Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is a comforting, hearty dish that combines the best of both worlds—your favorite Philly cheesesteak ingredients paired with pasta for an irresistible, cheesy meal. The savory ground beef, sautéed vegetables, and rich provolone cheese come together in a thick, flavorful sauce that coats every bite of penne pasta. Whether you’re craving a delicious twist on a classic or simply want a filling meal, this Philly Cheesesteak Pasta will surely satisfy your taste buds.
Ingredients
1 ½ pounds of lean ground beef
Ground beef provides the meaty base for this dish, offering richness and flavor reminiscent of a traditional Philly cheesesteak.
1 yellow onion, chopped
Onions add a sweet, savory depth to the dish and caramelize as they cook, enhancing the overall flavor.
2 tbsp butter
Butter is used to sauté the vegetables and create a rich, flavorful base for the sauce.
1 small can sliced mushrooms, drained
Mushrooms contribute an earthy flavor and a soft, tender texture that complements the beef and vegetables.
1 green pepper, chopped
Green peppers add a slight crunch and a fresh, slightly bitter taste that balances the richness of the dish.
1 can French onion soup mix
French onion soup mix brings an instant burst of flavor, adding a savory, onion-based broth that enhances the overall sauce.
⅓ pound Provolone cheese, cut into small cubes
Provolone cheese melts beautifully, adding the creamy, cheesy component that makes this dish feel like a true Philly cheesesteak.
8 ounces penne pasta, cooked according to package directions
Penne pasta serves as the perfect base, its tubular shape holding the flavorful sauce and ingredients in each bite.
Salt and pepper to taste
Salt and pepper are essential for seasoning the dish, bringing all the flavors together and ensuring the meal is well-balanced.
1 tbsp cornstarch
Cornstarch is used to thicken the sauce, creating a rich and creamy consistency that clings to the pasta.
2 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce
Worcestershire sauce adds a tangy, umami flavor, giving the sauce an extra layer of depth and richness.
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by cooking the penne pasta according to the package directions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside. This will be the base that absorbs all the savory goodness from the sauce.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, crumble and brown the ground beef over medium heat. Cook until the beef is fully browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Once browned, drain the excess fat from the meat and transfer it to a clean dish. Set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the butter and let it melt over medium heat. Once melted, add the sliced mushrooms to the pan and cook until they become tender, about 5 minutes. Next, add the chopped green pepper and yellow onion. Continue sautéing until the vegetables soften and the onions become translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 4: Add the Flavorings
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the Worcestershire sauce, followed by the can of French onion soup. Mix well, ensuring that the soup is fully incorporated with the vegetables.
Step 5: Thicken the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry. Add this mixture to the skillet, whisking continuously until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes. The sauce should now be creamy and velvety.
Step 6: Combine the Beef and Pasta
Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet and stir to combine with the sauce and vegetables. Add the cooked and drained penne pasta, tossing everything together so the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
Step 7: Add the Provolone Cheese
Finally, toss in the cubed provolone cheese, stirring gently to combine. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the cheese melt, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 8: Season and Serve
Season the dish with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning to your liking. Once the cheese has melted and everything is well combined, serve the Philly Cheesesteak Pasta in bowls and enjoy!
Tips and Variations
- Make it Spicy: For an extra kick, add some sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the skillet when sautéing the vegetables. This will bring some heat to balance the richness of the cheese.
- Meat Substitution: If you prefer a different protein, feel free to substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat for a lighter or vegetarian option.
- Add More Veggies: Consider adding additional vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or even mushrooms to increase the nutritional value of the dish and add more textures.
- Cheese Variations: While provolone cheese is traditional for a Philly cheesesteak, you can also use mozzarella, cheddar, or a combination of cheeses for a unique twist on this recipe.
- Make it Gluten-Free: Swap out the penne pasta for gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer. While penne works great for holding the sauce, you could also use rigatoni, fusilli, or even spaghetti if that’s what you have on hand.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can make it ahead and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.
Can I freeze Philly Cheesesteak Pasta?
Yes, this dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply swap out the ground beef for a plant-based meat substitute like Beyond Meat or use extra mushrooms and veggies for added texture and flavor.
Conclusion
Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is a delicious, comforting dish that brings together all the flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak in a pasta form. With savory ground beef, sautéed onions, peppers, and mushrooms, and a rich, cheesy sauce, this meal is sure to please everyone at the table. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish is guaranteed to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.