Sizzling Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Recipe: Comfort Food Fusion
Sizzling beef and melty cheese dance together in this irresistible Philly cheesesteak pasta that brings classic sandwich flavors directly to your dinner table.
Tender strips of steak mingle with perfectly cooked noodles, creating a mouthwatering fusion of comfort and excitement.
The robust blend of peppers, onions, and savory meat promises a deeply satisfying meal that goes beyond ordinary pasta dishes.
Every forkful delivers a rich, hearty experience that captures the essence of Philadelphia’s iconic sandwich.
Cheese cascades through the pasta, adding creamy indulgence to each bite.
Sharp provolone and gooey white American cheese elevate this dish from simple to spectacular.
Weeknight dinners just got a delicious upgrade with this easy, crowd-pleasing recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Ingredient Rundown
For Meat And Base:
Ground Chuck: Rich, flavorful beef that brings authentic Philly cheesesteak essence with perfect fat content for juicy texture.
Olive Oil: High-quality cooking fat that helps sear meat and develop deep, caramelized flavors.
For Aromatic Vegetables:
Yellow Onion, Red Bell Pepper: Classic cheesesteak vegetable combo that adds sweetness, crunch, and vibrant color to the dish.
Garlic: Powerful flavor booster that infuses the entire pasta with robust, savory undertones.
For Pasta And Liquid Components:
Dry Rotini Pasta: Twisty pasta shape that perfectly captures and holds sauce, creating delicious bites.
Chicken Broth: Provides rich liquid base that tenderizes pasta and enhances overall dish depth.
For Cheese Blend:
Provolone Cheese, Pepper Jack Cheese: Melty, tangy cheese combination that recreates authentic Philly cheesesteak flavor profile with creamy and spicy notes.
For Seasoning:
Kosher Salt, Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that balance and elevate all ingredient flavors, creating harmonious taste experience.
Tools to Cook Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
Large Skillet: Essential for sautéing vegetables and cooking ground beef.
Large Pot: Needed for boiling rotini pasta perfectly.
Broiler-Safe Skillet: Allows for final cheese melting and browning stage.
Cutting Board: Used for slicing onions, bell peppers, and chopping herbs.
Chef's Knife: Helps chop vegetables and herbs precisely.
Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Perfect for stirring and breaking up ground beef.
Colander: Drains pasta after cooking.
Cheese Grater: Shreds provolone and pepper jack cheese quickly.
Measuring Spoons: Ensures accurate seasoning with salt and pepper.
Measuring Cups: Helps measure cheese and broth quantities accurately.
How to Make Cheesesteak-Inspired Pasta
Veggie Foundation
Kickstart the flavor journey by sizzling onions and bell peppers in a skillet. These colorful vegetables will dance and caramelize, creating a rich base that sets the stage for an epic pasta experience.
Meaty Magic
Brown ground chuck in the same pan, breaking it into tasty morsels. The meat will release incredible flavors and blend seamlessly with the softened vegetables.
Pasta Preparation
Boil rotini until it reaches perfect tenderness. This twisty pasta will capture all the delicious sauce in its curves, ensuring maximum flavor in every bite.
Broth Boost
Pour chicken broth into the skillet, allowing everything to simmer and marry together. This liquid gold will infuse the dish with depth and richness.
Cheese Cascade
Sprinkle provolone and pepper jack over the mixture. Watch as these cheeses melt into a creamy blanket, transforming the dish into a comfort food masterpiece.
Broiler Brilliance
Slide the skillet under the broiler for a quick finish. The top will bubble and turn golden, creating an irresistible crispy layer that screams “dig in!”
Finishing Flourish
Garnish with fresh herbs and serve immediately. Each forkful promises a symphony of Philly cheesesteak flavors in pasta form.
Tips for Creamy and Cheesy Pasta
Swap ground chuck for shaved ribeye or thinly sliced sirloin to capture classic Philly cheesesteak authenticity. Freeze the meat slightly before slicing for easier, thinner cuts.
