Introduction
Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells are an innovative twist on the classic Philly cheesesteak, combining the iconic flavors of a cheesesteak sandwich with the comforting, cheesy goodness of stuffed pasta shells.
This hearty dish is filled with tender steak, sautéed peppers and onions, and gooey melted cheese, all nestled inside large pasta shells and baked to perfection.
It’s a perfect option for anyone craving the savory flavors of a cheesesteak but looking for a fun and filling alternative to a sandwich.
Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Origin and Cultural Significance
The cheesesteak sandwich, famously associated with Philadelphia, is a beloved American classic that dates back to the 1930s
Invented by Pat Oliviero and later popularized by Pat’s King of Steaks and Geno’s Steaks in Philadelphia, the sandwich has become a symbol of the city’s culinary identity.
It typically features thinly sliced beef, sautéed onions, and melted cheese, all packed into a hoagie roll.
Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells are a modern variation that brings the bold, savory flavors of the classic sandwich into the realm of pasta.
By combining Italian pasta with American comfort food, this dish merges two beloved culinary traditions—Italian and American—into one satisfying meal.
While not part of traditional Italian or American cuisine, the fusion of these flavors has gained popularity in home kitchens, especially in the form of stuffed pasta recipes.
Ingredients Quantity
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Large pasta shells – 16-20 shells, depending on the size of your pan
- Ground beef or thinly sliced ribeye steak – 1 pound
- Bell peppers – 1 red and 1 green, sliced
- Onion – 1 large, sliced
- Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
- Cream cheese – 4 ounces (for added creaminess)
- Shredded mozzarella cheese – 2 cups
- Provolone cheese – 1 cup, sliced or shredded
- Cheddar cheese – 1 cup, shredded
- Olive oil – 1 tablespoon (for sautéing)
- Salt and pepper – to taste
- Italian seasoning – 1 teaspoon
- Marinara sauce – 2 cups (optional, for serving)
- Fresh parsley – chopped (for garnish)
Optional Additions
- Mushrooms – 1 cup, sliced, for an earthy flavor
- Hot peppers – for a spicy kick
- Spinach – sautéed, for extra greens
- Worcestershire sauce – a teaspoon for added depth of flavor in the beef
- Crushed red pepper flakes – if you want some heat in the filling
- Balsamic vinegar – a splash for a touch of sweetness in the onions and peppers
Tips for Success
- Cook the pasta shells al dente: Make sure to cook the shells just until they’re firm to the bite, as they’ll continue cooking in the oven. This ensures they don’t become too soft or mushy.
- Drain and dry the shells: After cooking the pasta, drain them well and place them on a clean kitchen towel to prevent them from sticking together.
- Season the beef properly: Don’t forget to season the beef mixture with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to bring out the flavors.
- Be generous with cheese: For that authentic cheesesteak taste, don’t skimp on the cheese. Layering mozzarella, provolone, and cheddar creates a rich, melty filling.
- Use a baking dish with enough space: Ensure your baking dish is large enough to accommodate the stuffed shells without crowding them too much.
- Let the dish rest: Allow the stuffed shells to rest for 10–15 minutes after baking. This makes it easier to serve and helps the flavors settle.
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the pasta shells: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the beef and vegetables: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions, bell peppers, and garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are soft and slightly caramelized, about 8 minutes. Add the ground beef (or sliced ribeye steak) and cook until browned. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. If using Worcestershire sauce or hot peppers, add them at this stage. Remove from heat and stir in the cream cheese until melted and combined.
- Stuff the shells: Stuff each cooked pasta shell with a generous amount of the beef and vegetable mixture. Place the stuffed shells in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Top with cheese: Sprinkle the stuffed shells with shredded mozzarella, provolone, and cheddar cheese.
- Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve: Let the stuffed shells rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley. Optionally, serve with marinara sauce on the side.
Description
Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells are a delightful fusion of two comfort food favorites—cheesesteaks and pasta.
The large pasta shells are filled with a savory mixture of seasoned ground beef or steak, sautéed peppers and onions, and melted cream cheese.
The stuffed shells are then baked with a trio of melted cheeses, including mozzarella, provolone, and cheddar, creating a cheesy, gooey, and utterly satisfying dish.
The combination of tender pasta and flavorful beef with the creamy, melted cheese ensures each bite is as delicious as the next.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)
- Calories: 450–500
- Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Protein: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Calcium: 25% of daily value
Note: Nutritional values will vary depending on the exact ingredients used and serving size.
Conclusion
Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells offer a delicious twist on the traditional Philly cheesesteak sandwich, transforming it into a hearty and flavorful pasta dish.
With its layers of creamy cheese, tender beef, and sautéed vegetables, it’s the perfect comfort food for any occasion.
Whether you’re a fan of classic cheesesteaks or just looking to try something new, this dish is sure to be a hit at the dinner table.
Recommendation
For a complete meal, pair Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells with a side salad or garlic bread.
To add more veggies and freshness, try a simple green salad with a balsamic vinaigrette.
If you’re serving this dish for a crowd, consider doubling the recipe to ensure everyone gets a satisfying portion.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
While Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells are undeniably indulgent, there are ways to make them a bit lighter without sacrificing flavor.
Consider using lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lower-fat option.
You can also swap some of the cheese for lighter varieties or use whole wheat pasta shells for added fiber.
If you’re looking to incorporate more vegetables, adding spinach or mushrooms to the filling will increase the dish’s nutritional value.
By making small adjustments, you can enjoy a delicious, healthier version of this indulgent meal!