If you are craving a comforting, hearty meal that combines all the best flavors of a Philly cheesesteak with the ease of a slow cooker, you are in for a treat. This Crockpot Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole Recipe is a perfect weeknight dinner that brings together tender ground beef, sweet bell peppers, and melty provolone cheese in a creamy, savory pasta bake. The slow cooker does the magic, melding the flavors into a warm, satisfying casserole that your whole family will adore and have you coming back for seconds every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity and how each ingredient plays a pivotal role in building the flavor, texture, and visual appeal of this casserole. Nothing fancy, but everything essential.
- 1 pound ground beef: Provides hearty, savory protein with a rich, meaty base.
- 1 onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth as it softens and caramelizes with the beef.
- 1 green bell pepper, diced: Brings a sweet, fresh crunch and vibrant color to the dish.
- 1 red bell pepper, diced: Complements the green pepper with a slightly different sweetness and a pop of red.
- 2 cups pasta (penne or rotini): These shapes hold the sauce well, making every bite creamy and delicious.
- 2 cups shredded provolone cheese: Melts into gooey layers, mimicking the classic Philly cheesesteak melt.
- 1 cup beef broth: Adds moisture and a subtle beefy richness to keep the casserole juicy.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Infuses an umami boost with tangy, savory complexity.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the overall depth and savory notes.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Intensifies the onion flavor without extra chopping.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to balance and brighten all the flavors.
How to Make Crockpot Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start with cooking your pasta until it is al dente. This is crucial because you don’t want mushy pasta in your casserole after slow cooking. Once cooked, drain it well and set it aside. This will form the comforting, chewy base of your casserole.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef and Sauté Vegetables
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until no pink remains. Then toss in the diced onion, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper. Cook until these soften and start to release their sweetness, developing the dish’s signature Philly cheesesteak aroma.
Step 3: Layer the Casserole in the Crockpot
Time to build the casserole. Spread half of the cooked pasta at the bottom of the crockpot, then add half of your beef and vegetable mixture evenly over it. Layering builds flavor concentration and ensures every bite is balanced.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
Sprinkle half of the shredded provolone cheese over the first layer. It will melt slowly and act like a glue that holds the casserole’s creamy texture together while adding a dreamy layer of cheesiness.
Step 5: Repeat the Layers
Repeat the process with the remaining pasta, then the beef mixture, and finish off with the rest of the provolone cheese on top. This double-layer technique guarantees plenty of cheesy, meaty bites throughout the casserole.
Step 6: Mix and Pour the Liquid
In a small bowl, whisk together beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Pour this evenly over the layered ingredients in the crockpot. This flavorful liquid keeps the casserole moist and infuses it with that authentic cheesesteak zest.
Step 7: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover your crockpot and set it to cook on low for 3 to 4 hours. During this time, the flavors meld beautifully, the cheese melts into a luscious sauce, and the casserole becomes irresistibly creamy and hot—ready for your dinner table.
How to Serve Crockpot Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Top your hot casserole with freshly chopped parsley or green onions for a fresh, vibrant finish. You could also sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes if you’re feeling adventurous and want a little heat that contrasts beautifully with the creamy cheese.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with simple side salads featuring tangy vinaigrettes to cut through the richness. Roasted or steamed green vegetables like broccoli or green beans also bring fresh color and nutrition to the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For casual family dinners, serve it straight from the crockpot for easy, no-fuss style. For a fancier touch, bake individual portions in small ramekins and broil the cheese topping for a golden, bubbly finish that looks restaurant-worthy.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer leftovers to an airtight container. They will keep well in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days, giving you plenty of chances to enjoy this comforting casserole all over again.
Freezing
This Crockpot Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole Recipe freezes beautifully. Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the best texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftover casserole in the microwave or oven. If using the oven, cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20 minutes. This keeps the pasta tender and the cheese gooey without drying out.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese?
Absolutely! Provolone is classic for Philly cheesesteak flavors, but you can substitute mozzarella, cheddar, or even a cheese blend based on what you have on hand or your personal preference.
Is it necessary to cook the pasta before adding it to the crockpot?
Yes, cooking the pasta al dente beforehand prevents it from becoming mushy during slow cooking. It ensures the perfect texture in your casserole.
Can I add mushrooms or other vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to customize the recipe by adding sliced mushrooms, jalapeños for spice, or even some spinach for an extra veggie boost.
How do I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, swap the provolone cheese for a plant-based cheese alternative that melts well. Also, double-check the Worcestershire sauce ingredients or use a vegan substitute.
What if I don’t have a crockpot?
You can bake this casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30-40 minutes, covered with foil, until bubbly and heated through. Just adjust the layering similarly in a casserole dish.
Final Thoughts
This Crockpot Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole Recipe truly is a game-changer for those days when you want big flavors with minimal effort. With its comforting layers of beef, peppers, pasta, and cheese all slow-cooked to perfection, it’s sure to become one of your go-to family meals. Give it a try—you might just find a new favorite to add to your recipe rotation!
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Crockpot Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 to 4 hours
- Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes to 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 to 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Crockpot Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole combines the rich, savory flavors of a traditional Philly cheesesteak with tender pasta, all slow-cooked to creamy perfection. Featuring ground beef, sautéed onions and peppers, and melty provolone cheese, this comforting casserole is an easy make-ahead meal perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
Pasta and Cheese
- 2 cups pasta (penne or rotini)
- 2 cups shredded provolone cheese
Liquids and Seasonings
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook the pasta to al dente according to package instructions, then drain and set aside to cool.
- Brown the Beef and Sauté Vegetables: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Add the diced onion and bell peppers to the pan and cook until they are softened and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
- Layer Pasta and Meat in Crockpot: In the crockpot, layer half of the cooked pasta as the base. Top this with half of the beef and vegetable mixture evenly spread.
- Add Cheese Layer: Sprinkle half of the shredded provolone cheese over the meat and pasta layer to add creaminess and flavor.
- Repeat Layers: Repeat the layering with the remaining pasta, ground beef and vegetables, and cheese to create two even layers.
- Mix and Pour Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Pour this flavorful mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in the crockpot.
- Slow Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low heat for 3 to 4 hours until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and creamy, allowing flavors to meld together beautifully.
Notes
- For best results, use a well-fitting lid on your crockpot to retain moisture during cooking.
- You can substitute provolone cheese with mozzarella or cheddar if desired.
- Feel free to add sliced mushrooms or banana peppers for added flavor and texture.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the microwave or oven.
- If short on time, cook the casserole on high for 1.5 to 2 hours, but check periodically to avoid drying out.
