
Transform ordinary pasta night into an extraordinary experience with Philly cheesesteak pasta, where tender strips of steak, caramelized vegetables, and creamy cheese sauce combine with perfectly cooked elbow noodles. This innovative fusion dish brings the beloved flavors of Philadelphia's famous sandwich to your pasta bowl, creating a comforting meal that satisfies both pasta lovers and cheesesteak enthusiasts.
When I first created this fusion dish, I was skeptical about combining two distinct comfort foods. However, the way the provolone cheese melts into a silky sauce while the steak remains perfectly tender convinced me this was a winning combination.
Perfect Components
- Thinly sliced steak: Choose ribeye or sirloin cut against the grain for maximum tenderness.
- Elbow noodles: Their shape captures the perfect amount of creamy sauce in each bite.
- Provolone cheese: Fresh-grated provides the authentic Philly cheesesteak flavor.
- Bell peppers and onions: Slice uniformly for even cooking and classic cheesesteak taste.
- Beef broth: Creates a rich base for the sauce while enhancing the meaty flavor.
Cooking Creation
- Pasta Foundation:
- Cook elbows in well-salted water until perfectly al dente. Drain while reserving some pasta water for sauce adjustment. Toss with a touch of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Steak Mastery:
- Sear meat quickly over high heat for ideal texture. Work in batches to avoid overcrowding. Rest meat before returning to the dish.
- Sauce Symphony:
- Deglaze the pan with beef broth to capture flavor. Incorporate cream gradually while stirring. Melt cheese slowly for the smoothest sauce.

My family's Philadelphia roots made me particularly careful about getting this fusion right. The key discovery was that allowing the vegetables to caramelize properly creates that authentic cheesesteak flavor we all love.
Serving Inspiration
Present this hearty dish in wide bowls to showcase the colorful mix of steak and vegetables. A side of garlic bread makes the perfect companion for soaking up extra sauce, while a crisp Caesar salad provides refreshing contrast.
Tasty Twists
Create a spicy version with sliced pepperoncini and red pepper flakes. For a mushroom lover's dream, double the mushrooms and add different varieties. Try swapping provolone for white American cheese for an extra creamy variation.
Fresh Keeping
Store in an airtight container for up to three days in the refrigerator. When reheating, add a splash of beef broth or cream to revive the sauce. Warm gently over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to maintain the creamy texture.
This Philly cheesesteak pasta has become my go-to dish for impressing guests while keeping preparation simple. The way it combines two beloved comfort foods into one irresistible meal never fails to bring smiles to the dinner table. Whether you're a cheesesteak purist or pasta enthusiast, this fusion dish promises to deliver satisfaction in every forkful.

Frequently Asked Questions
- → What's the best cut of steak to use?
- Ribeye is traditional and most flavorful, but sirloin works great too. Just slice it very thin against the grain.
- → Can I use a different type of pasta?
- Yes! Any short pasta works well - try penne, rotini, or shells instead of elbow noodles.
- → What cheese can I substitute for provolone?
- Mozzarella or white American cheese work well. You can also use a mix of cheeses.
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
- Yes, but the sauce might thicken. Reheat gently with a splash of milk or broth to thin it out.
- → How do I slice the steak thinly?
- Freeze the meat for 20 minutes first - this makes it easier to slice. Always cut against the grain for tender meat.