Get ready to experience the perfect marriage of two beloved comfort foods – the iconic Philly cheesesteak and creamy pasta! This Philly Cheesesteak Pasta brings together tender strips of beef, caramelized onions, and colorful bell peppers, all tossed with al dente pasta and smothered in a rich, cheesy sauce.
This weeknight wonder transforms the handheld sandwich into a hearty, family-style dish that’s sure to become a regular request at your dinner table. It’s the ultimate comfort food mashup that delivers all those classic Philly flavors in every forkful.
Why You’ll Love This
- One-pot wonder that minimizes cleanup while maximizing flavor
- Ready in just 45 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights
- Kid-friendly twist on a classic sandwich that the whole family will enjoy
- Versatile recipe that works with different pasta shapes and protein options
- Leftovers taste even better the next day as flavors continue to meld
Ingredients
- 10 ounces rigatoni pasta
- 1 pound ground beef
- 8 ounces fresh mushrooms, sliced
- 1 large green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk or half-and-half
- 1 cup provolone cheese, diced or shredded
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Cook rigatoni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with salt and pepper, breaking it up as it cooks. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté the sliced mushrooms, chopped bell pepper, and onion until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to form a roux and cook for 1 minute. Gradually stir in milk, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
- Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the provolone cheese until completely melted and smooth.
- Add the cooked pasta, ground beef, and sautéed vegetables to the cheese sauce. Toss everything together until well coated.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh chopped parsley for color and flavor.
Tips & Variations
- For a budget-friendly option, substitute ribeye with sirloin or ground beef
- Add mushrooms for an extra layer of flavor and authenticity
- Try different cheese combinations – American cheese or a mix of provolone and mozzarella work great
- Make it spicy by adding sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce
- For a lighter version, use whole wheat pasta and reduced-fat cream cheese
- Prep ahead by slicing meat and vegetables the night before to save time
Serving Suggestions
This hearty pasta dish is a meal in itself, but pairs beautifully with a simple side salad dressed with vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a true Philadelphia experience, serve with a side of garlic bread or toasted hoagie rolls to soak up every last bit of that delicious cheese sauce.
If you’re entertaining, consider setting up a topping bar with extra cheese, hot peppers, and fresh herbs so everyone can customize their bowl.
Notes
- Partially freeze the steak for about 20 minutes before slicing to make it easier to cut into thin strips
- The sauce will thicken as it stands – if it gets too thick, add a splash of milk or broth
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
- Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk to restore creaminess
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the components separately and assemble before serving. Cook the pasta and store it separately from the sauce and meat mixture, then combine and reheat when ready to serve.
What’s the best cut of beef to use?
Ribeye is traditional for Philly cheesesteaks because of its marbling and flavor, but sirloin, flank steak, or even ground beef will work well in this recipe.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the beef with portobello mushrooms, use vegetable broth instead of beef broth, and proceed with the recipe as written for a delicious vegetarian version.
What if I don’t have provolone cheese?
While provolone gives the most authentic Philly cheesesteak flavor, you can substitute with white American cheese, mozzarella, or a combination of your favorite melting cheeses.
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