Crockpot Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole

Crockpot Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole is a delicious and hearty dish perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. This creamy casserole combines the classic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak with pasta, ensuring everyone will enjoy every bite. It’s simple to prepare in your crockpot, making it a fantastic option for busy days when you want a comforting meal without the fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: Just throw everything in the crockpot and let it do the work while you relax.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of cream cheese, cheddar, and bell peppers creates a mouthwatering flavor profile.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a potluck with friends.
• Kid-Friendly: Kids love cheesy pasta dishes, making this a great way to please picky eaters.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup required since everything cooks in one pot, keeping your kitchen neat.

Tools and Preparation

Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s go over the essential tools you’ll need to make this Crockpot Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker (crockpot)
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This is the heart of the recipe, allowing for tender cooking that melds flavors beautifully.
• Sharp knife: Essential for chopping ingredients quickly and safely, ensuring uniform pieces for even cooking.

Ingredients

For the Casserole

• 2 cups uncooked pasta (penne or rigatoni)
• 500g beef strips
• 1 cup cream cheese
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 1 bell pepper, sliced (red or green)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For Cooking

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

How to Make Crockpot Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Begin by slicing the onion, bell pepper, and mincing the garlic. Set these aside.

Step 2: Brown the Beef Strips

In a skillet over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once hot, add 500g of beef strips. Cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot

In your slow cooker, add:
1. The browned beef strips
2. Sliced onions
3. Sliced bell peppers
4. Minced garlic
5. Uncooked pasta
6. Cream cheese
7. Shredded cheddar cheese
8. Italian seasoning
9. Salt and black pepper

Mix everything gently until well combined.

Step 4: Cook on Low

Cover your crockpot and set it to cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours. Stir halfway through if possible to ensure even cooking.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Once cooked, stir again before serving to combine all ingredients thoroughly. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Crockpot Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole!

How to Serve Crockpot Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole

Crockpot Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole is a hearty dish that pairs well with various sides. Serving it the right way can enhance the meal experience and bring out its flavors.

Pair with Garlic Bread

• Garlic Bread: Toast slices of baguette or Italian bread with butter and minced garlic for a crispy side that complements the casserole beautifully.

Add a Fresh Salad

• Caesar Salad: Toss romaine lettuce with Caesar dressing, croutons, and grated Parmesan cheese to add a refreshing crunch.
• Greek Salad: Combine diced cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese for a tangy contrast.

Serve with Pickles

• Dill Pickles: Offer crispy dill pickles on the side for a zesty bite that balances the richness of the casserole.

Include Coleslaw

• Creamy Coleslaw: A bowl of creamy coleslaw adds texture and freshness, making it an excellent pairing.

How to Perfect Crockpot Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your Crockpot Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole, follow these useful tips.

• Use Quality Meat: Opt for 1 pound of thinly sliced sirloin or ribeye steak for tender bites in your casserole.
• Add Extra Veggies: Include 1 cup of sliced bell peppers or mushrooms to enhance flavor and nutrition.
• Select the Right Pasta: Choose 8 ounces of penne or rigatoni pasta as they hold sauce well and provide a satisfying bite.
• Incorporate Cheese Wisely: Use 2 cups of shredded provolone cheese mixed throughout and on top for a gooey finish.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste before serving; add salt and pepper as needed, but start with 1 teaspoon each to avoid over-seasoning.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole

Choosing the right side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some great options that complement your Crockpot Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole perfectly.

1. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients to your plate. Drizzle with olive oil for extra flavor.
2. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with rosemary make for a comforting side. Coat 1 pound of potatoes in olive oil and herbs before roasting.
3. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob offers sweetness that contrasts nicely with savory casserole flavors.
4. Baked Beans: Sweet baked beans can provide a hearty balance; consider serving them in small bowls alongside the casserole.
5. Sweet Potato Fries: Homemade sweet potato fries seasoned with salt and paprika add crunch and sweetness to your meal.
6. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad featuring strawberries, blueberries, and melon can refresh your palate after rich bites of casserole.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Crockpot Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole, there are a few common mistakes you should steer clear of to ensure a delicious dish.

• Overcooking the pasta – If you let the pasta cook for too long in the crockpot, it can become mushy. Aim to add it during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
• Too much salt – Adding too much salt can overpower the flavors. Limit your salt to 1/2 teaspoon when seasoning.
• Ignoring ingredient sizes – Using different quantities than specified can affect the texture and taste. Stick to 1 pound of beef and 8 ounces of pasta for best results.
• Not browning the meat – Skipping this step may lead to a less flavorful casserole. Always brown your 1 pound of beef before adding it to the crockpot.
• Skipping cheese – Cheese adds creaminess and flavor. Don’t omit it; use at least 2 cups of shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration – Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Temperature – Ensure your refrigerator is set below 40°F (4°C).
• Cooling – Allow the casserole to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Crockpot Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole

• Containers – Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Duration – Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
• Thawing – Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Crockpot Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and bake for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave – Heat in microwave-safe containers in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each interval until warm.
• Stovetop – Place in a pot over medium heat, adding a splash of water if necessary, and stir occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

This section addresses common queries regarding the Crockpot Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole.

Can I use other meats instead of beef?

Yes! You can substitute with chicken or turkey. Use about 1 pound and adjust cooking time as needed.

How do I make this recipe vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, replace beef with sautéed mushrooms and add bell peppers. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

What type of cheese works best?

Provolone and mozzarella are excellent choices. Aim for at least 2 cups total for optimal creaminess.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely! Consider adding diced bell peppers or onions. About 1 cup each will add flavor and texture.

How long does it take to cook in the crockpot?

Cooking time is typically around 6 hours on low or 4 hours on high, depending on your crockpot model.

Final Thoughts

Crockpot Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the seasonings. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings—give it a try!