The Ultimate Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells Recipe

A mouthwatering Philly cheesesteak stuffed shells fusion that blends classic comfort with unexpected culinary magic.

Tender pasta shells cradle a hearty filling bursting with savory beef and melted cheese.

My kitchen experiments often lead to delightful surprises, and this recipe proves that bold combinations can create something extraordinary.

The rich flavors of a traditional Philadelphia sandwich reimagined in a baked pasta form.

Juicy beef, caramelized onions, and gooey provolone mingle inside perfectly cooked pasta shells.

Each bite promises a delicious adventure that will make your taste buds dance with excitement.

You won’t be able to resist trying this creative twist on two beloved dishes.

Why Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells Hit The Spot

• Unleash Philly Cheesesteak Flavors: Dive into a mouthwatering twist on the classic sandwich by transforming iconic ingredients into creamy, cheesy stuffed pasta shells that burst with bold, meaty goodness.
• Effortless Gourmet Comfort: Create a restaurant-worthy meal with minimal prep time, blending simple cooking techniques and accessible ingredients that come together quickly for a satisfying dinner that impresses without stress.
• Crowd-Pleasing Crowd Delight: Perfect for family dinners, game nights, or potlucks, this recipe offers a playful fusion of Italian and American cuisines that appeals to both kids and adults with its irresistible cheesy, savory profile.
• Customizable Culinary Canvas: Easily adapt the recipe by swapping meats, adding extra veggies, or adjusting seasonings to suit personal tastes, making it a versatile dish that welcomes creativity and personal flair.

What’s In Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells

• Jumbo Shells: Large pasta shells perfect for stuffing, holds cheese and meat mixture well.

• Ground Beef, Shaved Steak: Rich protein base for classic Philly cheesesteak flavor, choose lean cuts for less grease.
• Onion, Bell Pepper: Adds traditional Philly cheesesteak vegetable components, provides crunch and sweetness.
• Garlic: Enhances overall depth of flavor, fresh garlic recommended for best taste.

• Cream Cheese, Mozzarella, Provolone: Creamy cheese blend that creates rich, melty texture, use full-fat versions for best results.
• Heavy Cream: Adds smoothness and helps bind cheese mixture, helps prevent dryness.
• Alfredo Sauce: Provides additional creaminess and moisture to the dish.

• Worcestershire Sauce: Adds complex savory undertones, classic cheesesteak flavor booster.
• Salt, Black Pepper: Basic seasoning for meat and overall dish.
• Onion Powder, Paprika: Adds extra depth and subtle spice, enhances overall flavor profile.

• Fresh Parsley: Provides fresh color and light herbal note, completely optional.

How To Make Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells At Home

Step 1: Boil Pasta Shells

Grab a large pot and fill it with water. Sprinkle in some salt and bring the water to a rolling boil. Toss in the jumbo pasta shells and cook them until they’re perfectly tender. Once done, drain the shells and give them a quick rinse with cool water. Let them hang out while you prepare the other ingredients.

Step 2: Cook Savory Meat Mixture

• Diced onions
• Chopped bell peppers
• Minced garlic

• Salt
• Black pepper
• Onion powder
• Paprika

Give everything a good stir and then let the mixture cool down slightly.

Step 3: Create Creamy Cheese Blend

• Cream cheese
• Shredded mozzarella
• Shredded provolone
• Heavy cream

Fold in the cooked meat and vegetable mixture until everything is well incorporated.

Step 4: Prepare Baking Dish

Crank up the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread a thin layer of Alfredo sauce across the bottom. Carefully stuff each pasta shell with the cheesy meat mixture and nestle them into the sauce-covered dish.

Step 5: Add Final Cheese Layer

Drizzle the remaining Alfredo sauce over the stuffed shells. Sprinkle an extra handful of provolone or mozzarella cheese on top for that irresistible golden-brown finish.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish with foil and slide it into the preheated oven. Bake for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes. You’re looking for a bubbly, melted cheese topping with gorgeous golden edges.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Let the stuffed shells rest for a few minutes to cool down. If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle some chopped parsley on top. Serve these cheesy delights while they’re warm and watch everyone’s eyes light up!

