This Philly Cheesesteak Pasta combines seasoned ground beef, onions, bell peppers, mushrooms, and tender pasta in a creamy provolone sauce. It brings the familiar flavors of a cheesesteak sandwich into an easy one-pot family dinner.
The uncooked pasta simmers directly in beef broth, allowing it to absorb savory flavor while releasing starch that helps thicken the sauce. Cream cheese adds body, while provolone supplies the characteristic cheesesteak-inspired finish.
This is an American-inspired pasta recipe rather than a traditional Philadelphia cheesesteak.
Why You’ll Love This Pasta
- Prepared in one pot.
- Ready in approximately 30 minutes.
- Uses affordable ground beef.
- Filled with peppers and onions.
- Creamy and cheesy.
- Suitable for family dinners.
- Minimal washing up.
- Easy to customize.
- Reheats well.
- Inspired by classic cheesesteak flavors.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 tablespoon olive oil.
- 1 pound lean ground beef.
- 1 small yellow onion, thinly sliced.
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced.
- 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced.
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce.
- ½ teaspoon salt.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper.
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika.
- 8 ounces short pasta, such as penne or rotini.
- 3 cups low-sodium beef broth.
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened and cubed.
- 1½ cups shredded or torn provolone cheese.
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley.
Ingredient Notes
Ground beef: Lean ground beef provides flavor without producing excessive grease.
Green pepper: Green bell pepper has the strongest traditional cheesesteak association, but red pepper can be used for sweetness.
Mushrooms: Mushrooms are optional but add savory flavor.
Pasta: Choose a short, sturdy shape that cooks evenly in the skillet.
Provolone: Mild provolone melts smoothly. Sharp provolone produces a stronger flavor.
Cream cheese: Softened cream cheese blends into the sauce more easily.
How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Heat the olive oil in a large deep skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the ground beef and cook for approximately 5–7 minutes.
Break it into small pieces and drain excessive fat if necessary.
Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
Add the onion, bell pepper, and mushrooms.
Cook for approximately 6–8 minutes, until softened and the mushroom liquid has evaporated.
Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Step 3: Season the Mixture
Add the Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
Stir until everything is evenly seasoned.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
Add the dry pasta and beef broth.
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat.
Cover partially and simmer according to the pasta package timing, stirring frequently.
Add a small amount of broth or water if the skillet becomes dry before the pasta is tender.
Step 5: Add the Cream Cheese
Once the pasta is al dente and most of the broth has been absorbed, reduce the heat to low.
Add the softened cream cheese and stir until smooth.
Step 6: Add the Provolone
Add one cup of provolone gradually.
Stir until melted and creamy.
Place the remaining cheese over the pasta, cover the skillet, and allow it to melt for approximately two minutes.
Step 7: Serve
Taste and adjust the seasoning.
Garnish with parsley and serve immediately.
Tips for Creamy One-Pot Pasta
Use a Deep Skillet
The pan needs enough room for the pasta and broth to simmer without overflowing.
Stir Frequently
One-pot pasta can stick to the bottom as it releases starch.
Add Liquid Gradually When Needed
Pasta brands and shapes absorb different amounts of broth.
Lower the Heat Before Adding Cheese
High heat can make the cheese sauce greasy or grainy.
Serve Promptly
The sauce continues thickening as the pasta stands.
Why Is My Pasta Sauce Too Thick?
The pasta may have absorbed more broth than expected. Stir in warm broth or milk a few tablespoons at a time.
Why Is the Pasta Still Hard?
Add more warm broth, cover, and continue simmering. Ensure the pan remains at a gentle simmer.
Recipe Variations
Steak Cheesesteak Pasta
Replace the ground beef with thinly sliced sirloin or shaved steak. Cook it quickly and remove it before cooking the vegetables.
Spicy Cheesesteak Pasta
Add red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or sliced jalapeños.
Cheesesteak Pasta Bake
Transfer the cooked pasta to a baking dish, cover with additional provolone, and bake until bubbling.
Chicken Cheesesteak Pasta
Use thinly sliced chicken breast instead of beef and cook it to 165°F.
What to Serve With Cheesesteak Pasta
- Green salad.
- Roasted green beans.
- Garlic parmesan Brussels sprouts.
- Air fryer zucchini fries.
- Roasted broccoli.
- Homemade dinner rolls.
- Honey-glazed carrots.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerate cooled pasta in an airtight container for up to three days.
Reheat over low heat with a splash of broth or milk.
Freezing is not recommended for the best texture because cooked pasta and cream cheese sauce can become grainy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this an authentic Philly cheesesteak?
No. It is a pasta dinner inspired by popular cheesesteak flavors.
Can I use another cheese?
Mozzarella melts well, while American cheese produces a smoother sauce. The flavor will differ from provolone.
Can I omit the mushrooms?
Yes. No other adjustment is required.
Can I cook the pasta separately?
Yes. Reduce the broth substantially and prepare the sauce separately before adding cooked pasta.
Can I use ground turkey?
Yes. Add a little extra oil because turkey is leaner.
Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Recipe Card
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American-inspired
Method: Stovetop
Instructions
- Heat oil in a deep skillet.
- Brown the ground beef.
- Drain excessive fat.
- Add the onion, pepper, and mushrooms.
- Cook until softened.
- Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Add Worcestershire sauce and seasonings.
- Add the pasta and beef broth.
- Simmer until the pasta is al dente.
- Add more broth if necessary.
- Reduce the heat.
- Stir in the cream cheese.
- Add one cup of provolone.
- Top with the remaining cheese.
- Cover until melted.
- Garnish and serve.
Recipe Notes
- Use a sufficiently deep skillet.
- Stir the pasta frequently.
- Adjust the broth according to the pasta.
- Add cheese over low heat.
- Test the complete recipe before confirming timing and yield.