Experiment with different cheese combinations like white american, sharp cheddar, or classic provolone to create your signature flavor profile. Mix and match for a personalized cheesy experience.
Replace ground beef with plant-based alternatives like beyond meat or substitute with sliced mushrooms for a vegetarian twist. Add extra bell peppers or caramelized onions for more depth.
Kick the heat by adding sliced jalapeños, a dash of red pepper flakes, or a drizzle of hot sauce. Worcestershire sauce also brings an extra layer of rich, tangy flavor to the pasta.
Prepare the entire dish in advance and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth to maintain moisture and prevent drying out.
Serving Cheesesteak Pasta
Crowd-Pleasing Companion Treats: Serve alongside crispy garlic bread slices that perfectly soak up the cheesy, meaty sauce.
Fresh Green Accent: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or sliced green onions on top to add a bright, zesty color and light herbaceous flavor that cuts through the rich pasta.
Cool Complement: Pair with a simple side salad dressed in light vinaigrette to balance the hearty, cheesy main dish and provide a refreshing contrast to the warm, melted cheese and savory beef.
Beverage Pairing: Enjoy with a cold beer or robust red wine like cabernet sauvignon that stands up to the strong flavors of provolone, pepper jack, and seasoned ground chuck.
Storing Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Correctly
Fridge Fresh Storage: Transfer leftover pasta to an airtight container, keeping it sealed and chilled for up to 4 days. Cold temperatures help maintain the pasta's texture and prevent bacterial growth.
Quick Reheat Technique: Sprinkle a few drops of water before microwaving to restore moisture. Stir midway through heating to distribute warmth evenly, preventing dry or rubbery pasta edges.
Freezer Friendly Method: Pack cooled pasta in freezer-safe containers, separating portions for easy thawing. Freeze up to 3 weeks, ensuring a delicious meal is always ready when you need a quick dinner solution.
Meal Prep Magic: Prepare ingredients separately and combine just before serving. Store cooked beef, sautéed vegetables, and pasta in different containers to maintain optimal freshness and prevent soggy textures when reheating.
Ingredients in Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
For Meat Base:
Ground Chuck: Rich, flavorful beef that brings authentic Philly cheesesteak essence with its perfect fat content for juicy texture.
For Vegetable Aromatics:
Yellow Onion, Red Bell Pepper: Sweet onions and vibrant peppers create depth and classic cheesesteak flavor profile, adding crunch and natural sweetness.
Garlic: Aromatic ingredient that elevates overall taste with its intense, robust flavor and provides delicious background notes.
For Liquid and Binding Components:
Olive Oil: High-quality cooking fat for sautéing vegetables and meat, ensuring beautiful caramelization and preventing sticking.
Kosher Salt, Black Pepper: Essential seasoning agents that enhance and balance the entire dish's flavor complexity.
Chicken Broth: Moisture-rich liquid that helps cook pasta and infuse additional savory undertones throughout the recipe.
Rotini Pasta: Spiral-shaped pasta perfect for trapping cheese and sauce, providing delightful texture and holding ingredients beautifully.
Provolone Cheese, Pepper Jack Cheese: Melty, creamy cheeses that deliver authentic Philly cheesesteak tanginess and spicy kick, creating irresistible richness.
Tools That Help Build Cheesesteak Pasta Easily
Large Skillet: Main cooking vessel for sautéing vegetables, browning meat, and combining ingredients.
Large Pot: Essential for boiling and cooking pasta to al dente perfection.
Cutting Board: Needed for slicing onions, bell peppers, and chopping herbs.
Sharp Knife: Used for precise vegetable and herb preparation.
Colander: Crucial for draining cooked pasta thoroughly.
Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Perfect for stirring and breaking up ground beef while cooking.
Measuring Spoons: Helps accurately measure salt and pepper.