Smart Prep Tips For Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells

• Perfectly Cook Pasta Shells: Ensure shells are al dente by following package instructions and immediately rinsing with cold water to stop cooking process, preventing soggy textures.
• Boost Flavor Depth: Add Worcestershire sauce and spices like onion powder and paprika to elevate the beef mixture's taste profile, creating a more complex and rich filling.
• Control Cheese Consistency: Mix cream cheese with shredded cheeses and heavy cream for a smooth, creamy texture that binds the filling together without becoming too runny.
• Prevent Dry Shells: Spread a thin Alfredo sauce layer at the bottom of the baking dish and cover with foil during initial baking to keep stuffed shells moist and prevent burning.
• Customize for Dietary Needs: Swap ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based meat alternatives, and use lactose-free cheese for a more inclusive recipe that accommodates different dietary restrictions.

Store And Reheat Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells Without Fuss

• Refrigerate: Transfer any leftover stuffed shells to an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, keeping the dish tightly sealed to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth.
• Freeze: Wrap the cooled stuffed shells individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months, ensuring you label the container with the date to track storage time.
• Reheat in Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the shells in a baking dish, cover with foil to prevent drying, and warm for 15-20 minutes until heated thoroughly. Remove the foil in the last 5 minutes to restore cheese's crispy texture.
• Microwave Option: For quick reheating, place shells on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval to ensure even warming.

Great Pairings For Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells

• Savor Robust Red Wine Pairing: Complement the rich, meaty flavors of the Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells with a bold red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec. These wines cut through the creamy cheese and enhance the savory beef notes.
• Craft a Crisp Beer Companion: Enjoy a cold, hoppy IPA or a smooth amber ale that balances the dish's richness. The beer's carbonation helps cleanse the palate between bites, making each mouthful feel fresh and exciting.
• Create a Zesty Side Salad: Whip up a light, tangy green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a bright vinaigrette. The salad's acidity will provide a refreshing contrast to the heavy, cheesy shells, creating a perfectly balanced meal.
• Add Pickled Vegetable Accent: Serve quick-pickled jalapeños or banana peppers on the side to add a zingy, spicy kick that cuts through the dish's creaminess. These pickled veggies bring an unexpected and delightful flavor dimension to the meal.

Try These Twists On Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells

• Spicy Southwest Shells: Replace standard seasonings with chipotle powder, cumin, and chili flakes. Add diced jalapeños to the beef mixture for extra heat. Swap provolone for pepper jack cheese to amplify the southwestern flavor profile.
• Mediterranean Fusion Shells: Substitute ground beef with ground lamb. Incorporate crumbled feta cheese and chopped kalamata olives into the filling. Season with oregano, mint, and garlic for a Greek-inspired variation.
• Vegetarian Mushroom Shells: Replace beef with sautéed portobello mushrooms and cremini mushrooms. Add roasted garlic and thyme for depth. Use plant-based cream cheese and mozzarella alternatives to keep the creamy texture.
• Philly Chicken Version: Swap beef with shredded rotisserie chicken. Mix in caramelized onions and use Swiss cheese instead of provolone. Add a splash of white wine during chicken cooking for enhanced flavor complexity.

Common Questions About Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells

• What makes this Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells recipe unique?

This recipe combines the classic Philly cheesesteak flavors with pasta shells, creating a delicious fusion dish that brings together the best of both worlds – the iconic sandwich and comforting pasta.

• Can I use different types of meat for this recipe?

Yes! While the recipe calls for ground beef or shaved steak, you can easily substitute with thinly sliced ribeye, ground turkey, or even a plant-based meat alternative to suit your preferences.

• Is this recipe considered a main course or side dish?

This Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells is definitely a hearty main course. It’s packed with protein, cheese, and vegetables, making it a complete and satisfying meal that can feed a hungry family or group of friends.

• How can I make this recipe more budget-friendly?

To keep costs down, look for sales on ground beef or steak, use less expensive cheese options like cheddar, and buy pasta shells in bulk. You can also prep this dish in advance and freeze portions for later, maximizing your ingredients and saving money.

Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells Recipe

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4.7 from 25 reviews

• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Creamy Philly cheesesteak stuffed shells bring Philadelphia’s iconic sandwich into a comforting pasta dish, blending robust beef, melted cheese, and tender pasta shells. Hearty flavors merge seamlessly, offering you a delicious twist on classic comfort food that satisfies with every cheesy, meaty bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 1 pound (450 g) ground beef or shaved steak

Vegetables and Aromatics:

• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 small green bell pepper, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Seasonings and Spices:

• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Pasta:

• 20 jumbo pasta shells (about ½ a 12-ounce box)

Cheese Mixture:

• 4 ounces (115 g) cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup (50 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup (50 g) shredded provolone cheese
• ¼ cup (60 ml) heavy cream

Topping:

• 1 cup (100 g) shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup (240 ml) Alfredo sauce (or substitute with heavy cream mixed with ¼ cup Parmesan cheese)

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Instructions

1. Prepare pasta shells by immersing them in generously salted boiling water. Cook until tender yet firm, following package guidelines. Carefully drain and rinse with cold water to halt cooking process.
2. Sizzle olive oil in a spacious skillet over medium heat. Introduce ground beef or shaved steak, crumbling and browning thoroughly. Incorporate diced onions, vibrant bell peppers, and minced garlic, sautéing until vegetables soften and release their aromatic essence.
3. Enhance the meat mixture with Worcestershire sauce, introducing layers of savory depth. Season generously with salt, cracked pepper, onion powder, and a whisper of paprika. Allow the mixture to cool slightly, intensifying its robust flavors.
4. Create a luxurious cheese blend by combining cream cheese, mozzarella, and provolone. Fold in the cooled meat and vegetable mixture, ensuring harmonious integration of textures and flavors.
5. Preheat the oven to 375F, establishing an ideal baking environment. Spread a silky layer of Alfredo sauce across the bottom of a rectangular baking dish, creating a flavorful foundation.
6. Meticulously stuff each pasta shell with the decadent meat and cheese filling, nestling them carefully in the prepared baking dish. Drape the remaining Alfredo sauce over the shells, creating a luscious coating.
7. Generously sprinkle additional provolone or mozzarella across the top, promising a golden, melted cheese canopy.
8. Envelop the dish in aluminum foil, then bake for 20 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Uncover and continue baking until the cheese transforms into a bubbling, golden masterpiece.
9. Rest the dish for a brief moment, allowing the filling to settle. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh herbaceous note. Serve piping hot, revealing the molten, flavor-packed interior.

Notes

• Toast pasta shells briefly before boiling to enhance their flavor and prevent them from becoming too soft during baking.
• Select high-quality, thinly sliced beef or ask your butcher to shave the meat for authentic Philly cheesesteak texture.
• Drain excess fat from cooked beef to prevent the dish from becoming greasy and ensure a cleaner, more concentrated flavor profile.
• Consider using lean ground beef or turkey for a lighter version of this indulgent recipe, maintaining similar taste and texture.
• Swap dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives like vegan cream cheese and dairy-free mozzarella to create a delicious lactose-free option.
• Add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the filling for those who enjoy a spicier kick in their cheesy shells.
• Prep shells ahead of time and refrigerate before baking, which allows flavors to meld and makes weeknight dinner preparation easier.

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 490
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 850 mg
• Fat: 28 g
• Saturated Fat: 14 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 1 g
• Carbohydrates: 36 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 25 g
• Cholesterol: 85 mg