Philly Cheesesteak Pasta

Indulge in the comforting flavors of Philly Cheesesteak Pasta, a delightful dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings. This recipe combines the classic elements of a Philly cheesesteak—ground beef, savory vegetables, and creamy provolone cheese—with hearty rigatoni pasta. It’s an easy-to-make meal that is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.

PIN THIS!PIN THIS!

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Pasta
• For the Beef & Vegetables
• For the Cheese Sauce
• For Garnish
• How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
• Step 1: Cook the Pasta
• Step 2: Cook the Beef
• Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
• Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce
• Step 5: Combine the Ingredients
• Step 6: Assemble and Serve
• How to Serve Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
• Family Style
• Individual Plates
• With Garlic Bread
• Salad Pairing
• Topped with Extra Cheese
• How to Perfect Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
• Best Side Dishes for Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
• Reheating Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What makes Philly Cheesesteak Pasta different from traditional cheesesteaks?
• Can I customize my Philly Cheesesteak Pasta?
• Is Philly Cheesesteak Pasta suitable for meal prep?
• How do I make this dish vegetarian?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of ground beef, mushrooms, and provolone cheese creates a rich and satisfying taste that everyone will enjoy.
• Quick Preparation: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this dish is ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize by adding your favorite veggies or substituting the meat for chicken or turkey.
• One-Pot Meal: Minimal cleanup is required since most cooking happens in one skillet, making it convenient for busy cooks.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love this creamy pasta dish, making it a hit at the dinner table.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, gather all necessary tools to streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet (large)
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Colander

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling the rigatoni pasta to perfection.
• Skillet (large): Ideal for sautéing the beef and vegetables evenly while allowing enough space for all ingredients.
• Whisk: Perfect for combining the ingredients in your cheese sauce smoothly without lumps.

Ingredients

For this Philly Cheesesteak Pasta recipe, you’ll need:

For the Pasta

• 10 ounces rigatoni pasta

For the Beef & Vegetables

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 8 ounces fresh mushrooms, thinly sliced
• 1 large green bell pepper, finely chopped
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Cheese Sauce

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup half-and-half
• 1 cup provolone cheese, diced or shredded

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

PIN THIS!

How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Beef

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the ground beef, season with salt and pepper.
3. Cook until browned and no pink remains.
4. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

1. In the same skillet, add mushrooms, bell pepper, and onion.
2. Cook over medium heat until softened and moisture has evaporated.
3. Stir in minced garlic; cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Remove from heat; set aside.

Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce

1. In a separate skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Sprinkle in flour; whisk continuously for 1 minute to form a smooth roux.
3. Slowly whisk in milk and half-and-half; stir frequently.
4. Simmer for 4-6 minutes or until thickened.

Step 5: Combine the Ingredients

1. Remove sauce from heat; stir in provolone cheese until melted and smooth.
2. Add cooked pasta along with half of the beef and vegetable mixture; toss to coat evenly.

Step 6: Assemble and Serve

1. Transfer pasta to a serving dish.
2. Top with remaining beef and vegetable mixture.
3. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!

How to Serve Philly Cheesesteak Pasta

Serving Philly Cheesesteak Pasta can be both fun and creative. This dish not only looks delicious but also offers various ways to enjoy it. Here are some serving suggestions that will elevate your dining experience.

Family Style

• Serve the pasta in a large bowl for a communal feel, allowing everyone to help themselves.

Individual Plates

• Plate the pasta in individual portions, topped with extra cheese for a more refined presentation.

With Garlic Bread

• Pair the pasta with warm garlic bread on the side, perfect for scooping up the cheesy sauce.

Salad Pairing

• Serve alongside a fresh salad to balance the richness of the dish, such as a simple Caesar or garden salad.

Topped with Extra Cheese

• Finish each serving with an additional sprinkle of provolone cheese for those who crave an extra cheesy bite.

How to Perfect Philly Cheesesteak Pasta

To achieve the best version of your Philly Cheesesteak Pasta, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Quality Ingredients – Fresh vegetables and high-quality provolone cheese make a big difference in flavor.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta – Cook rigatoni until al dente to ensure it holds its shape and texture when mixed with the sauce.
• Adjust Seasoning Carefully – Taste as you go; adding salt and pepper gradually helps you find the right balance.
• Let It Rest – Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking lets flavors meld together beautifully.

PIN THIS!

Best Side Dishes for Philly Cheesesteak Pasta

Complement your Philly Cheesesteak Pasta with these tasty side dishes that enhance your meal. Each option adds variety and flavor to your dinner table.

1. Garlic Bread – Crispy on the outside and soft inside, perfect for mopping up sauce.
2. Caesar Salad – A classic salad with crunchy romaine, croutons, and creamy dressing that pairs well.
3. Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli provides a nutritious contrast to the creamy pasta.
4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – These add earthy flavors and crispy texture to balance out rich dishes.
5. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw brings crunch and acidity, making it a refreshing side choice.
6. French Fries – Crispy fries can be a fun addition; try them with garlic aioli or ketchup for dipping.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many home cooks make simple mistakes when preparing Philly Cheesesteak Pasta. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

• Using Overcooked Pasta: Always cook the rigatoni al dente. Overcooked pasta can become mushy and won’t hold up well in the dish.
• Not Seasoning Properly: Ensure you season the beef and vegetables adequately with salt and pepper. This enhances the overall flavor of your Philly Cheesesteak Pasta.
• Skipping the Cheese Sauce: Don’t rush the cheese sauce preparation. Allow it to thicken properly for a creamy consistency that clings to the pasta.
• Ignoring Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh vegetables like bell peppers and mushrooms makes a significant difference in flavor. Avoid canned or frozen options for the best results.
• Not Combining Ingredients Well: Make sure to toss the pasta with the sauce and meat mixture thoroughly. This ensures every bite is packed with flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Ensure the pasta has cooled down before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Philly Cheesesteak Pasta

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• For best results, portion out servings before freezing so you can easily reheat only what you need.

Reheating Philly Cheesesteak Pasta

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pasta in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place a single serving in a microwave-safe bowl and cover. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through until hot.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of milk or water and stir in the pasta until heated evenly.

PIN THIS!

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Philly Cheesesteak Pasta different from traditional cheesesteaks?

Philly Cheesesteak Pasta combines all the classic ingredients of a cheesesteak into a creamy pasta dish, offering a unique twist on this beloved sandwich.

Can I customize my Philly Cheesesteak Pasta?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach or swap out provolone cheese for mozzarella if desired.

Is Philly Cheesesteak Pasta suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This dish stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it an excellent option for meal prep throughout the week.

How do I make this dish vegetarian?

You can substitute ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or sautéed mushrooms as a hearty replacement while keeping all other ingredients the same.

Final Thoughts

Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting spice levels. Give this dish a try; it’s perfect for family dinners or quick weeknight meals!