Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Skillet Recipe

Sizzling Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Skillet Recipe: Homestyle Magic

Comfort food reaches new heights with this mouthwatering Philly cheesesteak pasta skillet that combines classic sandwich flavors in a hearty one-pan meal.

Tender strips of beef sizzle alongside perfectly cooked pasta, creating a delicious fusion of textures and tastes.

The creamy cheese sauce coats every bite with rich, savory goodness that screams pure satisfaction.

Caramelized onions and bell peppers add depth and authenticity to this crowd-pleasing dish.

Packed with robust flavors and ready in under 30 minutes, this skillet recipe transforms weeknight dinners into something extraordinary.

Each forkful promises a delightful blend of Philadelphia sandwich nostalgia and comforting pasta goodness.

Prepare to be amazed by this irresistible culinary adventure that will have everyone asking for seconds.

FAQs

  • Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute rotini with other short pasta like penne, shells, or cavatappi. Just ensure the cooking time remains similar for the best results.

  • Is this recipe spicy?

The recipe has mild heat from pepper jack cheese. If you want more spice, add red pepper flakes or use a spicier cheese blend to increase the kick.

  • Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Replace regular rotini with gluten-free pasta and ensure your chicken broth is certified gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

  • What can I do if the pasta seems dry?

If the pasta looks too dry during cooking, add a little more chicken broth or hot water in small increments. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

Pasta Night Highlights: Philly Cheesesteak Skillet

  • Transforms the beloved Philly cheesesteak into a hearty, one-pan pasta masterpiece that brings familiar flavors together in a deliciously unexpected way.
  • Requires just one skillet and minimal preparation, making this recipe perfect for busy home cooks who want maximum taste with minimal kitchen cleanup.
  • Combines savory ground beef, sweet bell peppers, caramelized onions, and melted cheese blend to create a robust, mouth-watering meal that satisfies serious comfort food cravings.
  • Allows flexible ingredient swaps like different pasta shapes, cheese varieties, or meat options to suit personal preferences and pantry availability.

Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Skillet Ingredients

Protein Base:
  • Ground Chuck: Provides a rich, meaty foundation for the Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Skillet.
Pasta and Broth:
  • Rotini Pasta: Captures sauce and adds a fun, twisty texture to the dish.
  • Low-Sodium Chicken Broth: Helps cook the pasta and adds depth of flavor without excess saltiness.
Vegetables and Aromatics:
  • Onion, Red Bell Pepper: Bring sweet and slightly sharp flavors that complement the beef.
  • Garlic: Adds a robust, aromatic base to the skillet.
Cheese Blend:
  • Provolone Cheese, Pepper Jack Cheese: Create a melty, tangy, and slightly spicy cheese topping that mimics classic Philly Cheesesteak flavors.
Cooking Essentials:
  • Olive Oil: Provides a smooth cooking medium and adds a subtle fruity undertone.
  • Kosher Salt, Black Pepper: Enhance and balance the overall seasoning of the dish.

Must-Have Tools for Cheesesteak Pasta

  • 10-inch high-sided skillet: Main cooking vessel for this entire recipe, crucial for creating the one-pan meal.
  • Wooden spoon: Perfect for breaking up ground beef and stirring ingredients smoothly.
  • Measuring spoons: Helps accurately measure salt and spices for balanced flavor.
  • Sharp knife: Needed for slicing onions, bell peppers, and preparing ingredients.
  • Broiler-safe skillet: Ensures you can finish the dish under direct heat for melted, golden cheese.
  • Cutting board: Provides clean surface for chopping vegetables and preparing ingredients.

Cooking Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Skillet

Step 1: Warm Up the Skillet

Heat olive oil in a 10-inch high-sided skillet over medium-high heat until the oil starts to shimmer and dance around the pan.

Step 2: Caramelize Onions

Toss sliced onions into the hot skillet and sprinkle with salt.

Let them sizzle and transform into golden-brown delights, stirring occasionally for about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Introduce Peppers and Garlic

Add to the skillet:
  • Sliced red bell peppers
  • Minced garlic

Cook for 2-3 minutes until peppers soften and garlic releases its aromatic magic.

Step 4: Brown the Beef

Crumble ground chuck into the skillet, seasoning with salt and black pepper.

Break up the meat with a wooden spoon, cooking until it’s fully browned and no pink remains, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 5: Welcome the Pasta

Sprinkle dry rotini pasta into the beef and onion mixture, creating a delicious foundation.

Step 6: Create the Liquid Base

Pour chicken broth into the skillet, stirring to combine all the flavors.

Cover and bring to a rolling boil.

Step 7: Simmer and Cook

Uncover the skillet and let the pasta simmer.

Stir occasionally for 20-25 minutes until pasta is perfectly tender and most liquid has been absorbed.

Step 8: Prepare the Broiler

Position an oven rack in the middle and crank the broiler to high heat.

Step 9: Cheese Fusion

Stir half of the shredded cheeses (provolone and pepper jack) into the pasta, creating a creamy, melty mixture.

Step 10: Broil to Perfection

Sprinkle remaining cheese on top of the pasta.

Slide the skillet under the broiler and watch as the cheese turns golden and bubbly, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 11: Serve and Devour

Carefully remove the skillet from the oven.

Let it cool slightly, then serve this mouthwatering Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Skillet to eager diners.

Smart Tips for Creamy Pasta Skillet Dinners

  • Stir occasionally while cooking to keep rotini from clumping and sticking to the bottom of the skillet.
  • Watch carefully during broiling to avoid burning; cheese should be golden and bubbly, not dark brown.
  • Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce with ground chuck for extra umami and traditional Philly cheesesteak taste.
  • If pasta seems dry during cooking, splash additional chicken broth to ensure perfect moisture and tenderness.
  • Assemble entire dish ahead of time and refrigerate, then broil cheese just before serving for quick weeknight meal.

