Few dishes bring the warmth and nostalgia of childhood memories quite like a Philly cheesesteak—but what if you could enjoy that rich, savory flavor in a comforting pasta bake? Inspired by family trips to Philadelphia’s iconic cheesesteak spots, this recipe transforms that classic sandwich into a hearty, cheesy casserole perfect for busy weeknights. Every bite delivers tender beef, gooey cheese, and pasta coated in a savory sauce that feels like a hug on a plate.

What makes this Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Bake truly special is its versatility. It’s an easy dinner recipe that appeals to both kids and adults, combining familiar flavors with the convenience of a one-dish meal. The pasta soaks up the rich sauce, while layers of provolone melt into golden, bubbly perfection in the oven. It’s a family-friendly comfort food that never fails to impress.

Whether you’re craving a nostalgic taste of Philly or simply want a hearty weeknight dinner idea, this pasta bake checks all the boxes. Pair it with a crisp salad, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread, and you have a complete meal that’s as satisfying as it is delicious.

 

 

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy weeknight dinner: Minimal prep, maximum flavor.
• Family-friendly comfort food: Loved by adults and kids alike.
• Versatile and customizable: Swap cheeses, add veggies, or use ground turkey.
• Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or casual gatherings.

 

 

Ingredients

• 8 ounces Pasta shells
• 1 tablespoon Olive oil
• 1 pound Ground beef
• 1 Green bell pepper, diced
• 1 Onion, diced
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• ½ teaspoon Black pepper
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 cup Beef broth
• 8 ounces Cream cheese, softened
• 2 cups Provolone cheese, shredded

 

 

How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Bake

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Brown the beef: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
4. Sauté the veggies: Add bell pepper, onion, and garlic; cook 5 minutes until softened.
5. Season and simmer: Stir in salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth; bring to a simmer.
6. Add cream cheese: Mix until fully melted and combined.
7. Combine pasta and sauce: Toss cooked pasta with beef and cheese mixture.
8. Bake: Transfer to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with shredded provolone. Bake 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
9. Serve: Let cool slightly before serving.

 

 

Tips for the Best Cheesesteak Pasta Bake

• Use freshly shredded provolone for better melting and flavor.
• Dice vegetables uniformly to ensure even cooking.
• For extra richness, add a splash of milk or heavy cream to the sauce.
• Make ahead: Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate overnight; bake when ready.

 

 

Variations

• Veggie-packed: Add mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrition.
• Cheese swap: Try mozzarella or cheddar for a different flavor profile.
• Protein twist: Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Spicy kick: Add sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes.

 

 

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, penne or rigatoni work well.
2. Can I freeze this dish? Yes, freeze before baking for up to 3 months.
3. Is it gluten-free? Use gluten-free pasta and check broth labels.
4. Can I make it vegetarian? Replace beef with cooked lentils or plant-based crumbles.
5. How do I prevent the pasta from getting mushy? Cook slightly al dente; it will finish cooking in the oven.
6. Can I add extra cheese? Absolutely, just adjust bake time slightly.
7. Can this be made in a slow cooker? Yes, cook beef and veggies first, then combine and cook on LOW 2–3 hours.
8. How do I store leftovers? Refrigerate up to 4 days, reheat covered.
9. Can I make it spicy? Yes, add hot sauce or chili flakes to the mixture.
10. Can I prepare it ahead for a potluck? Yes, assemble in advance and bake on the day of serving.

 

 

Serving Suggestions

• Crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette
• Roasted broccoli, asparagus, or carrots
• Crusty bread to soak up every bite of cheesy goodness