Philly Cheesesteak Mac and Cheese

This post may include affiliate links — learn more here .

Introduction

There’s something magical about combining two beloved comfort foods—Philly cheesesteaks and mac and cheese and turning them into one mouthwatering dish. Picture it: creamy, cheesy mac and cheese with tender strips of seasoned beef, sautéed onions, and gooey melted provolone cheese. The result is Philly Cheesesteak Mac and Cheese, and trust me, it’s a game changer.

I first stumbled upon this genius combination when I was trying to figure out a way to make mac and cheese even more comforting and filling. Mac and cheese on its own is already a crowd-pleaser, but add in the savory, juicy goodness of a Philly cheesesteak, and you’ve got a dish that will have everyone going back for seconds (or thirds!). The marriage of these two dishes is a perfect blend of rich, creamy cheese and hearty, flavorful beef.

This recipe is fantastic for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying and indulgent, but it also works for special occasions like family gatherings or game day. Whether you’re serving it to kids, friends, or family, Philly Cheesesteak Mac and Cheese is sure to be a hit.

I love making this dish on weekends when I’ve got some extra time to really enjoy the cooking process. It’s become a favorite in our house, especially because it’s just so easy to make and never fails to impress. The blend of textures from the creamy cheese sauce, tender beef, and crispy bread crumbs on top is seriously irresistible. It’s cheesy, comforting, and absolutely delicious—everything you want in a dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Let’s talk about why this Philly Cheesesteak Mac and Cheese needs to make an appearance at your dinner table ASAP.

1. Easy to make: You don’t need any fancy ingredients or cooking skills to pull this off. With just a few key ingredients and a bit of love, you’ll have a meal that tastes like it’s been simmering all day.
2. Family-friendly: This is a dish everyone will love, from picky eaters to cheese aficionados. The beef, cheese, and pasta combo makes it a sure-fire crowd-pleaser. If you’ve got kids, they’ll love the cheesy mac, and the adults will appreciate the savory cheesesteak twist.
3. Packed with flavor: The beef is seasoned just right, with onions that add sweetness and a hint of caramelization. The cheese sauce is so creamy and indulgent, you might have trouble stopping at just one bowl. Topped with a golden, crispy breadcrumb crust? Perfection.

If you’ve ever found yourself staring at a bowl of mac and cheese, wishing it could be a little more substantial, this recipe is the answer. The tender, juicy beef adds depth and a savory flavor that takes mac and cheese to the next level. The gooey cheese sauce envelops the noodles and beef perfectly, creating a comfort-food masterpiece.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 6-8
• Calories per serving: 550
• Protein: 30g
• Carbs: 50g

Ingredients

For the creamy mac and cheese sauce:

• 1 lb elbow macaroni – The classic choice for mac and cheese. You can use other pasta shapes, but elbow macaroni holds the cheese sauce perfectly.
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter – Adds richness to the sauce.
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour – For thickening the cheese sauce.
• 2 cups whole milk – You want the richness of whole milk for a creamy texture.
• 1 cup shredded provolone cheese – The melted provolone adds that cheesesteak flavor and creamy texture.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – A sharp, tangy cheese that’s a must for mac and cheese.
• Salt and pepper – To taste.

For the Philly cheesesteak filling:

• 1 lb thinly sliced beef (like ribeye or flank steak) – The star of the show! Ribeye is tender and flavorful, perfect for cheesesteaks.
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced – Adds sweetness and flavor to the beef.
• 1 bell pepper, sliced (optional) – Adds a subtle crunch and color.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – For sautéing the veggies and beef.
• Salt and pepper – To taste.

For the topping:

• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs – These create a crispy, golden crust on top of your mac and cheese.
• 2 tablespoons melted butter – To toast the breadcrumbs.
• Fresh parsley – Optional, for garnish.

Step-by-Step

Instructions

1. Cook the macaroni

Start by cooking your elbow macaroni. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, and then cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain the pasta and set it aside, making sure to leave a little moisture on the noodles so the cheese sauce will stick better.

2. Prepare the Philly cheesesteak filling

While your pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and sauté the onions (and bell peppers, if you’re using them) until softened and lightly caramelized, about 5 minutes. Add the sliced beef to the pan, breaking it up with a spoon. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

3. Make the cheese sauce

In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually pour in the milk while continuously whisking to avoid lumps. Keep whisking until the mixture thickens slightly, about 3-4 minutes. Once thickened, reduce the heat to low and add the shredded provolone and cheddar cheeses. Stir until the cheese has completely melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Combine the pasta and cheesesteak filling

Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated. Next, fold in the Philly cheesesteak filling (the beef, onions, and peppers). Make sure everything is evenly distributed, and the cheesy sauce is coating the beef and veggies.

