Introduction
Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is a comfort-food fusion dish that brings together the bold, savory flavors of the classic Philadelphia cheesesteak and the hearty appeal of pasta. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with seasoned beef and peppers, it’s an easy, satisfying meal the whole family will love.
Origin
The iconic Philly cheesesteak originated in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in the 1930s. This pasta adaptation emerged from modern American home cooking, where traditional favorites are reimagined into one-pan, crowd-pleasing meals that deliver familiar flavors in a new format.
Cultural Significance
This dish reflects contemporary comfort cooking, blending regional American classics with convenient pasta-based meals. It’s especially popular for weeknight dinners, potlucks, and casual gatherings where bold flavors and hearty portions are welcome.
Ingredients Quantity (Serves 4–6)
Pasta & Meat
- Pasta (penne or rotini): 12 oz (340 g)
- Thinly sliced beef (sirloin, ribeye, or shaved steak): 1 lb (450 g)
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
Vegetables
- Onion (sliced): 1 large
- Green bell pepper (sliced): 1 large
- Mushrooms (optional): 8 oz (225 g)
Sauce
- Garlic (minced): 3 cloves
- Beef broth: 1½ cups (360 ml)
- Heavy cream: 1 cup (240 ml)
- Worcestershire sauce: 1 tablespoon
- Cream cheese: 4 oz (115 g)
- Provolone cheese (shredded): 1½ cups (170 g)
- Salt and black pepper: to taste
Optional Additions
- Red or yellow bell peppers
- Mozzarella for extra melt
- Crushed red pepper flakes
- Steak seasoning blend
- Caramelized onions for sweetness
Tips for Success
- Slice beef very thin for tenderness.
- Cook pasta just to al dente so it holds the sauce well.
- Soften vegetables fully for authentic cheesesteak flavor.
- Add cheese gradually to prevent clumping.
- Serve immediately for best texture.
Instructions
- Cook Pasta:
- Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook Beef:
- Heat oil in a large skillet; sear beef quickly until just cooked. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, cook onions, peppers, and mushrooms until soft. Add garlic and cook briefly.
- Make Sauce:
- Add broth, Worcestershire sauce, cream, and cream cheese. Stir until smooth and slightly thickened.
- Combine:
- Return beef to skillet, add pasta, and stir in provolone cheese until melted.
- Serve:
- Season to taste and serve hot.
Description
Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is rich, savory, and ultra-creamy, with tender beef, sweet peppers, and gooey cheese coating every bite of pasta.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 560–620 kcal
- Protein: 34–38 g
- Fat: 30–34 g
- Carbohydrates: 40–45 g
- Fiber: 2–3 g
- Sodium: moderate to high
Conclusion
This dish is a fun, flavorful twist on a beloved classic, combining everything people love about cheesesteaks in an easy, comforting pasta form.
Recommendation
Serve with a simple green salad or garlic bread. Leftovers reheat well and make a great next-day lunch.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
Lighten the dish by using lean beef, reduced-fat cheese, or whole-grain pasta while keeping the bold cheesesteak flavor intact.