Easy Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Shells Recipe Everyone Will Love

Philly cheesesteak pasta shells bring culinary creativity to your dinner table with a bold fusion of classic sandwich flavors.

Traditional ingredients dance together in unexpected ways, creating a mouthwatering comfort dish that defies ordinary expectations.

Robust meat mingles with tender pasta, promising a hearty experience that satisfies deep hunger.

Creamy cheese blankets each shell, delivering rich, decadent notes that complement the savory protein perfectly.

Familiar elements combine seamlessly, turning a well-known sandwich concept into an exciting pasta adventure.

Weekend meals deserve something extraordinary, and this recipe delivers excitement without complicated techniques.

Imagine digging into a plate that merges familiar tastes with innovative preparation – You can want to dive right in and savor every delicious bite.

Flavor Variations on Cheesesteak Pasta Shells

• Spicy Southwest Shells: Replace bell peppers with jalapeños and add taco seasoning for a zesty kick. Swap cheddar for pepper jack cheese to enhance the heat level.
• Mediterranean Fusion Shells: Substitute ground beef with lamb and incorporate feta cheese. Mix in oregano, garlic, and diced sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean flavor profile.
• Veggie Protein Shells: Use plant-based ground meat alternative and add mushrooms for extra texture. Include nutritional yeast in the cheese sauce for a rich, nutty undertone.
• Bacon Lover's Shells: Crisp chopped bacon during beef browning process. Sprinkle bacon bits over shells before baking and mix crumbles into cheese sauce for smoky depth.

Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Shells FAQs

• Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey works perfectly and offers a leaner protein option for this recipe. Just ensure you brown it similarly to achieve the same deep flavor.

• How do I prevent the pasta shells from tearing when stuffing?

Cook the shells al dente and handle them gently. Use a small spoon to carefully fill each shell to avoid ripping the pasta.

• Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the stuffed shells and cheese sauce a day in advance, refrigerate, and bake when ready to serve. Just add 5-10 extra minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.

• What side dishes pair well with Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Shells?

A crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread complement this dish wonderfully and balance the rich cheesy flavors.

What Makes Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Shells Irresistible

• Deeply browned ground beef creates an intense, caramelized flavor that elevates the traditional cheesesteak experience into a comforting pasta dish.
• This one-skillet recipe transforms complex cheesesteak flavors into an easy 30-minute meal, perfect for busy weeknight dinners that satisfy hungry families.
• Melted cheddar cheese sauce and cheese-stuffed shells provide a luxurious, creamy texture that blends classic Philly cheesesteak ingredients with pasta's hearty appeal.
• The recipe teaches home cooks a foolproof method of browning meats and vegetables, creating deep flavor layers without complicated cooking skills.

What You’ll Need for Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Shells

• Ground Beef: Rich meat with deep flavor, great for hearty pasta dish. Choose lean ground beef for less grease.
• Pasta Shells: Large pasta shells perfect for stuffing. Select jumbo or extra-large shells for best results.

• Onions, Bell Peppers: Classic Philly cheesesteak vegetables adding sweetness and texture. Fresh, crisp vegetables provide best flavor.
• Butter: Helps caramelize vegetables and adds richness.

• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheese providing creamy, melty texture. Opt for block cheese and grate fresh for best melting.
• Milk: Creates smooth, creamy cheese sauce. Whole milk recommended for richer consistency.
• Beef Broth: Adds depth and savory flavor to cheese sauce.

• Ketchup: Adds tangy sweetness to beef mixture. Use standard tomato ketchup.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Provides umami and complexity. Classic, aged sauce works best.
• Salt, Black Pepper: Essential seasonings for balanced flavor.
• Cornstarch: Helps thicken cheese sauce and create smooth texture.

How to Cook Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Shells

Step 1: Warm Up the Cooking Space

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Grab a large cast iron skillet and make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature.

Step 2: Sizzle the Beef

Place the ground beef in the skillet and cook over medium-high heat.

Let a deep brown crust form before breaking the meat apart.

Continue cooking until about half of the beef has a rich, browned crust.

Drain the excess fat if you prefer less grease.

Step 3: Sauté Colorful Veggies

Keep the beef drippings in the skillet and add some butter.

Toss in diced onions and bell peppers and let them brown for 1 to 2 minutes.

Give them a gentle stir, then let them brown for another 1 to 2 minutes.

Make sure the vegetables are soft and caramelized.

Step 4: Create Flavor Base

Put the beef back into the skillet with the veggies.

Mix in ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper.

Stir everything together until well blended, then take the pan off the heat.

Let the mixture sit so the flavors can come together.

Step 5: Fill Pasta Shells

Cook the pasta shells according to the directions on the package.

Drain them and scoop the beef mixture into each shell.

Top each one with a cube of cheddar cheese and arrange the filled shells in a baking dish.

Step 6: Whip Up Creamy Cheese Sauce

In the same skillet, pour in beef broth and milk.

Sprinkle in the cornstarch and whisk until smooth.

Reheat over medium flame, then gradually add the rest of the cheddar cheese.

