Philly cheesesteak stuffed shells

Name: Philly cheesesteak stuffed shells
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 ounces jumbo pasta shells; 1 pound thinly sliced steak sirloin or ribeye, cut into small pieces; 2 Tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion thinly sliced; 1 green bell pepper thinly sliced; 8 ounces mushrooms sliced; salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 cup beef broth; 8 ounces cream cheese softened; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese divided; 1 cup shredded provolone cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley; Cooking spray

Author: Clara Hastings

Published: July 15, 2025

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Introduction to Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells

Ah, the magic of combining my two favorite things: cheesy pasta and savory steak. If you’re like me, busy juggling family and work, the Philly cheesesteak stuffed shells are your new secret weapon in the kitchen! This dish isn’t only delicious but also a breeze to whip up after a hectic day. Just picture your loved ones gathered around the table, their eyes lighting up at the sight of these cheesy, meaty treasures. It’s a win-win: a recipe that pleases the crowd and frees up your valuable time. Let’s dive into this culinary delight!

Why You’ll Love This Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells

These Philly cheesesteak stuffed shells are pure comfort food bliss! They combine the rich flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak with the convenience of pasta. Plus, they come together quickly, making them perfect for busy weeknights or when entertaining. The gooey cheese and savory steak create a taste sensation that your family will adore. And let’s face it, who can resist a dish that feels like a hug on a plate?

Ingredients for Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells

Gathering the right ingredients is half the battle in creating these delightful Philly cheesesteak stuffed shells. Here’s what you’ll need to bring this dish to life:

Jumbo pasta shells: These serve as the perfectly shaped vessel for all the yumminess.
Thinly sliced steak sirloin or ribeye: Pot for these cuts for a tender and flavorful filling. You can also use leftover steak—just chop it into small pieces!
Olive oil: A staple in my kitchen, great for sautéing and adding depth to your flavors.
Onion: Thinly sliced onions bring sweetness and a lovely aroma as they cook. They’re the flavor base here!
Green bell pepper: This adds color and a delightful crunch. You could switch it for a red or yellow pepper if you prefer.
Mushrooms: Sliced mushrooms add earthy flavors and a soft texture. Feel free to experiment with different varieties!
Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to taste; they enhance all the other ingredients beautifully.
Garlic powder and onion powder: These are my go-to flavor boosters. They add layers of taste without extra chopping!
Beef broth: This helps to cook the steak and veggies, making everything juicy and flavorful.
Cream cheese: Softened cream cheese creates a rich, creamy texture in the stuffing. Trust me, it’s a game-changer!
Shredded mozzarella cheese: A melty favorite that brings everything together—don’t skimp on this one!
Shredded provolone cheese: This distinct flavor is what makes a classic Philly cheesesteak. If you can’t find it, use your favorite mild cheese instead.
Grated Parmesan cheese: A sprinkle of Parmesan adds that final touch of flavor, elevating your dish.
Chopped fresh parsley: This brightens up the dish, offering freshness and a pop of color on top.
Cooking spray: Just a light coat on your baking dish prevents sticking, making clean-up a breeze!

For detailed measurements, scroll to the bottom of the article where I’ve provided everything you’ll need for this recipe alongside printable options!

How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells

Now, let me guide you through making these irresistible Philly cheesesteak stuffed shells. Each step is quite simple, and you’ll see how everything comes together beautifully!

Step 1 – Preheat Your Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preheating is essential to getting those shells bubbly and golden. Trust me, it makes a world of difference in the final texture!

Step 2 – Cook the Jumbo Pasta Shells

Next, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the jumbo pasta shells! Cook them according to the package instructions, but aim for al dente. They should be tender yet firm. Drain and set aside, letting them cool slightly.

Step 3 – Sauté the Steak

In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the thinly sliced steak. Sauté it until it’s no longer pink, which should take just a few minutes. Once done, remove it from the skillet and set it aside. This juicy steak is the star of our show!

