Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Bake

This Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is pure comfort in a bowl bringing together all the flavors of the classic sandwich with the cozy ease of a weeknight pasta dinner Creamy savory and every bite is loaded with steak peppers onions and melty provolone so everyone at the table keeps asking for seconds

I first tested this recipe on a busy weeknight when we were craving cheesesteaks but needed something heartier It was such a hit that now my teenagers always request it after a long day

Ingredients

• Ground beef or steak strips: use steak strips for authentic flavor and tenderness choose well marbled cuts
• Green bell pepper diced: brings color and a sweet peppery bite pick a firm and glossy pepper
• Onion diced: adds sweetness and depth go for yellow or white onions with tight skin
• Garlic minced: offers bold aromatic flavor use fresh cloves for the best taste
• Cream cheese softened: creates a silky base opt for full fat for extra richness
• Provolone cheese shredded: delivers gooey melt and mild tangy flavor get block cheese and shred it yourself
• Pasta penne or rigatoni: holds sauce well choose good quality dried pasta for texture
• Beef broth: deepens the umami choose low sodium for better control of salt
• Salt and pepper to taste: enhances all the flavors use kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper if possible
• Olive oil: helps brown the veggies choose extra virgin for subtle fruitiness

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Pasta:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the pasta Cook until just al dente so the noodles hold up well in the sauce then drain and set aside

Sauté the Vegetables:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat Add diced green bell pepper onion and minced garlic Cook everything slowly for about four to five minutes stirring often until the vegetables become soft and you can smell the garlic

Cook the Meat:

Add the ground beef or steak strips into the pan Break up any large pieces of beef and cook thoroughly for several minutes until no pink remains and the meat is starting to brown Season generously with salt and pepper

Combine Ingredients:

Drop in the softened cream cheese and pour in the beef broth Stir constantly over medium heat until the cream cheese melts completely and you have a creamy smooth sauce mingling with the meat and veggies

Top with Cheese and Broil:

Add the cooked pasta directly to the skillet and toss it until every piece is coated in the creamy sauce Sprinkle the top with shredded provolone cheese Distribute the cheese evenly then place the skillet under the broiler Watch closely in the oven for three to five minutes just until the cheese melts bubbles and turns golden

Serve:

Remove the skillet from the oven Use a big spoon to dish out the pasta while piping hot Serve right away for that perfect creamy texture

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Cream cheese is my secret for silky texture and subtle tang and my kids always joke that this is “the only way” to get them to eat green peppers One snowy night we played board games while it baked and now it is our go to family comfort recipe

Storage Tips

To keep leftovers fresh place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days For best results reheat gently in the microwave or oven with a splash of beef broth to loosen up the sauce before serving

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have provolone cheese you can use mozzarella or even a mild white cheddar For more veggie power swap in red or yellow bell peppers or toss in sliced mushrooms for extra earthiness Ground chicken or turkey also work well if you want a lighter version

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Serving Suggestions

Serve this hearty pasta with a crisp green salad or steamed broccoli to lighten the meal For extra richness sprinkle crushed red pepper or hot sauce on top and add a few slices of toasted baguette to soak up every drop of sauce

Cultural Context

Inspired by the Philly cheesesteak sandwich this dish swaps bread for pasta while keeping the flavors of grilled steak onions peppers and cheese I love how this recipe brings a little Philly spirit to the dinner table and everyone enjoys the twist on a classic

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use steak strips instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Steak strips offer a richer, more authentic flavor reminiscent of classic Philly style.

→ Is there a substitute for provolone cheese?

Mozzarella or Monterey Jack can be used if provolone isn't available, though flavor may vary slightly.

→ What type of pasta works best?

Penne or rigatoni are recommended as their shapes hold the creamy sauce and beef well.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Place cooled pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, swapping green bell pepper for red or yellow, or adding mushrooms, can bring a sweeter, deeper taste.