Name: Hearty Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Ready in 30 Minutes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 8 ounces Penne Pasta (You can use rotini or rigatoni as alternatives.); 1 pound Ground Beef (Thinly shaved steak can also be used.); 8 ounces White Button Mushrooms (Cremini mushrooms work as well.); 1 medium Onion (Shallots can be a milder alternative.); 1 medium Green Bell Pepper (Red or yellow peppers can add sweetness.); 1 can Condensed French Onion Soup (Homemade onion soup is a great alternative.); 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce (Soy sauce can be used as a substitute.); 1/4 cup Cold Water (Used to dissolve cornstarch.); 2 tablespoons Cornstarch (Can be replaced with all-purpose flour.); 1 cup Shredded Provolone and Mozzarella Cheese (Other melting cheeses like cheddar work too.); to taste Kosher Salt (Adjust based on the soup's saltiness.); to taste Freshly Ground Black Pepper (Adjust based on the soup's saltiness.)

I was completely taken by surprise when I tasted the first forkful of this Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Pasta. Picture juicy ground beef mingling with tender mushrooms and fresh green peppers, all enveloped in a luscious provolone cheese sauce, tossed together with perfectly cooked penne pasta. It’s a one-pan marvel that transforms the beloved cheesesteak into a comforting pasta dish, ready in under 30 minutes. This recipe is a lifesaver for anyone craving a hearty, home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a definite crowd-pleaser that will have your family asking for seconds! Are you ready to whip up this delightful twist on a classic?

Why is Philly Cheesesteak Pasta a Must-Try?

Flavor Explosion: This dish offers a delightful harmony of savory ground beef, earthy mushrooms, and crisp green peppers, all brought together in a creamy sauce that will make your taste buds dance.

Quick and Easy: With its one-pan cooking method and simple ingredients, you can have a rich dinner on the table in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Family-Friendly: This hearty meal is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters, and it’s a great way to introduce your family to classic cheesesteak flavors in a fun, new way.

Versatile Options: Feel free to customize this recipe! Swap out ground beef for options like chicken or try a vegetarian version with sautéed zucchini or spinach, just as in my Chicken Mozzarella Pasta.

Make Ahead: If you’re planning meals for the week, this pasta can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge. It reheats beautifully, making it a fantastic option for leftovers!

Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Ingredients

• Get ready to gather some delicious components!

For the Pasta Base

Penne Pasta – Perfectly holds the creamy sauce; you can swap it with rotini or rigatoni for fun shapes.

For the Meat and Veggies

Ground Beef – Adds essential protein and heartiness; feel free to use thinly shaved steak for a classic cheesesteak flavor.
White Button Mushrooms – Contributes moisture and an earthy taste; cremini mushrooms also work beautifully here.
Medium Onion – Provides sweetness and depth; consider using shallots for a gentler flavor.
Green Bell Pepper – Brings a fresh crunch and vibrant color; red or yellow peppers can add a hint of sweetness.

For the Sauce

Condensed French Onion Soup – Serves as a flavorful base; homemade onion soup can be a fantastic alternative.
Worcestershire Sauce – Elevates the umami, but soy sauce can stand in if needed.
Cold Water – Used to dissolve cornstarch for a perfectly thick sauce; no substitute necessary.
Cornstarch – Essential for thickening the sauce; can be replaced with all-purpose flour or arrowroot powder.

For the Toppings

Shredded Provolone and Mozzarella Cheese – Creates a creamy, rich topping; any melting cheese like cheddar works great too.
Kosher Salt & Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Key for enhancing flavors; adjust to suit your taste based on the French onion soup’s saltiness.

Now that you have all the ingredients ready, you’re just a step away from creating a warm, comforting bowl of Philly Cheesesteak Pasta that your family will adore!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Philly Cheesesteak Pasta

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This high temperature ensures that our creamy Philly Cheesesteak Pasta achieves a beautifully melted and bubbly cheese topping. As the oven warms, you can prepare the other ingredients without delaying the baking process.

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, which typically takes about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside, allowing it to rest while you cook the meat and vegetables, ensuring it retains its perfect texture.

Step 3: Brown the Beef and Vegetables
In an ovenproof skillet, heat a drizzle of oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula, and cook for about 5-7 minutes until browned. Once the beef is nearly cooked through, toss in the chopped mushrooms, diced onion, and sliced green bell pepper. Sauté for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant, creating the delicious base for your Philly Cheesesteak Pasta.

Step 4: Add the Sauces
Reduce the heat to medium-low and stir in the condensed French onion soup and Worcestershire sauce, mixing well to combine. Allow the mixture to cook for about 2-3 minutes, letting those rich flavors meld together while your kitchen fills with a wholesome aroma that foreshadows the comfort to come.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with cold water until smooth. Pour this mixture into the skillet with the beef and veggie medley, stirring constantly. Allow it to simmer for 5 minutes, during which the sauce will thicken and become luxuriously creamy, perfect for enveloping your pasta later.

Step 6: Combine the Pasta
Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet, gently folding it into the beef and sauce mixture. Ensure every piece of pasta is evenly coated with the creamy goodness. This step transforms your skillet into a vibrant medley of flavors and textures, setting the stage for the final cheesy topping.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded provolone and mozzarella cheese over the pasta mixture. Then, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes. Keep an eye on it as the cheese melts and turns golden brown, bubbling invitingly—a true testament to your delicious Philly Cheesesteak Pasta creation.

What to Serve with Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Pasta?

As you dive into this creamy creation, imagine complementing it with delightful sides that enhance the meal experience.

