost that takes the beef to the next level.
- Cream cheese or heavy cream – For a luscious, creamy texture (you can use one or both depending on your preference).
- Provolone cheese – The classic Philly melt! It melts smooth and brings authentic flavor.
- Mozzarella (optional) – Adds stretch and extra creaminess for cheese lovers.
Pro Tip: Want more heat? Add crushed red pepper or diced jalapeños when sautéing the peppers and onions.
🔁 Substitution Ideas
Whether you’re out of something or adjusting for dietary needs, here are smart swaps:
| Ingredient | Substitution Options |
|---|---|
| Ground beef | Thin steak strips, ground turkey, or tofu |
| Regular pasta | Gluten-free pasta or whole wheat pasta |
| Cream cheese | Greek yogurt or a dairy-free alternative |
| Provolone | Cheddar, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack |
| Beef broth | Chicken broth or vegetable broth |
Trying to go low-carb? Replace pasta with cooked spaghetti squash or zucchini noodles.
🍽 Pantry Check Checklist
✅ Pasta
✅ Ground beef
✅ Onion & bell peppers
✅ Cream cheese or cream
✅ Provolone cheese
✅ Garlic
✅ Broth
✅ Worcestershire sauce
✅ Salt, pepper, optional herbs
With these essentials on hand, you’re ready to make a seriously satisfying philly cheesesteak pasta any night of the week.
🧀 Love hearty, cheesy comfort food?
Don’t miss our Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole — it’s a rich, family-favorite bake loaded with beef, potatoes, and melty cheese!
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Ready to turn a few simple ingredients into a creamy, cheesy one-pot masterpiece? This step-by-step guide will walk you through exactly how to make philly cheesesteak pasta in under 30 minutes—no fancy tools, no mess, just bold flavor.
🔥 Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet or deep sauté pan, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and use a spatula to break it up.
- Cook until fully browned and no longer pink (about 5–7 minutes).
- Drain excess fat if needed, especially if you’re using higher-fat ground beef.
Optional flavor booster: Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce while the meat cooks to enhance that classic cheesesteak depth.
🧅 Step 2: Sauté the Peppers and Onions
After the beef is cooked, move it to one side of the pan. Add sliced onions and bell peppers to the empty side and sauté until softened, about 4–5 minutes.
- Once the veggies are tender and aromatic, mix everything together.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 1 additional minute, stirring frequently so it doesn’t burn.
🍝 Step 3: Add Pasta, Broth & Simmer
Add uncooked pasta directly to the pan with the beef and veggies.
- Pour in 3 to 3½ cups of beef broth (enough to cover the pasta).
- Stir well, making sure the pasta is submerged.
- Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer.
- Cover and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally until pasta is tender.
If it gets too dry before the pasta is done, add an extra splash of broth or water.
🧀 Step 4: Make It Creamy and Cheesy
Once the pasta is fully cooked and the broth mostly absorbed, reduce the heat to low.
- Mix in 4 oz of cream cheese (or ½ cup of heavy cream).
- Add shredded provolone cheese and mozzarella, stirring until melted and creamy.
- Adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and additional Worcestershire sauce if preferred.
You want the sauce to coat every noodle without being soupy. Let it thicken for 2–3 minutes if needed.
🍽 Step 5: Serve & Garnish
Spoon the finished philly cheesesteak pasta into bowls and top with extra cheese, parsley, or crushed red pepper if you like a little kick.
Pair with garlic bread, a crisp green salad, or just enjoy on its own for a truly satisfying, all-in-one dinner.
🥣 Craving more creamy comfort in a bowl?
Try our Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup—it’s rich, cozy, and packed with tender chicken and cheese-filled pasta. The perfect companion to your pasta nights!
Tips for Making It Perfect Every Time
Even though philly cheesesteak pasta is a quick and simple one-pot dinner, a few pro tips can make the difference between a good dish and one that gets requested on repeat.
Let’s cover the small tweaks that make a big impact.
🍝 Use the Right Pasta Shape
Not all pasta holds up the same way in one-pot dishes. You want something short, sturdy, and with texture that grabs onto the sauce.
Best pasta shapes:
- Rotini – Twists that trap creamy sauce perfectly
- Cavatappi – Spiral tubes that hold shape and flavor
- Penne – Classic, reliable, and great for quick cooking
- Elbow macaroni – Family-friendly and always satisfying
Avoid delicate noodles or long strands like spaghetti—they can get mushy or overcook easily in one-pot meals.
🧄 Deglaze the Pan for Extra Flavor
After sautéing your beef, onions, and peppers, you may notice browned bits stuck to the pan. Don’t skip them—they’re loaded with flavor!
Simply splash in a little beef broth or water and scrape the bottom of the pan to deglaze before adding the pasta. This step helps pull all those caramelized bits into the sauce.
