HomeCrockpot Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole
Crockpot Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Hands-Off Cooking : Let your crockpot do the work while you relax or tackle other tasks.
Flavorful & Hearty : Packed with savory beef, caramelized veggies, and creamy cheese sauce.
Customizable : Add mushrooms, swap cheeses, or adjust spice levels to suit your taste.
One-Pot Wonder : Minimal cleanup makes this dish as practical as it is delicious.
Kid-Friendly : Even picky eaters will love the cheesy, beefy goodness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Serves 6–8
For the Casserole:
1 lb ground beef (or thinly sliced steak strips for a more authentic Philly cheesesteak)
1 medium onion , sliced
1 red bell pepper , sliced
1 green bell pepper , sliced
3 cloves garlic , minced
1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce (or homemade if preferred)
2 cups beef broth
2 cups uncooked pasta (penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni work well)
8 oz cream cheese , softened and cubed
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup shredded provolone cheese
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper , to taste
Optional Toppings:
Fresh parsley, chopped
Crushed red pepper flakes
Extra shredded cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Beef and Veggies
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef (or sear the steak strips) until no longer pink. Drain excess fat if needed.
Add the sliced onions and peppers to the skillet and sauté for 5–7 minutes , until softened and slightly caramelized. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute , until fragrant.
Step 2: Assemble in the Crockpot
Transfer the beef and veggie mixture to your crockpot.
Add the marinara sauce, beef broth, uncooked pasta, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until evenly combined.
Step 3: Slow Cook
Cover and cook on LOW for 4–6 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours , or until the pasta is tender and the flavors have melded together. Stir occasionally if possible to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
During the last 15–20 minutes of cooking, stir in the cream cheese, mozzarella, and provolone cheeses. Cover and let the cheese melt into the casserole, creating a rich, creamy sauce.
Step 5: Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Garnish with fresh parsley or crushed red pepper flakes before serving.
Why This Recipe Works
Crockpot Magic : The slow cooker ensures tender beef, perfectly cooked pasta, and deep flavor infusion without constant attention.
Cheese Perfection : Cream cheese, mozzarella, and provolone create a luscious, melty sauce that ties everything together.
Classic Philly Flavors : The combination of beef, peppers, onions, and cheese captures the essence of a Philly cheesesteak in casserole form.
Variations to Try
Add Mushrooms : Sauté sliced mushrooms with the onions and peppers for extra umami flavor.
Spice It Up : Stir in diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Gluten-Free Option : Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your marinara sauce is GF-friendly.
Veggie-Friendly : Swap the beef for plant-based protein like lentils or crumbled tofu.
Extra Cheesy : Top with additional shredded cheese or a drizzle of Alfredo sauce before serving.
Tips for Success
Don’t Overcook the Pasta : Add the pasta during the last 2–3 hours of cooking to prevent it from becoming mushy.
Stir Occasionally : If possible, give the casserole a quick stir halfway through cooking to ensure even cooking.
Storage : Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Serving Suggestions
Romantic Touch : Garnish with microgreens or fresh basil for elegance.
Brunch Staple : Pair with garlic bread, a side salad, or roasted veggies for a complete meal.
Party Platter : Serve alongside other comfort foods like sliders, nachos, or baked potatoes for variety.
Final Thoughts
This Crockpot Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole is a celebration of bold, savory flavors and creamy textures, offering a dish that feels indulgent yet approachable. With its hands-off cooking method, customizable options, and endless charm, it’s a recipe that’s sure to impress whether you’re cooking for a special occasion, a casual snack, or simply craving something satisfying.
Your Turn! Have you ever made slow-cooker casseroles or experimented with Philly cheesesteak-inspired dishes? Share your favorite variations or serving ideas below.