Philly Cheesesteak Pasta: A Savory Twist on Classic Comfort Food

When the bold flavors of a Philly cheesesteak meet the rich, satisfying world of pasta, you get a hearty, crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for weeknights, gatherings, or anytime comfort food cravings strike. This Philly Cheesesteak Pasta recipe combines juicy steak, caramelized onions, sweet bell peppers, creamy cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta into a one-pot wonder that delivers flavor in every bite.

Why Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is the Ultimate Comfort Food

Philly cheesesteaks are known for their succulent thin-sliced beef, melted provolone or American cheese, and sautéed peppers and onions piled high on a hoagie roll. When these signature ingredients are reimagined into a pasta dish, they retain all the bold, umami-packed essence of the original while adding the creamy, carby satisfaction of a pasta bake or skillet meal.

Unlike typical baked pastas, Philly Cheesesteak Pasta doesn’t rely on marinara or tomato-based sauces. Instead, it uses a savory beef and cheese sauce to coat the pasta, creating a creamy and luscious texture that clings to every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Philly Cheesesteak Pasta

To bring this flavor-packed dish to life, you’ll need the following key ingredients:

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound ribeye steak (or sirloin), thinly sliced
1 large onion, thinly sliced
1 green bell pepper, sliced
1 red bell pepper, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
8 oz mushrooms, sliced (optional)
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
8 oz penne or rigatoni pasta
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups beef broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 1/2 cups provolone cheese, shredded
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Philly Cheesesteak Pasta

1. Cook the Pasta

Begin by cooking the pasta in heavily salted boiling water according to the package instructions. For best results, cook it al dente, since the pasta will finish cooking in the sauce later. Drain and set aside.

2. Sear the Steak

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season the thin-sliced ribeye with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Once the pan is hot, sear the steak in batches until it’s browned but still tender. Avoid overcooking. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

3. Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and sauté the onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms until they are soft and slightly caramelized — about 8-10 minutes. Add the minced garlic in the last 2 minutes and stir until fragrant.

4. Create the Cheese Sauce

Push the veggies to the side and melt the butter in the pan. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste. Slowly pour in the beef broth, whisking constantly, followed by the heavy cream. Simmer until the sauce begins to thicken.

Add in the shredded provolone and mozzarella, stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is silky smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

5. Combine Everything

Return the seared steak and cooked pasta to the skillet. Stir everything together until well combined and coated in the rich cheese sauce. Allow it to simmer for another 2-3 minutes so the flavors meld together.

6. Optional: Bake for Golden Perfection

For a crispy cheese topping, transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish, top with extra shredded cheese, and broil for 3-5 minutes until bubbly and golden.

7. Garnish and Serve

Top with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy the ultimate comfort food experience.

Tips for the Best Philly Cheesesteak Pasta

Choose the Right Cut of Steak

Ribeye is the classic choice for its marbling and tenderness, but sirloin or flank steak are great budget-friendly alternatives. Ensure it’s thinly sliced against the grain for maximum tenderness.

Don’t Overcook the Pasta

Since the pasta will simmer in the sauce at the end, cook it one minute less than al dente to prevent it from turning mushy.

Use High-Quality Cheese

Provolone and mozzarella create the perfect balance of flavor and meltability. For extra richness, add a splash of cream cheese or a handful of shredded cheddar.

Customize Your Add-Ins

Add sautéed mushrooms for an umami boost
Swap the pasta for egg noodles or cavatappi
Stir in hot sauce or crushed red pepper for heat
Make it gluten-free with GF pasta and flour substitutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions

Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is excellent for meal prep. Prepare the entire dish and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or broth and warm over medium heat until creamy again.

You can also freeze it — just let it cool completely and freeze in a baking dish wrapped tightly in foil. Reheat from frozen at 350°F until warmed through.

Why This Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Recipe is a Must-Try

One-skillet convenience
Bold, savory flavors of authentic Philly cheesesteak
Creamy, cheesy pasta that satisfies every comfort food craving
Customizable for dietary needs or flavor preferences
Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or casual gatherings

It’s more than a pasta dish — it’s a complete experience that combines nostalgia, indulgence, and rich flavor in every forkful.

What to Serve with Philly Cheesesteak Pasta

Pair your Philly Cheesesteak Pasta with any of these easy side dishes:

Garlic bread or cheesy toast
Caesar salad or mixed greens
Roasted broccoli or grilled asparagus
Crispy potato wedges for an ultra-decadent meal

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Philly Cheesesteak Pasta ahead of time?

Yes! It reheats beautifully. Store in an airtight container and reheat gently with a splash of broth or cream.

Is this recipe spicy?

Not unless you want it to be. For added heat, stir in crushed red pepper or jalapeños.

Can I use ground beef instead of steak?

Absolutely. While it changes the texture, ground beef is a convenient and flavorful substitute.

What other cheeses work well in this dish?

Swiss, American, white cheddar, or cream cheese all blend well for a creamy texture.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a hearty, cheesy, and savory meal that blends the best of two comfort food classics, Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is the answer. With tender steak, melty cheese, and a rich sauce coating every bite of pasta, this dish delivers flavor that keeps everyone coming back for seconds. Whether you’re cooking for family or impressing guests, this is a recipe that stands out.