Baked Philly Cheesesteak Pasta

If you love the rich, savory flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak but are craving something a little more comforting and pasta-filled, this Baked Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is exactly what you need. It’s a hearty, crowd-pleasing dish packed with tender beef, sautéed onions, crisp green bell peppers, and a creamy cheese sauce that’s baked to bubbly perfection. Using penne pasta as the base, this recipe transforms the iconic sandwich flavors into a cozy casserole that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

Why This Baked Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Stands Out

What makes this Baked Philly Cheesesteak Pasta truly special is the way it combines the best elements of the Philly cheesesteak sandwich with the comforting texture of baked pasta. The thinly sliced beef steak is perfectly browned and tender, while the sautéed onions and green bell peppers add a sweet and slightly crisp bite. The creamy sauce, made from cream cheese and beef broth along with Worcestershire sauce and Italian seasoning, gives the dish rich depth and a velvety finish. Topped with a melty blend of provolone and mozzarella cheeses, it’s baked until golden and bubbly, creating a beautiful crust that contrasts with the creamy interior. This recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy the classic flavors in a new and satisfying way.

Ingredient Notes

• 12 oz penne pasta: Penne is an ideal pasta shape for this dish because its tubes hold onto the creamy sauce perfectly, ensuring each bite is flavorful.
• 1 lb beef steak, thinly sliced: Opt for a tender cut like sirloin or ribeye, thinly sliced against the grain for maximum tenderness.
• 1 onion, sliced: Yellow or white onions work best, adding natural sweetness and depth when sautéed.
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced: Adds a fresh, slightly crisp texture and a mild pepper flavor that complements the beef.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Enhances the overall flavor with a fragrant kick.
• 1 cup beef broth: Use a good-quality broth to infuse the sauce with savory richness.
• 1 cup cream cheese, softened: Creates a creamy, luscious texture for the sauce base.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds umami and a slight tang that elevates the beef flavor.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that adds aromatic complexity.
• 1 cup provolone cheese, shredded: A semi-soft cheese that melts beautifully and brings a mild, smoky flavor.
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded: Adds gooeyness and stretchiness to the cheese topping.
• Salt and pepper to taste: To season the dish perfectly.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing the vegetables and beef, adding subtle richness.

Equipment at a Glance

• Large pot – to cook the penne pasta al dente.
• Large skillet or sauté pan – for browning the beef and cooking the vegetables.
• Mixing bowl – to combine the cream cheese with broth and seasonings.
• Baking dish (9×13 inch) – to assemble and bake the pasta casserole.
• Cheese grater – for shredding provolone and mozzarella cheeses.
• Wooden spoon or spatula – for stirring the sauce and sautéing ingredients.

Baked Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Cooking Guide

Step 1: Cook the penne pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until just al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the veggies

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and green bell peppers, cooking until softened and slightly caramelized, about 6-8 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant. Remove the vegetables from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the beef

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Increase heat to medium-high and add the thinly sliced beef steak. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat.

Step 4: Prepare the creamy sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and Italian seasoning. Whisk until smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Combine pasta, beef, veggies, and sauce

In the large skillet or a mixing bowl, return the cooked beef, sautéed vegetables, and drained pasta. Pour the cream cheese sauce over everything and gently toss to combine.

Step 6: Assemble and top with cheese

Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded provolone and mozzarella evenly over the top.

Step 7: Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the pasta casserole uncovered for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.

Step 8: Serve and enjoy

Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed veggies.

Budget & Availability Swaps

• Beef steak: Substitute with thinly sliced chicken breast or turkey breast for a leaner or more budget-friendly option.
• Provolone cheese: Use cheddar or Monterey Jack if provolone is hard to find.
• Green bell pepper: Substitute with red or yellow bell peppers for a sweeter flavor.
• Cream cheese: Use ricotta or mascarpone for a different creamy texture.
• Beef broth: Chicken broth or vegetable broth can be used if preferred.

Errors to Dodge

• Overcooking the pasta – since it will bake in the oven, cook the penne just until al dente to avoid mushy texture.
• Not slicing the beef thinly enough – thick slices can result in tougher, chewier bites.
• Skipping the sauté of vegetables – this step builds flavor and softens the veggies for the best texture.
• Using cold cream cheese – make sure it’s softened to blend smoothly into the sauce.
• Overbaking the casserole – keep an eye on the cheese topping to prevent burning.

Leftovers & Meal Prep

This Baked Philly Cheesesteak Pasta keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days when stored in an airtight container. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. It also freezes beautifully—portion into freezer-safe containers and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. This makes it an excellent option for meal prep or quick weeknight dinners.

Troubleshooting Q&A

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the entire dish up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.

What if I don’t have Worcestershire sauce?

You can substitute Worcestershire sauce with soy sauce or a splash of balsamic vinegar for a similar depth of flavor, keeping in mind that the taste will be slightly different but still delicious.

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes, you can swap penne for rigatoni, ziti, or even elbow macaroni. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta’s package instructions to get it al dente.

How do I prevent the pasta from drying out?

Make sure to mix the pasta well with the creamy sauce before baking. This ensures every piece is coated and stays moist. Also, covering the dish loosely with foil for the first half of baking can help retain moisture if desired.

More from the Kitchen

• Philly Cheesesteak Sandwiches – For a traditional handheld version packed with all the classic flavors.
• Holiday Baked Macaroni Pasta – Another comforting baked pasta dish perfect for festive occasions.

Hungry for More?

If you’re a fan of rich, cheesy pasta dishes with a meaty twist, this Baked Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is a must-try. Once you’ve mastered this recipe, explore other baked pasta casseroles to keep your dinner rotation exciting and delicious. The combination of tender meat, melty cheese, and creamy sauce is sure to become a favorite for your family and friends alike.

This dish beautifully bridges the gap between a beloved sandwich and a hearty pasta bake, making it a versatile and satisfying meal any night of the week. Whether you’re serving it for a casual dinner or a special occasion, it delivers on flavor and comfort in every bite. Enjoy!

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