🥄 Don’t Overcook the Pasta
Since the pasta is simmered directly in the broth with all the ingredients, timing is key.
- Check pasta at the 10-minute mark to avoid soggy noodles.
- Stir occasionally to keep it from sticking or clumping.
- If your pasta is done but the sauce is too thin, cook uncovered for 2–3 extra minutes to reduce and thicken.
Want it creamier? Add an extra splash of heavy cream or a small handful of shredded cheese before serving.
🧀 Choose the Right Cheese Combo
To keep things melty—not stringy or oily—stick with cheeses that melt smoothly.
Great melting cheeses:
- Provolone – Traditional Philly flavor
- Mozzarella – Stretchy and mild
- Cream cheese – Smooth texture and slight tang
- Monterey Jack – Adds richness and subtle sharpness
Avoid pre-shredded cheese when possible—it contains anti-caking agents that can prevent smooth melting.
⏱ Save Time with Prep Shortcuts
Busy weeknight? Try these hacks:
- Use pre-chopped frozen peppers and onions
- Brown the beef ahead and refrigerate up to 2 days
- Swap in cooked pasta and just stir it into the sauce at the end (reduce broth amount)
With these tips, your philly cheesesteak pasta will come out perfectly creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor—every single time.
🥩 Craving bold, cheesy flavor in every bite?
Try our Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf Recipe — it’s a juicy, savory twist on classic meatloaf packed with melty provolone, sautéed peppers, and onions.
Variations of Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
Whether you’re switching up ingredients to suit your diet, want to make it spicier, or just want a slightly different take, this creamy philly cheesesteak pasta is super easy to customize.
Here are some of the most delicious and reader-loved twists.
🥩 1. Steak Strip Version
Want to stay true to the original Philly cheesesteak? Swap the ground beef for thinly sliced steak.
Best cuts for cheesesteak-style pasta:
- Ribeye (classic Philly choice)
- Sirloin or flank steak (leaner, more budget-friendly)
How to cook:
- Sear quickly on high heat until just cooked
- Slice thin across the grain
- Toss into the pasta after it’s cooked to avoid overcooking
This version adds an extra layer of indulgence and feels more like the classic sandwich in pasta form.
🔥 2. Spicy Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
Crank up the heat for those who like it bold.
Easy ways to add spice:
- Add diced jalapeños or poblano peppers while sautéing veggies
- Stir in 1–2 teaspoons of hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes
- Use pepper jack cheese in place of mozzarella
Spicy lovers: Don’t forget a drizzle of sriracha or chipotle crema on top before serving!
🥑 3. Low-Carb or Keto-Friendly Version
Watching carbs? You can still enjoy all the cheesesteak flavor—without the pasta.
Low-carb swaps:
- Replace pasta with zucchini noodles (zoodles) or steamed cauliflower florets
- Use steak or ground beef with peppers and onions
- Melt cheese directly into the skillet mixture and serve it as a cheesesteak skillet bowl
This version is naturally gluten-free and keto-approved when you skip the pasta and thicken the sauce with cheese.
🌾 4. Gluten-Free Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
All the flavor, none of the gluten.
Simple gluten-free options:
- Use your favorite certified gluten-free pasta
- Make sure your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free (some contain wheat)
- Choose thickening agents like arrowroot powder or cornstarch if needed
It’s comfort food without compromise—great for sensitive eaters and family meals alike.
🧀 5. Extra-Cheesy Bake Version
Turn your skillet pasta into a cheesy baked dish.
How to do it:
- Prepare the pasta as normal
- Transfer to a greased baking dish
- Top with shredded provolone and mozzarella
- Bake at 375°F for 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden
This twist gives you a crusty cheese top that’s irresistibly good—great for dinner parties or cozy weekends.
🧀 Love cheesy, beefy meals?
Don’t miss our Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup Recipe—a creamy, comforting bowl loaded with seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and melty cheese. Perfect for cozy nights in!
Make-Ahead, Storage & Freezing Tips
One of the best things about philly cheesesteak pasta—aside from the creamy, cheesy deliciousness—is how well it holds up for leftovers. Whether you want to prep it for busy weeknights, store it for lunch the next day, or freeze a big batch for later, this dish is up for the job.
Here’s how to do it right.
🧊 How to Store Leftovers
After your philly cheesesteak pasta has cooled to room temperature, transfer it into an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for up to 4 days
- Make sure the container is tightly sealed to prevent the pasta from drying out
- If the sauce thickens too much in the fridge, just stir in a splash of milk or broth when reheating
Pro Tip: Store portions separately for easy grab-and-go lunches or dinners.
🔁 How to Reheat Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
Keep the creamy texture and full flavor with these quick reheating tips:
| Method | How-To |
|---|---|
| Microwave | Add 1–2 tbsp broth or water, cover loosely, heat in 60-second intervals, stir in between |
| Stovetop | Heat on medium-low with a splash of cream or broth, stir until warm and smooth |
| Oven (for baked version) | Bake covered at 350°F for 15–20 minutes, uncover last few mins to brown cheese top |
Avoid overheating or the cheese may separate.
