Few dishes can match the heartwarming satisfaction of a Philly cheesesteak — juicy beef, sautéed peppers and onions, gooey cheese — it’s comfort food royalty. Now, imagine all of that flavor turned into a rich, creamy pasta dish, slow-cooked to perfection in your crockpot. That’s exactly what you get with this Crockpot Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole — a bold, beefy, cheesy twist on a beloved classic, perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
This recipe blends two comfort food favorites — Philly cheesesteaks and creamy pasta — into one irresistible, slow-cooked meal. Here’s why it’s a weeknight hero:
- Hands-off Cooking: Let your crockpot do all the work.
- Layered Flavor: Slow cooking deepens the richness of the beef and peppers.
- Ultra Creamy: Cream cheese, mozzarella, and provolone create a dreamy, velvety finish.
- Hearty & Filling: A complete one-pot meal that satisfies every time.
Whether you’re cooking for a family of picky eaters or meal prepping for the week, this dish hits all the marks.
Ingredients (US Measuring Cups)
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef or thinly sliced steak (ribeye or sirloin preferred for authenticity)
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni)
- 8 oz cream cheese, cubed and softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded provolone cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Toppings:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Crushed red pepper flakes
- Extra shredded cheese (mozzarella or provolone)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Beef & Sauté Veggies
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef or steak strips and cook until no longer pink. Drain excess fat.
Add the sliced onion and bell peppers. Cook for 5–7 minutes until they begin to soften. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more, just until fragrant.
Step 2: Layer It in the Crockpot
Transfer the cooked beef and vegetable mixture to the crockpot. Add the marinara sauce, beef broth, uncooked pasta, Italian seasoning, and salt & pepper. Stir everything thoroughly to combine.
Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover and cook on LOW for 3 to 4 hours, or until the pasta is just tender. Be sure to check around the 3-hour mark to avoid overcooking the noodles.
Step 4: Stir in the Cheeses
Once the pasta is cooked, add the cubed cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, and provolone. Stir until fully melted and incorporated, creating a thick, creamy sauce. Let sit for 5–10 minutes with the lid slightly ajar to thicken.
Step 5: Serve & Garnish
Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley, extra shredded cheese, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired. Pair with a crusty baguette or garlic bread for the ultimate comfort meal.
Cooking Tips & Variations
- Steak for Authenticity: Thinly sliced ribeye or sirloin brings a true Philly flavor, though ground beef is quicker and more affordable.
- Cheese Swap: No provolone? Use more mozzarella or add white American cheese for extra melt.
- Boost the Veggies: Add mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for nutrition and texture.
- Make it Spicy: Mix in chopped jalapeños or crushed red pepper during cooking.
- Don’t Overcook Pasta: Every crockpot is different. Pasta cooks faster than you think in a slow cooker, so keep an eye on it.
Nutritional Info (Approximate per Serving)
- Calories: 600–700 kcal
- Protein: ~28g
- Fat: ~35g
- Carbs: ~45g
- Fiber: ~3g
- Sugar: ~5g
- Sodium: Varies based on broth and cheese brands
Why Use the Crockpot?
The slow cooker isn’t just about convenience (though we love the set-it-and-forget-it aspect!). Slow cooking allows flavors to meld beautifully, especially when working with onions, garlic, and bell peppers. It also yields a creamier sauce without constant stirring, making it ideal for a dish like this.
Perfect Pairings
Although this casserole is a one-dish wonder, a few sides can elevate it further:
- Garlic Bread: For scooping up the creamy sauce.
- Green Salad: A light contrast to the rich pasta.
- Roasted Broccoli: Adds fiber and a touch of crunch.
- Pickles or Giardiniera: For a tangy contrast!
When to Make Crockpot Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
- Busy Weeknights: Prep in the morning and come home to a hot meal.
- Family Gatherings: Doubles easily and satisfies even picky eaters.
- Meal Prep: Stores well in fridge for 4–5 days and reheats beautifully.
- Game Day Food: Hearty enough to fuel your crew through the fourth quarter.
Make-Ahead & Storage
- Make-Ahead: Prep beef and veggies the night before. Combine in the crockpot in the morning.
- To Store: Cool and refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- To Freeze: Portion and freeze in airtight containers. Thaw in fridge and reheat slowly.
- To Reheat: Microwave with a splash of broth or water, or warm in a skillet over low heat.
Final Thoughts
Crockpot Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole combines the rich, savory elements of your favorite sandwich with the comfort of creamy pasta. It’s easy, hearty, and hits all the right notes for a satisfying meal. With a perfect balance of creamy cheese, beefy richness, and the sweet bite of bell peppers, this is a dish the whole family will crave again and again.
So dust off your slow cooker and let it work its magic. The result? A no-fuss, deeply flavorful, ultra-comforting meal that delivers big on taste with minimal effort.