Philly Cheesesteak Casserole with Pasta
This Philly Cheesesteak Casserole combines the savory flavors of the classic sandwich with the rich creaminess of a pasta bake. With tender beef, sautéed peppers and onions, a velvety cream sauce, and layers of melty cheese, this dish is pure comfort food magic. It’s quick enough for a weeknight and satisfying enough for a Sunday dinner. Add a Southern twist and you’ve got a family favorite that’s impossible to resist.
Ingredients & Their Purpose
- 1 pound Thinly Sliced Beef (ribeye or sirloin) – The star of the dish, delivering that signature cheesesteak flavor with juicy tenderness.
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil – Helps brown the meat and soften the vegetables.
- 1 Large Onion (thinly sliced) – Adds subtle sweetness and depth, mimicking the Philly cheesesteak’s classic base.
- 1 Green Bell Pepper (thinly sliced) – Offers a fresh, slightly bitter crunch.
- 1 Red Bell Pepper (thinly sliced) – Brings vibrant color and a mild sweetness.
- 2 cloves Garlic (minced) – Boosts the overall aroma and flavor complexity.
- 1 teaspoon Salt – Enhances all the natural flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper – Adds just the right kick without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire Sauce – Deepens the umami and gives the beef a rich, savory edge.
- 1 cup Heavy Cream – Creates a luxurious sauce that binds everything together.
- 8 ounces Provolone Cheese (sliced) – A key Philly cheesesteak component, it melts beautifully into the dish.
- 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese (shredded) – Offers gooey, stretchy goodness on top.
- 4 cups Cooked Pasta (penne or rotini) – A sturdy base that soaks up all the flavor. Choose shapes that hold sauce well.
- 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese (grated) – Adds a salty, nutty finish to the topping.
- 1 tablespoon Fresh Parsley (chopped) – Optional, but great for a pop of color and fresh finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced beef and cook until browned, about 4-5 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the vegetables: In the same skillet, add onions and bell peppers. Sauté until soft, 5-7 minutes. Add garlic and cook 1 more minute until fragrant.
- Combine beef and vegetables: Return beef to the skillet. Stir in salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix well to combine.
- Make the sauce: Reduce heat to low. Pour in heavy cream and stir until fully combined and heated through. Let simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Mix with pasta and cheese: In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, beef-veggie mixture, and sliced provolone cheese. Toss gently until evenly coated.
- Assemble the casserole: Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread evenly.
- Top with cheese: Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake: Bake for 20–25 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden on top.
- Cool and garnish: Let sit for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving, if desired.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, meaty dream that’s packed with bold flavor and built for comfort. It’s incredibly easy to prep, family-friendly, and makes fantastic leftovers. Plus, it’s a clever twist on two beloved meals: pasta casserole and cheesesteak sandwich.
Pro Tips for Success
- Use ribeye for ultimate flavor, but sirloin works well as a leaner option.
- Let the beef rest after cooking to keep it juicy.
- Don’t overcook the veggies— they should still have a little bite for texture.
- Use freshly grated cheese for better melt and flavor.
- Add mushrooms or hot banana peppers for a spicier variation.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Philly Cheesesteak Casserole with:
- A simple green salad with vinaigrette
- Garlic bread or toasted hoagie rolls
- Southern-style sweet tea or a crisp white wine
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a hearty, crowd-pleasing dinner that’s both easy to make and bursting with flavor, this Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is your answer. It takes a familiar classic, gives it a creamy Southern upgrade, and turns it into a one-dish wonder. Simple ingredients, bold flavors, and gooey cheese—what more could you want in a comfort meal? Try it tonight and discover why this dish is quickly becoming a favorite across dinner tables everywhere.