Introduction
Looking for the ultimate one-pot meal that’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights? This Crockpot Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole is a delicious twist on the classic Philly cheesesteak sandwich. Packed with tender beef, sautéed peppers and onions, creamy cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta, this dish delivers all the iconic flavors in a warm, comforting casserole.
Made in your slow cooker, this recipe is a set-it-and-forget-it meal that’s sure to please the whole family. Whether it’s a potluck, a game day gathering, or a simple dinner at home, this casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Why Crockpot Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole is a Must-Try
- Convenient and Easy: The slow cooker does all the work for you.
- All-In-One Meal: Includes protein, veggies, and pasta for a complete dish.
- Rich and Cheesy: A creamy cheese sauce ties everything together.
- Customizable: Adjust the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs.
Ingredients
For the Beef Mixture:
- 1 lb ground beef (or thinly sliced steak like ribeye or flank steak)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for added flavor)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Sauce:
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (mixed with 2 tbsp water for thickening)
- 2 cups shredded provolone cheese (or mozzarella as a substitute)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for added richness)
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz (about 3 cups) uncooked penne or rigatoni pasta
For Topping (Optional):
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Beef Mixture
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add the diced onion, green bell pepper, red bell pepper, and garlic. Cook until the vegetables are softened (about 5 minutes).
- Stir in Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Transfer the mixture to your slow cooker.
2. Add the Sauce Ingredients
- Pour the beef broth and heavy cream into the slow cooker.
- Stir in the cornstarch slurry to help thicken the sauce during cooking.
3. Cook in the Crockpot
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours.
4. Add the Pasta
- After the cooking time, add the uncooked pasta directly to the slow cooker. Stir well to combine.
- Cook on high for an additional 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.
5. Add the Cheese
- Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the shredded provolone and cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and creamy.
6. Serve
- Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!
Tips for the Best Crockpot Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole
- Choose the Right Pasta: Use sturdy pasta shapes like penne or rigatoni that hold up well in the slow cooker.
- Pre-Cook the Beef: Browning the beef and vegetables before adding them to the crockpot enhances the flavor.
- Monitor the Pasta: Stir occasionally when adding the pasta to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Customizable Cheeses: Use a blend of cheeses like provolone, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick.
- Make It Spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for extra heat.
Variations
- Low-Carb Version:
- Skip the pasta and use zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice as a substitute.
- Vegetarian Option:
- Replace the beef with plant-based ground meat or sautéed mushrooms.
- Gluten-Free:
- Use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary restrictions.
- Classic Cheesesteak Feel:
- Add sautéed mushrooms and serve the casserole over toasted hoagie rolls for an authentic Philly vibe.
- Make-Ahead Tip:
- Prepare the beef and vegetable mixture in advance. Refrigerate and add it to the crockpot when ready to cook.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving, Approximate)
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
Conclusion
This Crockpot Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that combines the creamy richness of pasta with the savory flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak. Simple to make and loaded with cheese, beef, and veggies, it’s a dish that will quickly become a family favorite.
Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, this recipe is versatile, hearty, and absolutely delicious. Save it for your next meal plan, and don’t forget to share it with friends and family who love easy, comforting dinners. Happy cooking!