Keep whisking until the sauce thickens, about 3 to 5 minutes.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Pour half of the cheese sauce around the stuffed shells and spread it out evenly.

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes.

The cheese should melt and bubble nicely.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Take the dish out of the oven and drizzle the rest of the cheese sauce on top.

Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if you like.

Serve right away while everything is hot.

Pair it with a crisp green salad or warm garlic bread.

Pro Tips for Pasta Shells Cheesesteak Style

• Lock in Beef Flavor: Brown the ground beef thoroughly to develop a deep, caramelized crust that intensifies the overall taste of the dish.
• Master Vegetable Sautéing: Let onions and bell peppers develop golden-brown edges by resisting the urge to stir constantly, which creates rich, sweet caramelization.
• Create Smooth Cheese Sauce: Whisk cornstarch mixture gradually and continuously while adding cheese to prevent lumps and achieve a silky, creamy consistency.
• Prevent Dry Shells: Drizzle cheese sauce both underneath and on top of stuffed shells to ensure maximum moisture and flavor throughout the dish.
• Optimal Cheese Melting: Use cubed cheese inside shells and allow a short baking time to create pockets of melted cheese throughout the pasta.

Storage Guide for Cheesesteak Pasta Shells

• Refrigerate: Transfer cooled pasta shells to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheat in Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F, cover pasta with foil to prevent drying, and warm for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave Option: Place pasta in a microwave-safe dish, add a splash of milk to maintain moisture, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until thoroughly warm.

Best Pairings for Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Shells

• Craft a Hearty Beer Pairing: Grab a robust amber ale or hoppy IPA to complement the rich, meaty flavors of the Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Shells. The beer's malty undertones and crisp finish will cut through the creamy cheese sauce, creating a perfect balance.
• Elevate with Red Wine: Choose a medium-bodied red wine like Zinfandel or Malbec to match the beef's deep, caramelized notes. These wines bring out the savory elements of the dish while providing a smooth, elegant drinking experience.
• Fresh Salad Sidekick: Whip up a crisp arugula salad with a tangy vinaigrette to contrast the pasta's richness. The peppery greens and bright dressing will cleanse the palate and add a refreshing element to the hearty main course.
• Cool Cucumber Complement: Prepare a light cucumber salad with fresh dill and a touch of sour cream. Its cool, refreshing nature will balance the warmth and intensity of the cheesy, meaty pasta shells.

Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Shells Recipe

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4.6 from 26 reviews

• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Creamy pasta shells loaded with classic Philly cheesesteak flavors bring comfort and excitement to dinner tables. Melted provolone, tender beef, and sautéed peppers make this dish an irresistible comfort classic for when you crave bold, hearty meals.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein:

• 1 pound (454 grams) lean ground beef

Vegetables:

• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 1 small green bell pepper, diced

Pasta and Dairy:

• 24 jumbo pasta shells, cooked
• 8 ounces (227 grams) cheddar cheese, cut into small cubes (divided)
• 1 cup (240 milliliters) milk (whole recommended)

Seasonings and Sauces:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper

Thickener:

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

Liquid:

• 1 cup (240 milliliters) beef broth

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to a moderate 350°F, preparing a cast iron skillet and baking dish for the culinary adventure ahead.
2. Sear the ground beef in the skillet, allowing a rich, caramelized crust to develop before breaking the meat apart. Cook until approximately half the beef displays a deep golden-brown exterior.
3. Transfer the browned beef to a separate plate, preserving the flavorful drippings in the skillet. Introduce butter and sauté the diced onions and bell peppers, creating a golden-brown caramelization through strategic stirring.
4. Reintroduce the beef to the skillet, incorporating ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Blend the ingredients thoroughly, then remove from heat.
5. Fill cooked pasta shells generously with the savory beef mixture, strategically placing cubes of cheese within each shell, using half the cheese allocation.
6. Craft a luxurious cheese sauce directly in the skillet by whisking beef broth, milk, and cornstarch. Gradually melt the remaining cheddar cheese while continuously stirring until the sauce reaches a velvety consistency.
7. Arrange the stuffed shells in a baking dish, cascading half the cheese sauce around them. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and meld the flavors.
8. Present the pasta shells with the remaining cheese sauce elegantly drizzled over the top, creating a decadent Philly cheesesteak-inspired masterpiece.

Notes

• Perfectly sear ground beef to develop a deep, flavorful crust that adds rich caramelized notes to the dish.
• Brown vegetables separately to create layers of complex, concentrated flavors that elevate the overall taste profile.
• Use a cast iron skillet for optimal heat distribution and to capture delicious browned bits from cooking meats and vegetables.
• Gradually whisk cheese into sauce to prevent clumping and ensure a smooth, creamy texture that coats every pasta shell.
• Pre-stuff shells with meat mixture and cheese cubes for maximum melting and flavor integration during baking.
• Allow baking time to help cheese melt completely and marry all ingredients into a cohesive, comforting meal.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 454
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 540 mg
• Fat: 25 g
• Saturated Fat: 12 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 1 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 24 g
• Cholesterol: 80 mg