Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Pasta with Ground Beef

Creamy Philly cheesesteak pasta with ground beef is the ultimate comfort food solution for busy weeknights.

For me, comfort food is more than just a meal; it’s a feeling. It’s that cozy, grounding sense that everything is going to be okay. This creamy Philly cheesesteak pasta is the very definition of that feeling—it’s a dish that wraps the nostalgic flavors of a classic sandwich into the simple ease of a one-pot meal. It has become my go-to recipe for turning a chaotic weeknight into a moment of pure comfort.

This dish delivers all the flavor of a Philly cheesesteak with a creamy twist, packed into a single skillet. It’s rich, cheesy, and comforting—without compromising on health-conscious choices like lean ground beef and low-sodium broth. Plus, it’s easy to prep ahead and perfect for leftovers.

For another fantastic ‘set it and forget it’ meal, be sure to check out my easy Crockpot Chicken and Veggies recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Philly Cheesesteak Pasta with Ground Beef

If you’re someone who craves bold flavor without the fuss, this recipe was made for you. It brings together the savory satisfaction of a Philly cheesesteak and the comfort of a creamy pasta—all in one pot.

✅ One-Pot Simplicity

No pile of dishes waiting in the sink. Everything, from browning the beef to simmering the pasta, happens in a single skillet. That means less mess and more time to unwind.

✅ Lean, Nourishing Ingredients

Using lean ground beef and low-sodium broth keeps this dish on the lighter side, making it a smarter choice for health-conscious comfort food lovers. According to Harvard’s Nutrition Source, lean protein can support muscle health and satiety as part of a balanced diet. To finish this comforting meal with a truly healthy dessert, I love making these fudgy gluten and dairy-free brownies.

✅ Budget-Friendly & Flexible

With pantry staples like pasta, onions, and bell peppers, this meal is easy on your wallet. You can also swap in what you have—like different short-cut pasta shapes or an extra veggie or two.

✅ Family-Friendly Favorite

The creamy texture and cheesy finish win over picky eaters, while adults appreciate the nostalgic Philly cheesesteak flavors. It’s a rare meal that pleases every plate at the table.

✅ Great for Make-Ahead Meals

This dish stores and reheats beautifully, making it a top choice for meal prep or quick leftover lunches.

Ingredients for Philly Cheesesteak Pasta with Ground Beef

To capture the rich, savory flavor of a classic Philly cheesesteak in pasta form, every ingredient here plays a key role. From the aromatics to the cheese, it’s a pantry-friendly list designed for maximum flavor and ease.

Core Ingredients

• 1 lb lean ground beef
  A lighter take on the traditional steak, this still offers rich, meaty flavor while trimming down the fat.
  
• 1 large yellow onion, diced
  Sweet and aromatic, onions are essential for that Philly-inspired taste.
  
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
  Adds crunch and a slightly bitter contrast that balances the creaminess.
  
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
  Garlic deepens the savory profile and complements the beef beautifully.
  
• 1 tsp salt, or to taste
  Enhances all the flavors—be sure to adjust at the end if needed.
  
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
  Adds just the right amount of warmth and depth.
  

For the Creamy Sauce

• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  Acts as a thickener, creating that luscious, clingy sauce.
  
• 3 cups low-sodium beef broth
  Boosts the savory flavor while keeping things light. Beef broth also honors the classic cheesesteak base more authentically than chicken broth.
  
• 1 cup heavy cream
  The key to richness—it brings everything together into a smooth, velvety sauce.
  
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  Adds umami complexity that mimics the depth of a grilled steak sandwich.
  

Pasta & Cheese

• 8 oz pasta (rotini, shells, or penne)
  These shapes hold the sauce well and make each bite satisfying.
  
• 1 1/2 cups shredded provolone cheese
  The classic cheese for Philly cheesesteaks—mild, melty, and oh-so-creamy.
  
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
  A bright finishing touch that adds color and freshness.

The Secret to the Perfect Philly Cheesesteak Pasta with Ground Beef

Achieving that crave-worthy balance of creamy, cheesy pasta and bold Philly cheesesteak flavor lies in the method, not just the ingredients. Here’s how to take this dish from good to unforgettable.

Layering the Flavor

The flavor foundation begins with browning the ground beef. Don’t rush this step—allow the beef to develop those golden, caramelized edges. This Maillard reaction deepens the umami notes that make this dish taste like it’s been simmering all day.

Sautéing the Veggies Just Right

The diced onion and bell pepper should soften without losing their structure. They provide the signature Philly cheesesteak crunch and sweetness. Adding garlic at the end preserves its sharpness, which cuts through the richness of the sauce.

A Sauce That Clings, Not Pools

Sprinkling flour over the beef and veggies helps thicken the sauce naturally. Slowly whisking in broth and cream ensures a smooth, lump-free texture. The key is a gentle simmer—not a boil—which allows the sauce to thicken while the pasta cooks directly in it.

Cheese Matters

Provolone is the heart of the Philly cheesesteak flavor. Adding it off the heat ensures it melts evenly into the sauce without separating. You’re left with a glossy, creamy finish that clings to every piece of pasta.