❄️ Can You Freeze Philly Cheesesteak Pasta?
Yes! Philly cheesesteak pasta is totally freezer-friendly, especially if you’re using ground beef.
How to freeze it properly:
- Let the pasta cool completely
- Store in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags
- Freeze for up to 2 months
- Label with the date and contents
To reheat from frozen:
- Thaw overnight in the fridge
- Reheat gently using one of the methods above
Freezing in single portions makes it easy to defrost just what you need!
🍱 Meal Prep Tips for Busy Weeks
Want to make your philly cheesesteak pasta ahead of time and still keep it fresh? Follow these easy prep hacks:
- Cook the base (beef, onions, peppers) ahead of time and store separately
- Add cooked pasta and cheese right before serving
- Use divided meal prep containers to portion out servings for 3–4 days
- Keep garnishes (extra cheese, parsley, hot sauce) separate to add fresh at serving time
Now your philly cheesesteak pasta can be just as convenient as it is crave-worthy—any day of the week.
🥩 Can’t get enough tender, flavorful beef?
Check out our Steak Bites Recipe—quick-seared, juicy, and perfect as a main dish or a protein-packed appetizer that pairs well with pasta or veggies!
Philly Cheesesteak Pasta FAQs
❓ What makes a Philly cheesesteak special?
A Philly cheesesteak is iconic for its thinly sliced steak, sautéed onions, and melted provolone cheese (or sometimes Cheez Whiz) served on a hoagie roll. What makes it truly special is the balance of tender meat, gooey cheese, and savory flavor in every bite. This same combination of ingredients makes philly cheesesteak pasta irresistible—creamy, cheesy, and loaded with rich beef flavor.
❓ What is the best steak for pasta?
The best steak for pasta—especially in recipes like philly cheesesteak pasta—is one that’s tender and quick-cooking. Top choices include:
- Ribeye (classic, juicy, well-marbled)
- Flank steak (lean and flavorful when sliced thin against the grain)
- Sirloin (more budget-friendly but still tender)
For convenience, many home cooks also use ground beef with great results.
❓ Does a Philly cheesesteak have sauce?
Traditional Philly cheesesteaks don’t typically come with a sauce like marinara or Alfredo—but the richness comes from the melted cheese and natural beef drippings. That’s why in philly cheesesteak pasta, the creamy cheese sauce acts as a flavorful nod to that melty goodness, combining cream cheese or provolone with beef broth for a silky texture.
❓ How long does Philly cheesesteak last?
Philly cheesesteak pasta lasts 3–4 days when stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If you’re planning to freeze it, store cooled portions in freezer-safe containers and consume within 2 months for best flavor and texture. Reheat gently with a splash of broth or cream to keep the sauce smooth.
🥧 Need a cozy, gluten-free dinner idea?
Check out our Gluten-Free Chicken Pot Pie — it’s creamy, hearty, and topped with a golden, flaky crust you won’t believe is gluten-free!
Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Recipe Card
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or thinly sliced ribeye or sirloin)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced (add red or yellow for color)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz short pasta (penne, rotini, or cavatappi)
- 3½ cups beef broth
- 4 oz cream cheese (or ½ cup heavy cream)
- 1 cup shredded provolone cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella (optional)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or red pepper flakes for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Brown the beef:In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Sauté the vegetables:Push the beef to one side. Add sliced onions and bell peppers. Cook for 4–5 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
- Simmer the pasta:Stir in the uncooked pasta, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to a simmer, and cover. Cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente.
- Make it creamy:Lower heat. Add cream cheese and shredded cheeses. Stir until melted and creamy. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Serve:Spoon into bowls and garnish with parsley, extra cheese, or a dash of red pepper flakes if desired.
Notes
📦 Storage Tips:
- Refrigerate up to 4 days in airtight containers
- Freeze for up to 2 months
- Reheat with a splash of broth or cream for best texture
Conclusion
If you’re craving something rich, cheesy, and ultra-satisfying, this philly cheesesteak pasta delivers all the comfort of a classic Philly sandwich—without the bun. With tender beef, sautéed peppers and onions, melty cheese, and a creamy pasta base, it’s the kind of one-pot dinner you’ll turn to again and again.
Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight or prepping meals in advance, this dish checks every box: it’s simple, affordable, family-approved, and packed with flavor. Plus, with all the variations, you can keep it fresh every time you make it.
🍽️ Want more cozy, easy meals like this one?
Check out our full collection of comfort food dinners to keep your meal plan delicious and stress-free.
Try it once—and you’ll be adding philly cheesesteak pasta to your permanent dinner rotation.
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