Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Skillet: A Quick & Easy Comfort Food Recipe

If you’re a fan of the classic Philly cheesesteak, you’re going to love this Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Skillet recipe! Combining the rich, savory flavors of a Philly cheesesteak sandwich with the comforting, cheesy goodness of pasta, this dish brings the best of both worlds together. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner that’s both satisfying and full of flavor, and can be made in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe and explore how you can recreate this delicious dish at home.

What is Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Skillet?

Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Skillet is a savory, hearty dish inspired by the famous Philly cheesesteak sandwich. Instead of the traditional hoagie roll, you use pasta as the base. Ground beef or thinly sliced steak (like ribeye or sirloin) is cooked with bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, and garlic, then combined with a creamy, flavorful sauce made from beef broth and heavy cream. Finally, shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese (or a combination of both) is melted on top, just like the gooey cheese on a cheesesteak. It’s comfort food at its finest, and it’s quick and easy to prepare.

The beauty of this dish is its versatility. You can use ground beef or thinly sliced steak depending on what you prefer, and the combination of veggies and cheeses ensures every bite is packed with flavor. Whether you’re craving the savory bite of a Philly cheesesteak or just looking for a new pasta dish, this recipe has it all.

Ingredients for Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Skillet

Here are the key ingredients you’ll need for this delicious pasta skillet dish:

• 12 oz (340g) penne or rotini pasta: The pasta is the base of the dish, and penne or rotini works perfectly for holding the creamy sauce and toppings.
• 1 lb ground beef or thinly sliced steak (ribeye or sirloin): This is the main protein of the dish. You can choose between ground beef for a more traditional approach, or go with sliced steak for that authentic Philly cheesesteak experience.
• 1 tbsp olive oil (if using steak): You’ll need olive oil to sear the steak if you’re using it instead of ground beef.
• 1 small onion, diced: The onion adds a sweet and savory flavor to the dish.
• 1 green bell pepper, diced: A classic addition that adds color and crunch.
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (optional): Mushrooms add an earthy flavor, but they are optional if you prefer a simpler dish.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic gives the dish an aromatic and savory depth.
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce: A key ingredient that adds an extra layer of umami flavor.
• ½ tsp salt: To season the dish and bring out all the flavors.
• ½ tsp black pepper: For a little heat and seasoning.
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that complements the flavors of the dish.
• 1 ½ cups beef broth: Adds depth and richness to the sauce.
• 1 cup heavy cream: This creamy base helps create a luscious, smooth sauce that coats the pasta perfectly.
• 1 cup shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese: These cheeses give that classic cheesesteak cheesy finish.
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese: For a bit of sharpness and added creaminess.
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional): If you like a little heat, red pepper flakes can be added for a spicy kick.

Instructions for Making Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Skillet

Here’s how you can make this Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Skillet step by step:

1. Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside. Remember to reserve about ¼ cup of the pasta water for later—this will help make the sauce a bit creamier.

2. Cook the Beef & Vegetables

Next, heat a large skillet over medium heat. If you’re using ground beef, cook it in the skillet until browned. For steak, heat a tablespoon of olive oil first, then sear the steak slices until cooked through. Once the beef or steak is ready, add the diced onion, bell pepper, mushrooms (if using), and minced garlic. Sauté the veggies for 3-4 minutes until they soften and become aromatic.

3. Make the Sauce

Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine everything into a creamy sauce. Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly.

4. Combine & Melt Cheese

Now, add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together so the pasta is coated with the sauce. Sprinkle the provolone and cheddar cheese on top. Cover the skillet and let it sit for about 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts into a gooey, cheesy layer.

5. Serve & Enjoy

Once the cheese has melted, your Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Skillet is ready to serve. If you like a little heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes on top. Serve it warm and enjoy the deliciousness of a Philly cheesesteak in a new, comforting form.

Serving Suggestions

To make this dish even more enjoyable, here are a few serving suggestions:

• Pair it with a side salad: A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the pasta skillet.
• Serve with garlic bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread complements the creamy pasta and adds some texture to the meal.
• Add sautéed mushrooms or jalapeños: If you’re a fan of extra flavor, sauté some mushrooms or toss in a few sliced jalapeños for a bit of heat.

Why You’ll Love Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Skillet

This Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Skillet is everything you love about Philly cheesesteaks but in pasta form. It’s:

• Quick and easy: With just a few ingredients and a one-pan method, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Comforting: The rich, creamy sauce and melted cheese make this meal irresistibly comforting.
• Customizable: You can adjust the protein, veggies, and level of spice to fit your taste preferences.
• Perfectly cheesy: Who can resist the melty, gooey cheese that’s a hallmark of any good Philly cheesesteak?

FAQs About Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Skillet

Q1: Can I use other types of cheese for this dish? Absolutely! While provolone and cheddar are traditional choices for a Philly cheesesteak, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or even American cheese for a more authentic cheesesteak flavor.

Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat it on the stove and add a little extra cream or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.

Q3: Can I make this dish vegetarian? Yes, you can substitute the beef with plant-based protein, like tempeh, tofu, or a meat substitute like Beyond Meat. Just be sure to adjust the seasonings accordingly to maintain the rich flavor.

Q4: What’s the best pasta to use for Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Skillet? Penne, rotini, or any short pasta works best for this dish since it holds the sauce and cheese well. You can also use spaghetti or linguine if you prefer.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Skillet is a crowd-pleasing dish that combines the savory goodness of a Philly cheesesteak with the comforting richness of pasta. With simple ingredients and a quick cooking time, this dish is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering. The creamy sauce, melted cheese, and savory beef and veggies come together in one skillet for a delicious and satisfying meal that will have everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy this recipe and bring the flavors of Philly right to your kitchen!

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