Cheese Grater: Useful for shredding provolone and pepper jack cheese.
Broiler-Safe Skillet: Allows for final cheese melting and browning under high heat.
Oven Mitts: Protects hands when handling hot skillet from oven.
Cooking Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Step-by-Step
Kitchen Prep
Gather all your cooking tools and ingredients. Create a clean, organized workspace that makes cooking fun and easy.
Veggie Sizzle
Warm olive oil in a large skillet. Slice onions and bell peppers, then cook them until they turn soft and golden with a beautiful caramelized edge. Add garlic for an extra flavor boost.
Meat Magic
Brown ground beef in the same skillet, breaking it into small pieces. Season with salt and pepper to enhance the rich, savory taste.
Liquid Love
Pour chicken broth into the skillet, letting everything simmer and blend together. This creates a delicious base for your pasta dish.
Pasta Party
Cook rotini pasta until perfectly tender. Mix the pasta directly into the skillet, coating every piece with the flavorful sauce.
Cheese Heaven
Sprinkle provolone and pepper jack cheese over the top. Let the cheese melt and create a creamy, gooey layer that brings all the flavors together.
Final Touch
Broil briefly to create a golden, bubbly top. Garnish with fresh herbs for a pop of color and extra freshness. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Philly Cheesesteak Pasta!
Tips for Cheese and Steak Pasta Flavor
Try different cheese combinations like sharp cheddar, Swiss, or mozzarella to create unique flavor profiles that match your taste preferences.
Replace ground chuck with thinly sliced beef sirloin or shredded rotisserie chicken for a quick protein alternative that keeps the classic Philly cheesesteak spirit.
Incorporate additional vegetables like sliced mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini to enhance nutritional value and add extra texture to the pasta dish.
Kick the heat by adding red pepper flakes, jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce for those who enjoy a spicier version of this comfort food classic.
Prepare the entire dish in advance and store in the refrigerator. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth to maintain moisture and restore the creamy consistency.
Serve Cheesesteak Pasta for a Hearty Dinner
Comfort Food Companions: Perfect Pairings
Crisp garden salad with tangy vinaigrette adds refreshing contrast to the rich, cheesy pasta. The light greens balance the hearty meat and cheese flavors beautifully.
Garlic Bread Buddy: Sidekick
Toasted garlic bread slices become the ultimate companion, perfect for soaking up extra sauce and cheese. Crunchy edges and buttery center complement the pasta's creamy texture wonderfully.
Wine Wellness Pairing
Medium-bodied red wines like Cabernet Sauvignon or Zinfandel enhance the meaty, cheesy profile of this dish. Their robust character matches the bold flavors of the Philly Cheesesteak Pasta, creating a delightful dining experience.
Quick Freshness Finish
Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or green onions on top for a pop of color and bright, herbal notes. These garnishes provide a light, fresh counterpoint to the rich, indulgent pasta base.
Store and Reheat Philly Pasta the Right Way
Smart Storage Solutions
Chilled Container Strategy: Transfer leftover pasta to an airtight container and refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking. Keeps fresh for 3-4 days when sealed properly.
Freezer-Friendly Approach: Pack cooled pasta in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-lock bags. Stays delicious for up to 2 months without losing flavor quality.
Quick Reheating Technique: Warm refrigerated pasta in microwave using medium power, stirring every 30 seconds. Add splash of chicken broth to restore moisture and prevent dryness.
Ingredient Separation Trick: Store cheese and pasta separately if preparing ahead to maintain optimal texture and prevent soggy results when reheating.
