Thinly shaved ribeye gives you a very classic cheesesteak-style flavor.
You can also use shaved sirloin, flank steak sliced very thinly against the grain, or prepared shaved steak.
Pasta
Penne is my favorite because all those little ridges hold onto the cheesy sauce.
But you can use:
- Rotini
- Rigatoni
- Cavatappi
- Bow ties
- Shells
- Elbows
Cheese
Provolone gives the dish that unmistakable cheesesteak character.
Mozzarella makes the sauce extra stretchy and melty.
You can also add a little white American cheese for an even more cheesesteak-inspired flavor.
Bell Peppers
Green peppers are classic, but adding red bell pepper brings a little extra sweetness and color.
If you don't like peppers, simply leave them out and add more onions.
Cream Cheese
Cream cheese helps create a rich, creamy sauce.
For a lighter sauce, reduce the amount or substitute a little extra milk and shredded cheese.
Mushrooms
Sliced mushrooms are an excellent addition.
Cook them with the onions and peppers until golden and tender.
Spicy Version
Add sliced jalapeños or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.
A little hot sauce also works beautifully.
How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook the pasta according to the package directions until just al dente.
Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of pasta water.
Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Don't rinse it.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the thinly sliced beef.
Season with salt and black pepper.
Cook for about 3–5 minutes, breaking the beef apart as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
Add the Worcestershire sauce and stir.
Transfer the beef to a plate and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Vegetables
Add the butter to the same skillet.
Add the sliced onion and bell peppers.
Cook for about 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and beginning to caramelize.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30–60 seconds.
Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium.
Add the remaining butter.
Once melted, sprinkle in the flour.
Whisk continuously for about 1 minute.
Slowly pour in the beef broth and milk while whisking.
Keep stirring until the mixture begins to thicken.
Step 5: Add the Cheese
Reduce the heat to low.
Add the cream cheese, provolone, and mozzarella.
Stir until the cheese melts into a smooth, creamy sauce.
If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
Step 6: Bring Everything Together
Return the cooked beef to the skillet.
Add the cooked pasta and Italian seasoning.
Gently stir everything together until the pasta is completely coated in the sauce.
Cook for another 2–3 minutes over low heat.
Step 7: Taste and Adjust
Taste before serving.
Add more salt or pepper if necessary.
If you want more cheesesteak flavor, add another small splash of Worcestershire sauce.
Step 8: Finish With Cheese
Sprinkle a little extra provolone or mozzarella over the top.
Cover the skillet for a minute or two to let the cheese melt.
Garnish with parsley if desired.
And that's it!
Dinner is ready.
Tips for the Best Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
Slice the Beef Thinly
Thin slices cook quickly and give you that classic cheesesteak texture.
If you're slicing your own steak, placing it in the freezer for about 15–20 minutes first can make it easier to slice thinly.
Don't Crowd the Beef
If your skillet is too crowded, the beef may steam instead of brown.
Cook it in batches if necessary.
Those browned edges add so much flavor.
Cook the Vegetables Until Tender
Don't rush the onions and peppers.
Give them enough time to soften and develop a little color.
That's where a lot of the flavor comes from.
Keep the Heat Low When Adding Cheese
Very high heat can cause cheese sauces to become greasy or grainy.
Once you're adding the cheese, lower the heat and stir gently.
Reserve Pasta Water
This little trick is worth remembering.
Starchy pasta water can loosen the sauce while helping it cling to the noodles.
Can You Make Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Ahead?
Yes.
You can prepare the entire dish ahead of time and refrigerate it in an airtight container.
However, the pasta will absorb some of the sauce as it sits.
When reheating, add a splash of milk or beef broth to bring the creamy texture back.
How to Store Leftovers
Allow the pasta to cool before transferring it to an airtight container.
Refrigerate for up to 3–4 days.
For individual portions, reheat gently in the microwave, stirring halfway through.
Add a splash of milk or broth if the sauce has thickened.
For larger portions, reheat slowly in a skillet over low heat.
Can You Freeze Philly Cheesesteak Pasta?
You can freeze it, although creamy pasta dishes can change texture slightly after thawing.
For the best result, cool the pasta completely and store it in a freezer-safe airtight container.
Freeze for up to 2 months.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently with a splash of milk or broth.
If you're specifically making this recipe for the freezer, slightly undercook the pasta so it doesn't become overly soft after reheating.
