Imagine biting into a creamy, cheesy casserole that bursts with the savory flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak. The tender pasta mingles with juicy beef, gooey cheese, and a medley of colorful peppers and onions. This Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole is an explosion of flavor that will transport you straight to the streets of Philadelphia, minus the need for a plane ticket.
Growing up, my family had a knack for turning simple dinners into epic feasts. I’ll never forget the time my dad attempted to recreate his favorite cheesesteak sandwich but ended up spilling half the ingredients on the floor. That disaster turned into laughter and a new family tradition: cheesesteak-inspired meals. Now, whenever I whip up this casserole, it feels like I’m inviting everyone back to our kitchen for another round of delicious memories.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole combines ease with mouthwatering flavors that delight every palate
- The one-dish wonder simplifies your dinner prep without sacrificing taste or presentation
- Its vibrant colors and cheesy goodness make it visually appealing on your table
- Perfect for cozy family nights or as a crowd-pleaser at gatherings
Ingredients for Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Pasta: Use penne or rotini for their ability to hold sauce well; they provide the perfect base for this hearty casserole.
- Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef to avoid excess grease while still delivering that rich, savory flavor.
- Onion: A sweet yellow onion adds sweetness when sautéed and balances the dish’s savory elements beautifully.
- Bell Peppers: Choose a mix of red and green bell peppers for color and crunch; they add freshness to each bite.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic infuses the dish with an aromatic kick that enhances all the other flavors in this casserole.
For the Sauce:
- Cream Cheese: This creamy ingredient creates a luscious texture that binds everything together beautifully.
- Beef Broth: Adds moisture and depth; use low-sodium broth to control salt levels without sacrificing flavor.
- Shredded Cheese: A mix of provolone and mozzarella gives that melty cheesiness we all crave in a great Philly cheesesteak.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s warming up, grab your favorite baking dish—this is where all the magic happens!
Step 2: Cook Your Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add your pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside while you work on the filling.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of oil. Throw in diced onions and bell peppers; sauté until they’re soft and slightly caramelized, about 5 minutes.
Step 4: Brown the Beef
Add your ground beef to the skillet with those beautiful veggies. Season with salt, pepper, and minced garlic. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, breaking it apart as you go.
Step 5: Mix It All Together
Stir cream cheese into your beef mixture until melted and combined. Pour in beef broth gradually while mixing; then fold in cooked pasta until everything is coated in cheesy goodness.
Step 6: Bake Your Casserole
Transfer everything into your prepared baking dish. Top with shredded cheese—a glorious layer that will brown beautifully in the oven! Bake uncovered for about 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Serve hot from the oven, perhaps with a side salad or some crusty bread for dipping into all that cheesy goodness! Enjoy every cheesy bite of nostalgia wrapped up in one delightful casserole dish!
You Must Know
- This delightful Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole combines the classic flavors of a cheesesteak with the comforting texture of pasta
- It’s a one-dish wonder that makes weeknight dinners easy and enjoyable, ensuring every bite is filled with cheesy goodness and savory satisfaction
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the beef in a skillet, then set it aside. Cook the pasta while you sauté onions and bell peppers. Combine everything with cheese and bake for that perfect melt-in-your-mouth finish.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or chicken. Add mushrooms for an earthy flavor, or toss in some hot sauce if you like it spicy. The options are endless!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for quick meals.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use high-quality cheese for better melting and flavor
- Avoid overcooking the pasta; it should be al dente since it will continue cooking in the oven
- Let it rest for a few minutes before serving to enhance the flavors
I remember the first time I made this Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole for my friends; their reactions were priceless! They devoured it and begged for seconds, claiming I was their new favorite chef!
FAQs :
What is Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole?
Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole is a delicious fusion dish that combines the classic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak with pasta. This comforting casserole features tender pasta, sautéed beef, bell peppers, onions, and creamy cheese sauce. It is baked to perfection, creating a hearty meal that’s perfect for families and gatherings.
How do I store leftovers of Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole?
To store leftovers of your Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole, let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing it in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Can I customize the ingredients in this casserole?
Absolutely! One of the great things about Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole is its versatility. You can substitute the beef with chicken or turkey if preferred. Additionally, feel free to add more vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini and experiment with different cheeses for a unique twist on this classic dish.
How long does it take to prepare Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole?
Preparing Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole typically takes around 20 minutes for prep work and 30-35 minutes for baking. Overall, you can have this delightful dish ready in less than an hour. It’s a quick and easy option for busy weeknights or when hosting friends and family.
Conclusion for Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole :
In summary, Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole merges the best aspects of two beloved dishes into one mouthwatering meal. With its simple preparation and ability to satisfy even the hungriest appetites, it’s an ideal option for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to customize it according to your taste preferences! Whether you’re serving it on a weeknight or at a gathering, this casserole is sure to impress all who try it. Enjoy every cheesy bite!
Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole is a delectable fusion that brings together the iconic flavors of a classic cheesesteak in a creamy pasta dish. This comforting one-dish meal features tender penne pasta, savory ground beef, colorful bell peppers, and a rich cheese sauce, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, this casserole is sure to become a beloved favorite at your table.
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 1 cup mixed bell peppers (diced red and green)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
- 1 cup shredded provolone cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook penne pasta in salted boiling water until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, sauté onion and bell peppers in oil until soft (about 5 minutes).
- Add ground beef, salt, pepper, and garlic; cook until browned.
- Stir in cream cheese until melted, then mix in beef broth.
- Fold in cooked pasta until well combined.
- Transfer to a baking dish and top with provolone and mozzarella cheese.
- Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of casserole (approx. 250g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