How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Pasta with Ground Beef

This one-pot pasta recipe is all about building layers of flavor while keeping the process simple and mess-free. Each step contributes to the signature richness and savory comfort you expect from a Philly cheesesteak.

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Start by heating a large Dutch oven or deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add the lean ground beef and break it apart with a spoon as it cooks. You’re looking for even browning across all the meat. Once it’s fully cooked, drain any excess grease to prevent an overly oily sauce base.

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies

With the beef still in the pot, add the diced onion and green bell pepper. These vegetables soften and develop sweetness as they cook. After 5–7 minutes, stir in the minced garlic and sauté for just one more minute. This quick cook helps the garlic retain its punch.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

Sprinkle the flour over the meat and veggie mixture. Stir continuously for one minute to cook out the raw flour taste. Slowly pour in the beef broth and heavy cream while stirring to prevent lumps. Add the Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Bring everything to a gentle simmer. The sauce will begin to thicken—just what you want.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Stir in your uncooked pasta of choice (rotini, shells, or penne work great). Lower the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and simmer for 12–15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. You’ll know it’s ready when the pasta is al dente and the sauce has thickened into a rich, creamy coating.

Step 5: Melt the Cheese

Turn off the heat and stir in the shredded provolone. This step turns the sauce irresistibly creamy without risk of curdling. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a burst of color and a hint of freshness.

Variations for Philly Cheesesteak Pasta with Ground Beef

Whether you’re cooking for dietary needs, flavor preferences, or pantry constraints, this recipe is highly adaptable. Here are a few trusted variations that keep the heart of the dish intact while allowing you to customize it to your liking.

Make It Gluten-Free

Swap the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and use certified gluten-free pasta. The creamy texture and savory flavor hold up beautifully without the gluten. If you’re exploring more delicious gluten-free desserts, these no-bake keto fat bombs are a must-try

Add Extra Veggies

Boost the fiber and nutrition by adding mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini when you sauté the bell pepper and onion. Mushrooms, in particular, complement the beef and bring even more umami depth.

Try a Different Cheese

While provolone is classic, mozzarella or Monterey Jack can be used for a milder flavor. For a sharper twist, mix in a bit of shredded white cheddar—but always stir it in off the heat to prevent graininess.

Lighten It Up

To reduce the richness, substitute half the heavy cream with whole milk or a plain, unsweetened plant-based milk. The sauce will be slightly thinner but still flavorful.

Swap the Protein

Although ground beef delivers traditional Philly cheesesteak flavor, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning to maintain depth.

Serving and Storing Your Philly Cheesesteak Pasta with Ground Beef

This pasta is rich, creamy, and satisfying straight from the skillet—but it also lends itself beautifully to leftovers. Here’s how to make the most of every bite, whether you’re serving it tonight or saving some for later.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this dish hot, straight from the pot. It pairs well with a light side salad dressed in vinaigrette to cut through the richness. You can also add a side of roasted green beans or steamed broccoli for extra greens without extra work.

How to Store Leftovers

Let the pasta cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making leftovers even more delicious.

How to Reheat Without Drying Out

To reheat, add a splash of beef broth or milk to loosen the sauce. Microwave on medium heat in 1-minute increments, stirring in between, or reheat on the stovetop over low heat. Stir gently to maintain that creamy consistency.

Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Pasta with Ground Beef

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• Author: Lena
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4–6 1x

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Description

A one-pot comfort classic that blends the rich flavors of a Philly cheesesteak with creamy pasta. Made with lean ground beef, veggies, and melty provolone—quick enough for weeknights.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

1 lb lean ground beef

1 large yellow onion, diced

1 green bell pepper, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp salt, or to taste

1/2 tsp black pepper

2 tbsp all-purpose flour

3 cups low-sodium beef broth

1 cup heavy cream

1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

8 oz pasta (rotini, shells, or penne)

1 1/2 cups shredded provolone cheese

Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

1. Brown the Beef: In a large Dutch oven or deep skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess grease.
2. Sauté the Veggies: Add onion and bell pepper. Cook for 5–7 minutes until softened. Add garlic; cook 1 more minute.
3. Make the Sauce: Sprinkle in flour and stir constantly for 1 minute. Slowly add broth and cream, stirring to avoid lumps. Add Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
4. Cook the Pasta: Bring to a simmer. Stir in pasta, reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and cook 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente and sauce thickens.
5. Melt the Cheese: Remove from heat. Stir in provolone until fully melted and smooth.
6. Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

Stir occasionally while pasta simmers to prevent sticking.

For a lighter version, swap half the cream with whole milk or a plant-based alternative.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: One-Pot Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Conclusion

This creamy Philly cheesesteak pasta with ground beef proves that comfort food doesn’t have to mean compromise. It brings together the soul-satisfying flavors of a classic cheesesteak in a one-pot, weeknight-friendly format. Whether you’re feeding a family, meal-prepping for the week, or just craving something cozy and craveable, this recipe delivers.

What’s your go-to weeknight comfort food? I’d love to hear your favorites in the comments below! And if you’re looking for a soothing drink to unwind with after dinner, this calming lemon balm tea is the perfect choice.

Philly Cheesesteak Pasta with Ground Beef: Your Questions Answered