Hearty Prime Rib Cheese Steak Pasta for Family Dinners

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, cheesy pasta dish loaded with tender, flavorful beef. This Hearty Prime Rib Cheese Steak Pasta is the ultimate family dinner recipe that brings everyone together around the table. Perfect for cozy evenings, weekend family gatherings, or even a special weeknight treat, this recipe combines the richness of prime rib with gooey melted cheese, fresh vegetables, and perfectly cooked pasta for a satisfying meal that everyone will love.

The inspiration for this dish comes from a classic Philly cheesesteak, but with a twist that transforms it into a pasta-centered dinner. Using leftover prime rib or freshly cooked beef, this recipe makes for an indulgent yet approachable meal that can become a new family favorite. Every bite is a combination of tender beef, melty cheese, and pasta coated in a creamy, flavorful sauce—truly comfort food at its finest.

Ingredients

• 12 ounces penne or rigatoni pasta

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 pound prime rib, thinly sliced or chopped

• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced

• 1 bell pepper (red or green), thinly sliced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 1 1/2 cups whole milk

• 1/2 cup heavy cream

• 1 cup shredded provolone cheese

• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Directions

Cook the pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add a generous pinch of salt to the water—it helps season the pasta from the inside out and enhances its flavor. Once the water is boiling, carefully add your choice of pasta, whether penne, rigatoni, or another sturdy shape that will hold the sauce well. Stir occasionally to prevent the noodles from sticking together. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it reaches al dente perfection—tender but still slightly firm to the bite. This texture is important because the pasta will continue to absorb the rich cheese sauce later, and overcooked pasta could become mushy. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander, giving it a gentle shake to remove excess water. Set it aside in a warm bowl or back in the pot with the lid on to keep it from cooling down while you prepare the rest of the dish.

Sauté the vegetables: Next, prepare the vegetable base, which adds both flavor and color to the dish. Heat olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the thinly sliced onions and bell peppers. These vegetables should be cut evenly so they cook uniformly. Stir them occasionally, allowing them to soften and caramelize slightly, releasing their natural sweetness, which balances the richness of the prime rib. This process usually takes 5–6 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic, stirring constantly for about 1 minute until fragrant. Garlic cooks quickly, so be careful not to burn it, as it can develop a bitter taste. The result should be a vibrant mix of tender vegetables with a rich, aromatic base that will infuse the beef and cheese sauce with flavor.

Cook the prime rib: Once the vegetables are tender and aromatic, it’s time to add the star of the dish: the prime rib. Whether using freshly cooked beef or leftover prime rib, slice it thinly so it heats quickly and evenly. Add the beef to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables, spreading it out in a single layer if possible. Cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is heated through and develops a light, savory browning on the edges. This step enhances the flavor through gentle caramelization. Season the mixture with Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. The Italian seasoning adds a hint of herbaceous depth, while smoked paprika provides a subtle warmth and smokiness that complements the beef beautifully. Taste occasionally and adjust seasoning as needed to achieve a balanced flavor profile.

Make the cheese sauce: Reduce the heat to medium-low to prepare the creamy cheese sauce. Sprinkle the flour evenly over the meat and vegetable mixture, stirring constantly for 1–2 minutes. Cooking the flour removes the raw taste and ensures the sauce thickens properly. Gradually pour in the milk and heavy cream in a slow, steady stream, whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Continue to whisk as the mixture thickens, which should take 3–4 minutes. The sauce should become smooth, velvety, and slightly thickened, coating the back of a spoon. This step is essential for achieving a creamy, indulgent consistency that envelops the pasta and beef.

Add the cheese: Once the sauce has thickened, reduce heat slightly and stir in the cheeses—provolone, mozzarella, and Parmesan—one at a time. Allow each cheese to melt completely before adding the next, ensuring a smooth, creamy texture without clumps. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or Italian herbs as desired. If you enjoy a hint of heat, sprinkle in crushed red pepper flakes. The cheeses should meld together to form a luscious, gooey sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta and beef.

Combine with pasta: Carefully add the cooked pasta to the skillet, gently tossing it with the sauce, vegetables, and beef. Use tongs or a large spoon to coat each piece of pasta evenly, ensuring every bite is filled with flavor. Allow the pasta to heat in the sauce for 2–3 minutes over low heat so that the noodles absorb some of the cheesy goodness, creating a cohesive and satisfying dish. Be gentle when tossing to avoid breaking the pasta or over-stirring.

Serve: Transfer the pasta to a large serving dish or divide it among individual plates. For a finishing touch, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and a subtle fresh flavor. Sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese on top if desired for extra richness. Serve immediately while the pasta is hot, cheesy, and perfectly indulgent. The combination of tender beef, savory vegetables, and creamy cheese sauce ensures every bite is packed with comfort and flavor, making this Hearty Prime Rib Cheese Steak Pasta a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for family dinners.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 25 minutes

• Total Time: 40 minutes

• Yield: 4–6 servings

Notes

• Leftover prime rib: This recipe works beautifully with leftover prime rib. Simply slice it thinly and heat gently to avoid overcooking.