Hearty Philly cheesesteak pasta blends classic sandwich flavors with comforting noodle textures. Rich beef, melted provolone, and caramelized peppers create a satisfying meal you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
1 lb (454 g) ground chuck
1 large yellow onion (halved, sliced ½-inch thick)
1 medium red bell pepper (halved, sliced ½-inch thick)
1 clove garlic (minced)
8 oz (227 g) dry rotini pasta
2 cans low-sodium chicken broth (14.5 oz or 411 g each)
1 ½ cups shredded provolone cheese (divided)
1 ½ cups shredded pepper jack cheese (divided)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp kosher salt (divided)
½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
Caramelize Aromatics: Sizzle yellow onions and red bell peppers in olive oil over medium heat for 10-15 minutes until deeply golden. Introduce minced garlic in the final minute to elevate the aromatic foundation.
Brown the Protein: Create a central cooking zone in the skillet, add ground chuck, and crumble while cooking 5-6 minutes. Season generously with salt and black pepper, ensuring thorough coverage and even cooking.
Pasta Preparation: Boil salted water and cook rotini until perfectly al dente. Drain completely, setting aside for later incorporation into the robust mixture.
Flavor Development: Stream chicken broth into the meat and vegetable mixture. Reduce heat and allow ingredients to meld together during a gentle 5-minute simmer, intensifying the overall flavor profile.
Cheese Integration: Fold drained pasta into the skillet, coating thoroughly. Sprinkle provolone and pepper jack cheese, gently folding until completely melted and harmoniously blended.
Final Broil and Finish: If skillet is oven-safe, top with additional cheese. Broil on high for 2-3 minutes until cheese transforms into a bubbling, golden-brown crust. Rest for 3-4 minutes to allow flavors to settle.
Serving Presentation: Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions. Plate alongside toasted garlic bread, ensuring each serving captures the essence of a Philly Cheesesteak in pasta form.
Notes
Caramelize Veggies Slowly: Take time to sauté onions and peppers, allowing natural sugars to develop rich, deep flavor without burning.
Choose Quality Ground Beef: Select chuck with good fat content to ensure juicy, flavorful meat that mimics authentic Philly cheesesteak texture.
Cheese Melting Technique: Use a blend of provolone and pepper jack for complex flavor, folding gently to create creamy, even cheese distribution.
Broiler Timing Matters: Watch cheese topping closely during final 2-3 minutes to achieve golden-brown crust without burning.
Founder, Head Recipe Developer & Cuisine Specialist
Expertise
Recipe Development and Testing, Modern American and European Cuisines, Food Styling and Photography, Culinary Education and Workshops
Education
Johnson & Wales University
Degree: Bachelor of Science in Culinary Arts
Focus: Comprehensive training in classical and modern cooking techniques, kitchen management, and global cuisines.
Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts
Program: Diploma in Pastry Arts
Focus: Specialized education in baking and pastry, emphasizing artisanal bread, confections, and plated desserts.
Michael Reynolds is the founder and head recipe creator at wd-50.com. With over 15 years of experience in the kitchen, he’s spent time working in top restaurants and now focuses on making great food easy for everyone at home.
Michael studied culinary arts at Johnson & Wales University and later trained in pastry at the Auguste Escoffier School. He knows his way around both savory meals and sweet treats.
At wd-50.com, his goal is to help you feel confident in the kitchen, whether you’re trying something new or cooking a favorite dish. He loves using fresh ingredients and simple steps that still bring out big flavors.
Michael Reynolds
Founder, Head Recipe Developer & Cuisine Specialist
Expertise
Recipe Development and Testing, Modern American and European Cuisines, Food Styling and Photography, Culinary Education and Workshops
Education
Johnson & Wales University
Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts
Michael Reynolds is the founder and head recipe creator at wd-50.com. With over 15 years of experience in the kitchen, he’s spent time working in top restaurants and now focuses on making great food easy for everyone at home.
Michael studied culinary arts at Johnson & Wales University and later trained in pastry at the Auguste Escoffier School. He knows his way around both savory meals and sweet treats.
At wd-50.com, his goal is to help you feel confident in the kitchen, whether you’re trying something new or cooking a favorite dish. He loves using fresh ingredients and simple steps that still bring out big flavors.