5. Prepare the breadcrumb topping

In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with the melted butter. Stir until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated.

6. Assemble and bake

Transfer the cheesy pasta and beef mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the buttery breadcrumbs evenly over the top. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy.

7. Serve and enjoy

Once your Philly Cheesesteak Mac and Cheese is out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve warm. Enjoy the cheesy, beefy, and comforting goodness!

How to Serve

There are a few ways to serve this dish, and I recommend trying them all!

• Serve directly from the baking dish for a casual, family-style meal.
• Pair with a side of crispy garlic bread for the perfect cheesy experience.
• Add a light salad, such as arugula with lemon vinaigrette, for a refreshing contrast to the richness of the mac and cheese.
• For an extra indulgent meal, serve with roasted vegetables like broccoli or Brussels sprouts to balance the flavors.

Additional Tips

1. Don’t overcook the pasta: Since you’re baking the dish later, you want the pasta to be slightly undercooked when you drain it. This way, it won’t turn mushy while baking in the sauce.
2. Sear the beef well: Make sure to get a good sear on your beef to add extra flavor. The crispy bits left in the pan will help flavor the dish!
3. Use freshly shredded cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect the smoothness of the sauce. Shred your own cheese for a creamier, more luxurious sauce.
4. Top with extra cheese: If you love a super cheesy topping, sprinkle a little extra provolone or cheddar on top before baking for an even cheesier crust.
5. Make it ahead: You can prepare the dish a day ahead, assemble it, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just increase the bake time slightly to account for the cold ingredients.

Recipe Variations

Philly Cheesesteak Mac and Cheese is incredibly versatile, and you can easily customize it to suit your preferences.

• Vegetarian Option: Swap the beef for mushrooms or a combination of mushrooms and bell peppers. You’ll still get that delicious umami flavor, and the mushrooms will have a meaty texture.
• Spicy Kick: Add some chopped jalapeños to the beef mixture, or stir in some hot sauce to the cheese sauce for a spicy twist.
• Gluten-Free: To make this dish gluten-free, simply use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs. You can easily find both in most grocery stores now.
• Extra Creamy: For an even creamier texture, stir in a little cream cheese or mascarpone into the cheese sauce. It adds richness and smoothness.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this dish with sides that balance the richness and add freshness:

• Side Dishes: Serve with a simple green salad, such as a Caesar or spinach salad with lemon dressing. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts work beautifully to add a crunchy texture to the meal.
• Drinks: Pair with a crisp white wine like Chardonnay or a light beer. If you prefer non-alcoholic drinks, iced tea or sparkling water with a slice of lemon complements the dish perfectly.

Freezing and Storage

Leftovers? No problem! Here’s how to store and freeze this dish:

• Storing: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until bubbly and heated through.
• Freezing: If you want to freeze this dish, let it cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. It will keep for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake it from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 30-40 minutes or until hot and bubbly.

Special Equipment

• Baking Dish: A 9×13-inch baking dish is ideal for this recipe, but you can also use a slightly smaller dish if you want a thicker layer of mac and cheese.
• Skillet: A large skillet is essential for cooking the beef and onions, so make sure you’ve got one that can fit everything comfortably.
• Whisk: To create the smooth, creamy cheese sauce, a good whisk is key for preventing lumps.

FAQ Section

Can I use store-bought cheese sauce? While you can, I highly recommend making your own cheese sauce. It’s super easy, and the flavor will be so much better!

Can I make this ahead of time? Yes! You can prep the whole dish up to the point of baking and store it in the fridge overnight. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve.

Can I use a different type of cheese? Absolutely! You can swap the provolone for mozzarella or even Swiss cheese. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile might shift slightly.

Can I freeze this dish? Yes! Just be sure to let it cool completely before freezing, and reheat thoroughly when you’re ready to enjoy.

Conclusion (150-200 words)

Philly Cheesesteak Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food mashup, and I promise it’ll be a hit with everyone who tries it. Whether you’re looking for a hearty weeknight dinner or something to wow your guests at a party, this dish checks all the boxes: it’s cheesy, savory, and completely satisfying.

I’d love to hear how your Philly Cheesesteak Mac and Cheese turns out! Don’t forget to share your photos on Instagram and tag me I love seeing your creations. And if you make this recipe, let me know in the comments how it went. Happy cooking!