Crockpot Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole
If you’re a fan of the iconic Philly cheesesteak sandwich, prepare to fall head over heels for this Crockpot Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole. Imagine tender beef, melty cheese, and the perfect crunch of peppers and onions, all combined with hearty pasta in a creamy, cheesy sauce. The best part? It’s a set-it-and-forget-it meal that practically cooks itself while you go about your day. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or hosting a casual get-together, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Slow Cooker Magic: The Crockpot does all the heavy lifting. Just toss in your ingredients, and a few hours later, you’ll have a warm, cheesy, beefy casserole that tastes like it’s been simmering all day.
- Comfort Food Perfection: This casserole is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and filling without being overly heavy. It’s the kind of meal that makes everyone ask for seconds.
- Customizable: Not a fan of bell peppers? Swap them for mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini. Prefer ground beef over steak? No problem! This recipe is flexible and forgiving.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to bring this dish to life:
- 1 pound ground beef (or thinly sliced steak for a more authentic touch).
- 1 onion, diced (for that sweet, caramelized flavor).
- 1 green bell pepper and 1 red bell pepper, diced (for color and crunch).
- 2 cups pasta (penne or rotini work best).
- 2 cups shredded provolone cheese (or a mix of mozzarella and cheddar for variety).
- 1 cup beef broth (to create a rich, savory sauce).
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (for a tangy umami kick).
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder and 1 teaspoon onion powder (for depth of flavor).
- Salt and pepper, to taste (because seasoning is everything).
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil your pasta until it’s just shy of al dente. It’ll finish cooking in the Crockpot, so don’t overdo it.
- Brown the Beef: In a skillet, cook the ground beef until browned. Add the diced onions and bell peppers, sautéing until softened. This step builds flavor, so don’t skip it.
- Layer the Crockpot: Spray your Crockpot with nonstick spray. Layer half the pasta, followed by half the beef and veggie mixture, and half the cheese. Repeat the layers.
- Add the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Pour this evenly over the layers.
- Cook Low and Slow: Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours. The longer it cooks, the more the flavors meld together.
- Cheese It Up: In the last 15 minutes, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top and let it melt into gooey perfection.
Pro Tips for Success
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Since it’ll continue cooking in the Crockpot, aim for al dente to avoid mushiness.
- Sauté the Veggies: Taking the time to sauté the onions and peppers enhances their sweetness and adds depth to the dish.
- Add a Creamy Twist: For an extra-rich sauce, stir in a few cubes of cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream.
- Spice It Up: Love heat? Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is rich and hearty, so pair it with something light and fresh:
- A Simple Side Salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness.
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up every last bit of cheesy sauce.
- Roasted Veggies: Add a pop of color and nutrition with roasted zucchini, carrots, or asparagus.
Storing and Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warm and bubbly.
- Freeze: This casserole freezes well! Portion it into freezer-safe containers and thaw overnight before reheating.
Final Thoughts
This Crockpot Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole is the ultimate marriage of convenience and comfort. It’s a dish that feels indulgent yet is incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re a busy parent, a meal-prep enthusiast, or just someone who loves a good cheesesteak, this recipe is a winner. So grab your Crockpot, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a meal that’s as satisfying as it is simple.
Bon appétit!
