Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells Recipe

If you crave the rich, hearty flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak but are looking for a fun, comforting twist, then the Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells Recipe is about to become your new favorite. This dish marries tender jumbo pasta shells with savory ground beef, sautéed onions and bell peppers, and gooey cheddar cheese, all brought together with a luscious cheese sauce that takes indulgence to another level. It’s like your favorite sandwich transformed into a warm, cheesy casserole that’s perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or anytime you need a cozy, satisfying meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward and easily found but each one plays a crucial role in making the Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells Recipe pop with flavor and texture. From the lean ground beef providing savory depth, to the buttery sautéed veggies adding sweetness and color, these essentials combine perfectly to create an irresistible dish.

• 1 pound lean ground beef: This provides the hearty, meaty base that mimics the classic cheesesteak filling while keeping it lean.
• 2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness when sautéing the vegetables, enhancing their natural sweetness.
• 1 small onion (peeled and diced): Offers a sharp, savory bite that softens beautifully as it cooks.
• 1 green bell pepper (seeded and diced): Brings a subtle crunch and bright green color that livens up the dish.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Delivers umami and a slight tang that deepens the beef flavor.
• 2 tablespoons ketchup: Adds a touch of sweetness and acidity, balancing the savory elements.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors and seasoning the beef mixture.
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper: Adds a gentle kick of spice and warmth.
• 8 ounces cheddar cheese (cut into 1/2 inch cubes): Melts into gooey pockets of deliciousness within the stuffed shells and sauce.
• 24 jumbo pasta shells (cooked according to package directions): The perfect vessel to hold the flavorful beef and cheese filling.
• 1 cup milk: Creates a creamy base for the luscious cheese sauce.
• 1 cup beef broth: Enhances the savory quality of the sauce while keeping it light.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Helps thicken the cheese sauce for that velvety texture that clings to every bite.

How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures it’s ready to go once your stuffed shells are assembled, helping the cheese melt evenly and binding all those amazing flavors together in a perfectly baked dish.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and crumble in the ground beef. Cook it until fully browned and no pink remains. This step is crucial because well-cooked beef provides that satisfying, meaty foundation for your stuffed shells. Once done, drain the fat and set the beef aside so the next ingredients can shine in the same pan.

Step 3: Sauté the Onions and Bell Pepper

Using the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add diced onions and green bell peppers, sautéing until they soften and release their natural sweetness—about five minutes. These vegetables add a vibrant texture and sweet contrast that balance the savory beef beautifully.

Step 4: Build the Filling

Return the browned beef to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, salt, and pepper. This flavor bomb of seasonings is what sets this Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells Recipe apart, adding tang and depth. Let everything cook together for a couple of minutes to marry the tastes.

Step 5: Stuff Those Shells

Now, grab your cooked jumbo pasta shells and start filling each one generously with the beef and veggie mixture. Place the stuffed shells neatly in a glass baking dish in an even layer so they’re easy to bake and serve.

Step 6: Add the Cheese Cubes

Stuff two cubes of cheddar cheese into each shell, nestled right inside the filling. This step guarantees pockets of gooey cheese melt inside every bite, creating that irresistible cheesesteak experience in pasta form.

Step 7: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan, whisk the milk, beef broth, and cornstarch together. Heat the mixture over medium heat until hot but not boiling, then stir in the remaining cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens into a smooth, creamy delight that will soak into every corner of the stuffed shells.

Step 8: Pour and Bake

Pour half of the luscious cheese sauce over the stuffed shells carefully, making sure they’re all coated. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes—just enough time for the cheese to melt perfectly over the filling, creating that glorious golden top.

Step 9: Serve Hot and Enjoy

Remove the dish from the oven and serve immediately with the remaining cheese sauce on the side. The warmth and gooey texture make this meal utterly comforting and deeply satisfying.

How to Serve Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells Recipe

Garnishes

Freshly chopped parsley or chives add a burst of color and a subtle herbal brightness that cuts through the rich cheese sauce. For those who love a bit of heat, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top for a spicy kick that complements the savory beef beautifully.

Side Dishes

This dish is filling on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette brings balance and freshness to your meal. Roasted or steamed vegetables, like asparagus or broccoli, also provide a healthy, vibrant companion that highlights the richness of the Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells Recipe.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the stuffed shells in individual ramekins or mini cast iron skillets for single-person portions that look impressive at the dinner table. You can even sprinkle extra cheddar and broil them briefly to get a golden, bubbly top for an eye-catching finish that wows everyone.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes it a perfect meal to prepare in advance or save for a busy day when you still want something comforting and delicious.

Freezing

This recipe freezes wonderfully! Freeze the fully assembled (but unbaked) stuffed shells in a freezer-safe dish, tightly covered, for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.

Reheating

To reheat, cover the leftovers with foil and warm in a 350-degree oven for 15–20 minutes or until heated through. You can add a splash of milk or additional cheese sauce to keep everything moist and melty.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese for this recipe?

Absolutely! While cheddar cheese is classic for this recipe, you can switch it up with provolone, mozzarella, or even a blend of cheeses to suit your taste. Each will bring a slightly different flavor and melting behavior but will be delicious.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or sautéed mushrooms and add extra seasoning to capture that umami flavor. It’s a great way to enjoy the Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells Recipe without meat.

Can I prepare the filling the day before?

Definitely. Preparing the beef and veggie mixture a day ahead will save time. Just keep it refrigerated and assemble and bake the shells when you’re ready to serve, ensuring freshness and flavor.

What kind of pasta shells work best?

Jumbo pasta shells are ideal because their size allows for plenty of filling and cheese cubes. They hold the stuffing well during baking and create a satisfying bite every time.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes. Use gluten-free jumbo pasta shells and make sure your Worcestershire sauce and other condiments are gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this recipe adaptable for gluten sensitivities.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly joyful about turning a beloved sandwich into a hearty baked pasta dish, and this Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells Recipe brings that joy straight to your table. It’s comfort food elevated with fresh, vibrant ingredients and melted cheese that melts hearts as much as hunger. Next time you want to surprise your family or treat yourself, give this recipe a try—you’ll be so glad you did!

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