Tasty Twists for Cheesesteak Pasta Skillet

  • Vegetarian Cheesesteak Pasta: Replace ground chuck with plant-based crumbles or sliced portobello mushrooms for a meat-free version packed with umami flavor.
  • Gluten-Free Skillet Option: Swap rotini pasta with gluten-free penne or rice pasta to accommodate gluten sensitivities while maintaining the classic cheesesteak taste.
  • Low-Carb Cauliflower Swap: Substitute pasta with riced cauliflower or spiralized zucchini noodles for a lighter, low-carbohydrate alternative that keeps the cheesy, savory profile.
  • Spicy Southwest Variation: Add diced jalapeños, use pepper jack cheese exclusively, and sprinkle chili powder to create a zesty, heat-packed version of the original recipe.

Best Pairings for Pasta Skillet Meals

  • Crowd-Pleasing Party Starter: Serve this hearty Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Skillet as a show-stopping appetizer at game day gatherings or casual dinner parties. Cut into smaller portions and use toothpicks for easy sharing.
  • Fresh Herb Finishing Touch: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or chives over the top just before serving to add a bright, fresh contrast to the rich, cheesy pasta and elevate the dish's visual appeal.
  • Delicious Side Companions: Pair this skillet meal with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette or garlic bread to balance the robust flavors and provide a refreshing accompaniment to the cheesy, meaty pasta.

Storing Pasta Skillet Dishes the Right Way

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Properly sealed pasta will stay fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
  • Transfer cooled pasta to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Freeze for up to 2 months, removing excess air to prevent freezer burn.
  • Place pasta in a microwave-safe dish, sprinkle 1-2 tablespoons of water or chicken broth to prevent drying. Cover and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
  • Warm pasta in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to restore moisture. Stir gently and heat until thoroughly warmed, about 5-7 minutes.
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Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Skillet Recipe

Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Skillet Recipe


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4.8 from 23 reviews

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Hearty Philly cheesesteak pasta skillet blends classic sandwich flavors into a comforting one-pan meal. Rich beef, peppers, and melted provolone create a satisfying dinner you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Proteins:

  • 1 pound ground chuck
  • 1 clove garlic, minced

Vegetables:

  • 1 large yellow onion, halved and sliced 1/2-inch thick
  • 1 medium red bell pepper, halved and sliced 1/2-inch thick

Pasta and Dairy:

  • 8 ounces dry rotini pasta
  • 2 (14.5-ounce) cans low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 1/2 cups (4 1/2 ounces) shredded provolone cheese
  • 1 1/2 cups (4 1/2 ounces) shredded pepper jack cheese

Seasonings and Oil:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat a 10-inch high-sided skillet over medium-high heat, drizzling olive oil to create a shimmering surface.
  2. Introduce sliced onions with a sprinkle of kosher salt, sautéing until edges caramelize and texture softens, approximately 5 minutes.
  3. Incorporate sliced red bell peppers and minced garlic, stirring continuously until vegetables become tender and aromatic, roughly 2-3 minutes.
  4. Crumble ground chuck into the skillet, seasoning with remaining salt and black pepper, breaking meat into small fragments until completely browned and no pink remains, around 5-7 minutes.
  5. Introduce dry rotini pasta directly into the beef and vegetable mixture, ensuring even distribution.
  6. Pour low-sodium chicken broth over the ingredients, thoroughly mixing to combine, then cover and bring to a vigorous boil.
  7. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered, stirring periodically, allowing pasta to cook and liquid to reduce for 20-25 minutes until pasta reaches desired tenderness.
  8. Position oven rack in middle position and activate broiler on high setting while pasta completes cooking.
  9. Fold half the provolone and pepper jack cheeses into the pasta, creating a creamy, integrated texture.
  10. Distribute remaining cheese across the pasta’s surface, then slide skillet under broiler for 2-3 minutes until cheese transforms into golden, bubbling perfection.
  11. Allow skillet to rest momentarily after removing from broiler, then serve immediately while warm and incredibly appetizing.

Notes

  • Cheese Selection Experiment with different cheese combinations like sharp cheddar or Swiss for unique flavor profiles that complement the meaty base.
  • Gluten-Free Adaptation Use gluten-free rotini or zucchini noodles to make this dish suitable for those with wheat sensitivities while maintaining the classic cheesesteak taste.
  • Vegetable Boost Increase nutritional value by adding extra vegetables like sliced mushrooms or spinach during the sautéing stage for more depth and nutrients.
  • Spice Customization Enhance heat levels by incorporating red pepper flakes or jalapeños for those who enjoy a spicier cheesesteak experience without compromising the original recipe’s essence.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 496
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 540 mg
  • Fat: 24 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 41 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 30 g
  • Cholesterol: 90 mg
Lena Martinez

Lena Martinez

Contributing Writer & Culinary Educator

Expertise

Southwestern and Latin American cuisines, Vegetarian and plant-based recipe development, Culinary education and community outreach ​

Education

Santa Fe Community College, Santa Fe, NM
Certificate in Culinary Arts

Emphasized Southwestern cuisine and sustainable cooking practices


Lena grew up surrounded by the colors, spices, and traditions of the Southwest – flavors that sparked her love for bold, honest cooking. After earning her Culinary Arts certificate at Santa Fe Community College, she made it her mission to teach home cooks how to create flavorful, plant-powered meals without the fuss.
Her recipes are packed with vibrant ingredients, simple steps, and the kind of heart that turns a regular meal into something you’ll want to share. Outside the kitchen, Lena spends her time wandering farmers’ markets, trading family recipes, and helping young chefs find their voice through food.

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