Garlic Bread: Perfectly crunchy and warm, it’s ideal for soaking up any leftover sauce, creating a comforting dinner atmosphere.
Side Salad: A fresh mix of greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers adds a vibrant crunch and balances the creamy pasta beautifully.
Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized carrots, broccoli, or zucchini add a savory sweetness and a healthy touch, making every bite a celebration of flavors.
Homemade Coleslaw: The crisp, tangy crunch of coleslaw provides a beautiful contrast to the creamy pasta and is always a crowd-pleaser.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Smooth and buttery, these potatoes add indulgence to your plate, making it a hearty, filling experience.
Ice-Cold Lemonade: A refreshing drink that cuts through the richness of the dish while giving a burst of citrusy brightness in every sip.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: For dessert, warm cookies provide a sweet ending to your meal, satisfying the whole family’s sweet tooth.

Each of these delightful sides is designed to elevate your Philly Cheesesteak Pasta experience into a truly memorable meal.

Make Ahead Options

Prep your Philly Cheesesteak Pasta in advance to save time on busy weeknights! You can cook the ground beef and sauté the vegetables (mushrooms, onion, and bell pepper) up to 3 days ahead, storing them in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can cook the penne pasta and toss it with a splash of oil to prevent sticking — just refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before assembling. When you’re ready to finish the dish, combine everything in an ovenproof skillet, stir in the French onion soup and Worcestershire sauce, and proceed to thicken the sauce. Top with cheese, bake until bubbling, and enjoy this creamy comfort food just as delicious as when freshly made!

Tips for the Best Philly Cheesesteak Pasta

Mind the Salt: Adjust salt carefully since both French onion soup and cheese have high sodium; taste before adding more.
Don’t Overcook Meat: Sauté ground beef until just browned. Avoid overcooking; it can dry out and toughen the meat.
Evenly Coat Pasta: Make sure to fold the pasta gently into the sauce mixture so every piece is coated with that creamy goodness for maximum flavor.
Experiment with Cheeses: While provolone and mozzarella are classic choices, feel free to mix in cheddar or Monterey Jack for a fun twist on your Philly Cheesesteak Pasta.
Thickening Tip: When mixing cornstarch with water, ensure there are no lumps. Stir it in well to achieve a smooth and creamy sauce.

Variations & Substitutions for Philly Cheesesteak Pasta

Feel free to make this creamy dish your own with these fun and tasty variations!

Vegetarian Option: Replace ground beef with sautéed vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or any of your favorite seasonal veggies. It adds a delightful freshness! The creamy cheese sauce pairs beautifully with the natural sweetness of the veggies.
Spice it Up: For a kick, add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to awaken those taste buds. It will elevate the dish by adding a smidge of heat!
Cheese Choices: Don’t be shy to switch up the cheese! Try using a mix of cheddar or Monterey Jack for a rich, cheesy experience. Being adventurous can yield delicious surprises!
Different Pasta Shapes: Although penne works perfectly, you can experiment with rotini or rigatoni. Their shapes will add a unique texture to every bite.
Break Away from Beef: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version without compromising flavor. It can still deliver that hearty satisfaction!
Add More Veggies: Toss in some broccoli florets or frozen peas while cooking the beef for a vibrant and colorful dish that boosts nutrition. Plus, it adds an appealing crunch!
Homemade Soup Base: Instead of using condensed French onion soup, try making a homemade version using caramelized onions and beef broth. It’s a fun way to enhance the flavor! If you’ve loved this decadent twist, check out my Garlic Butter Pasta for a luxurious alternative!
Creaminess Factor: To make the dish even richer, stir in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese just before serving. This will create a velvety sauce that everyone will adore!

Your creativity is the secret ingredient; enjoy making this Philly Cheesesteak Pasta uniquely yours!

How to Store and Freeze Philly Cheesesteak Pasta

Fridge: Store your leftover Philly Cheesesteak Pasta in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to maintain creaminess.

Freezer: Freeze for longer storage in an airtight, freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To prevent freezer burn, press a piece of plastic wrap directly against the pasta before sealing.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently on low heat until warmed through. Add a splash of milk or broth to help revive the sauce’s richness.

Portions: Consider portioning before freezing for easy, single-serving meals on busy nights.

Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Recipe FAQs

What type of pasta is best for Philly Cheesesteak Pasta?
Absolutely! Penne pasta is ideal as it holds up well in the creamy sauce. However, you can easily swap it for rotini or rigatoni for a fun twist! The key is to use pasta shapes that can capture that delicious sauce.

How should I store leftover Philly Cheesesteak Pasta?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When reheating, I recommend gently warming it on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to ensure the creaminess of the sauce is restored.

Can I freeze Philly Cheesesteak Pasta?
Yes, you can! Place the cooled Philly Cheesesteak Pasta in an airtight, freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. For the best results, press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the pasta before sealing it to prevent freezer burn.

What can I do if my sauce turns out too thick?
If you find your sauce is thicker than desired, simply add a little more broth or water to the skillet and stir it in over low heat until you reach your desired consistency. This helps to maintain the creaminess without compromising the flavor!

Are there any allergy concerns with this recipe?
Definitely! This recipe contains dairy due to the cheese and soup, and it also has gluten from the pasta. For those with dietary restrictions, consider using gluten-free pasta and dairy-free cheese alternatives to keep it friendly for various diets. Always check labels to be safe!

What if I want to make a vegetarian Philly Cheesesteak Pasta?
For a delightful vegetarian twist, you can replace the ground beef with sautéed vegetables such as zucchini, spinach, or additional mushrooms. This keeps the heartiness of the dish while ensuring it’s a tasty option for non-meat eaters! Enjoy experimenting!