What to Serve With Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
This is a hearty meal all by itself, but a simple side can round things out.
Garlic Bread
A warm piece of garlic bread is perfect for scooping up any extra cheesy sauce left in the bowl.
Simple Green Salad
A crisp salad with lettuce, cucumber, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds freshness to the rich pasta.
Roasted Vegetables
Try:
- Broccoli
- Green beans
- Brussels sprouts
- Asparagus
Pickles
Don't overlook this one!
The tangy crunch of a pickle can cut through the richness of the cheesy pasta beautifully.
Perfect for a Family Dinner
This recipe has everything I want from a weeknight meal.
It's filling.
It's comforting.
It doesn't require a dozen complicated steps.
And the whole family can customize it.
Someone wants mushrooms?
Add them.
Someone loves extra cheese?
Go for it.
Want a little heat?
Add some peppers.
Want to keep it simple?
Beef, onions, peppers, pasta, and cheese are all you really need.
Anything but boring!!
Frequently Asked Questions
What cut of beef is best for Philly Cheesesteak Pasta?
Thinly sliced ribeye is an excellent choice because it's flavorful and tender. Shaved steak or thinly sliced sirloin also work well.
Can I use ground beef?
Absolutely. Ground beef makes this recipe especially easy and budget-friendly. Brown about 1 pound of ground beef and continue with the recipe as written.
What cheese is best for Philly cheesesteak pasta?
Provolone is the classic choice for cheesesteak flavor. Mozzarella adds excellent melting quality, while white American cheese can create an especially creamy, traditional-inspired result.
Can I use jarred Alfredo sauce?
You can, but homemade cheese sauce gives you much better control over the flavor and consistency.
If you're in a hurry, however, a good Alfredo sauce can make this a very quick dinner.
Can I add mushrooms?
Yes! Sauté sliced mushrooms with the onions and peppers until browned and tender.
Can I make it spicy?
Definitely. Add jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or your favorite spicy seasoning.
Why is my cheese sauce grainy?
The heat may be too high, or the cheese may have been added too quickly. Keep the heat low when adding cheese and stir until just melted.
Can I use leftover steak?
Yes. Thinly slice cooked leftover steak and add it toward the end so it doesn't become overcooked.
A Cozy Twist on a Classic
There is something so satisfying about taking a familiar favorite and turning it into something completely different.
A Philly cheesesteak is already one of those meals that doesn't need much to be delicious.
Beef.
Onions.
Peppers.
Cheese.
Now put all of that into a skillet with tender pasta and a creamy sauce.
Suddenly, you've got a dinner that's just as comforting but a little more substantial.
And the best part is that you don't need to build individual sandwiches for everyone.
One skillet.
One big bowl of cheesy pasta.
Everyone serves themselves.
That's my kind of weeknight dinner!
More Comforting Pasta Recipes to Try
If you're craving more hearty pasta dinners, try:
- Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta
- Old-Fashioned Chicken Tetrazzini
- Creamy Beef and Mushroom Pasta
- Cheesy Taco Pasta
- One-Pot Sausage Pasta
- Baked Ziti
- Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
- Cheeseburger Pasta
These are the recipes I reach for when I want something cozy, filling, and guaranteed to make the kitchen smell amazing.
Did You Make This Recipe?
If you make this Philly Cheesesteak Pasta, I'd love to hear what you think!
Leave a review and tell me what cheese you used, whether you added mushrooms, and if you made it spicy.
And if you take a photo of your skillet before everyone digs in, share it on Pinterest. I love seeing your versions of these recipes!
Nutritional Information
Approximate nutrition per serving, based on 6 servings:
- Calories: 650
- Protein: 35 g
- Fat: 31 g
- Carbohydrates: 61 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Sugar: 7 g
- Sodium: 850 mg
Nutrition will vary depending on the cut of beef, pasta, cheese, and other ingredients used.
Final Thoughts
Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is the kind of recipe that proves comfort food doesn't have to be complicated.
You get tender beef, sweet sautéed onions, colorful peppers, creamy cheese sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta all in one skillet.
It's hearty enough for a hungry family, easy enough for a weeknight, and flexible enough to customize with your favorite cheesesteak toppings.
And that cheesy sauce?
Don't be surprised if everyone goes back for seconds.
I certainly wouldn't blame them!!