• Vegetable variations: You can add mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini to increase the vegetable content.

• Cheese swap: If provolone isn’t available, Monterey Jack or Fontina can be excellent alternatives.

• Make it spicy: For those who love a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes.

• Make-ahead option: The cheese sauce can be prepared a day in advance. Store in the refrigerator and reheat gently before combining with the pasta.

Why This Recipe Works for Family Dinners

This Hearty Prime Rib Cheese Steak Pasta is not just a meal; it’s an experience. The creamy cheese sauce envelops tender beef and vegetables, creating a perfect balance of flavor and texture. Families love this dish because it’s easy to prepare, uses accessible ingredients, and can feed a crowd without requiring complicated steps.

Its adaptability makes it ideal for various occasions. Whether you’re hosting a casual Sunday dinner, celebrating a small holiday gathering, or simply want a comforting weeknight meal, this pasta dish delivers satisfaction in every bite. It’s also a fantastic way to elevate leftover prime rib, giving it a second life in a deliciously indulgent form.

Tips for Perfect Cheese Steak Pasta Every Time

1. Use high-quality beef: The better the prime rib, the more flavorful the dish. If using leftovers, ensure the meat hasn’t dried out.

2. Cook vegetables properly: Sauté onions and peppers until soft but still slightly crisp to maintain texture.

3. Don’t overheat cheese: Stir cheese into the sauce on medium-low heat to prevent separation.

4. Pasta texture matters: Cook pasta just to al dente. It will absorb some sauce but remain firm to the bite.

5. Balance flavors: Taste as you go. The combination of salt, pepper, and seasonings ensures the dish is flavorful without being overpowering.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes! Penne, rigatoni, fusilli, or even farfalle work beautifully with this recipe. Choose a pasta that can hold the sauce well.

2. Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely. Swap prime rib for hearty vegetables like mushrooms, eggplant, or plant-based beef alternatives. Use vegetable broth to enhance the sauce’s flavor.

3. How long can leftovers be stored?
Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of milk to maintain creaminess.

4. Can I freeze this pasta?
Yes, but it’s best to freeze the pasta and sauce separately. The cheese sauce can sometimes separate upon thawing, so gentle reheating with additional milk or cream restores its creamy texture.

Make It a Family Tradition

This recipe isn’t just about the food—it’s about the memories made while enjoying it. Gather your family around the table, pair the pasta with a fresh side salad or garlic bread, and watch the smiles as everyone digs in. Its combination of rich flavors, hearty protein, and creamy cheese makes it perfect for creating special moments.

The Hearty Prime Rib Cheese Steak Pasta can easily become a weekly family favorite, a dish that everyone looks forward to, and a meal that brings comfort and warmth to any dining table. Whether it’s a casual night in or a celebratory dinner, this recipe ensures every bite is packed with satisfaction.

Hearty Prime Rib Cheese Steak Pasta for Family Dinners

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• Author: Michelle Davis
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4–6 servings 1x

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Description

There’s something irresistible about a cheesy, hearty pasta dish loaded with tender prime rib. This Hearty Prime Rib Cheese Steak Pasta is perfect for cozy family dinners, weekend gatherings, or special weeknight meals. Inspired by the classic Philly cheesesteak, this recipe transforms the beloved flavors into a creamy, comforting pasta dish that brings everyone together. With tender beef, sautéed vegetables, and a rich cheese sauce coating every noodle, it’s the ultimate comfort food that will quickly become a family favorite.

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Ingredients

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• 12 ounces penne or rigatoni pasta

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 pound prime rib, thinly sliced or chopped

• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced

• 1 bell pepper (red or green), thinly sliced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 1 1/2 cups whole milk

• 1/2 cup heavy cream

• 1 cup shredded provolone cheese

• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

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Instructions

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

• In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and bell peppers, cooking for 5–6 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.

• Add the thinly sliced prime rib to the pan with the vegetables. Cook for 3–4 minutes until heated through and lightly browned. Season with Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.

• Reduce heat to medium-low. Sprinkle the flour over the meat and vegetable mixture, stirring constantly for 1–2 minutes to cook the raw flour taste. Gradually pour in the milk and heavy cream while whisking continuously until smooth and slightly thickened, about 3–4 minutes.

• Stir in the provolone, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese until melted and fully incorporated into a creamy sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Add crushed red pepper flakes for a slight kick if desired.

• Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing gently to coat the noodles evenly with the cheese and beef mixture. Heat for 2–3 minutes to ensure everything is warmed through.

• Transfer the pasta to a serving dish or individual plates. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately while hot and cheesy.

Notes

• This recipe works well with leftover prime rib; simply slice thinly and heat gently.

• Add vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.

• Substitute cheeses if desired: Monterey Jack, Fontina, or cheddar work well.

• For a bit of spice, add crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne.

• The cheese sauce can be made a day ahead and reheated gently before combining with pasta.

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently with a splash of milk to maintain creaminess.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes

Michelle Davis