Step 4 – Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, pour in a little more olive oil if needed. Add the sliced onion, green bell pepper, and mushrooms. Sauté them until they’re tender; around 5-7 minutes should do. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. The aroma will lift your spirits!

Step 5 – Combine Steak and Vegetables

Now it’s time to bring the flavors together! Return the cooked steak to the skillet with the sautéed veggies. Pour in the beef broth and let it simmer for a few minutes, letting the flavors meld and most of the liquid evaporate. This step is flavor town!

Step 6 – Prepare the Cheese Mixture

Grab a mixing bowl and combine the softened cream cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, provolone, Parmesan, and chopped parsley. Mix until everything is well blended. This creamy goodness is going to elevate our shells to new heights!

Step 7 – Stuff the Shells

Take each cooked jumbo shell and stuff it generously with the cheese mixture, then top with a spoonful of the steak and vegetable mixture. Gently place them in a baking dish that you’ve coated with cooking spray. This is where they start turning into a masterpiece!

Step 8 – Bake the Stuffed Shells

Once all the shells are snugly arranged in the dish, sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top. Cover the baking dish with foil and pop it in the oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes until everything is melted and bubbly. For that perfect finish, uncover and bake for another 5-10 minutes to let the tops lightly brown. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!

Tips for Success

Always taste your filling while cooking. Adjust the seasoning as needed!
Don’t overcook the pasta; it will continue cooking in the oven.
Feel free to mix in some spicy jalapeños for a kick!
Let the stuffed shells cool slightly before serving for easier handling.
Make extra! These hold up wonderfully for leftovers or meal prep.

Equipment Needed

Large pot: For boiling pasta. A deep skillet works if you don’t have one.
Large skillet: For sautéing the steak and veggies. Any non-stick pan can do the trick.
Mixing bowl: To combine cheese mixtures. A regular bowl works just as well.
Baking dish: For cooking the stuffed shells. You can use a casserole dish instead.
Cooking spray: To prevent sticking. Olive oil can serve as a substitute.

Variations

Chicken or Turkey: Swap out steak for ground chicken or turkey for a lighter twist.
Vegetarian Option: Replace meat with a hearty mix of diced zucchini, spinach, or additional mushrooms to create a veggie version.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the filling for some heat!
Different Cheeses: Experiment with cheeses like gouda or cheddar for unique flavor profiles.
Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cream cheese and plant-based cheeses to make this recipe suitable for a dairy-free diet.

Serving Suggestions for Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells

Pair with a fresh green salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette for a light side dish.
Serve with crusty garlic bread to soak up the cheesy goodness.
Offer a selection of beverages like iced tea or a light beer.
Garnish the shells with additional parsley for a vibrant presentation.

FAQs about Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells

Can I make the Philly cheesesteak stuffed shells ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed shells a day in advance. Just cover and refrigerate them before baking. When you’re ready, pop them in the oven, adjusting the baking time as needed.

What kind of steak is best for this recipe? Thinly sliced steak sirloin or ribeye works wonders. However, feel free to use beef leftovers or even pre-cooked steak to save time.

Can I freeze the stuffed shells? Yes, these Philly cheesesteak stuffed shells freeze beautifully! Just make sure to freeze them before baking, and when you’re ready, simply bake from frozen, adding a little extra time to ensure they’re heated through.

What’s a good side dish to serve with this meal? A fresh green salad or some garlic bread pairs perfectly with the richness of the stuffed shells. It creates a wonderful balance on your plate!

Can I use gluten-free pasta for this recipe? Absolutely! Just look for gluten-free jumbo pasta shells at your local grocery store. They work just as well in creating this delightful dish.

Final Thoughts

Creating these Philly cheesesteak stuffed shells feels like a delightful celebration in my kitchen! Each bite brings together comforting flavors that remind me of family gatherings and cozy evenings. The joy of watching my loved ones savor these cheesy, steak-filled wonders is absolutely priceless. Plus, knowing I can whip them up quickly on a busy weeknight? That’s just icing on the cake! Whether it’s a special occasion or a casual dinner, this dish truly brings happiness to the table. I can’t wait for you to experience this comforting delight!