Looking for an easy weeknight meal? This Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole brings all your favorite flavors into one comforting dish, perfect for any casserole dinner recipes rotation. You’ll love how simple it is to prepare, making it a delicious solution for busy evenings.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Steak: Thinly sliced sirloin or flank steak works best. Ground beef is a good substitute for a different texture.
- Pasta: Any short pasta like penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni will do.
- Cheese: Provolone is classic; mozzarella or a Monterey Jack blend can also be used.
- Bell Peppers & Onion: Use any color bell pepper you prefer.
- Cream Cheese: Essential for creaminess; plain Greek yogurt can be used for a tangier, lighter option.
- Beef Broth: Chicken or vegetable broth can be used in a pinch.
Ingredients:
Main:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound thinly sliced beef (sirloin or flank steak), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 bell peppers (any color), thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup milk (any kind)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 12 ounces short pasta, cooked al dente
- 1 1/2 cups shredded provolone cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional, for extra cheesiness)
Spices:
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Tools Needed: Large skillet, 9×13 inch baking dish, large pot
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta
Begin by cooking your favorite short pasta according to package directions until it’s al dente. Drain it well and set it aside while you prepare the other components of your casserole dinner recipes. This ensures your pasta won’t be mushy.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onion and bell peppers and cook until they soften, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic for the last minute until fragrant.
3. Brown the Beef
Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet. Add the thinly sliced beef to the other side and cook until it’s browned, breaking it up as you go. Once browned, mix the beef with the vegetables.
4. Create the Creamy Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium. Add the softened cream cheese, beef broth, milk, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir until the cream cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
5. Combine and Assemble
Add the cooked pasta and 1 cup of the shredded provolone cheese to the skillet. Stir everything together until the pasta is evenly coated in the rich, creamy sauce. Transfer this mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Bake the Casserole
Top the casserole with the remaining 1/2 cup provolone cheese and the optional mozzarella cheese. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This step truly completes your delicious casserole dinner recipes.
Variation Ideas:
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for some heat.
- Mushroom Lovers: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the bell peppers and onions.
- Extra Veggies: Incorporate spinach or corn for added nutrients.
- Different Cheese: Experiment with white cheddar or gruyere for a unique flavor.
Storage Instructions:
Store any leftover Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, microwave individual portions until warmed through, or cover and bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
- Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole without baking, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
- What kind of beef is best for Philly cheesesteak?
Thinly sliced sirloin, flank steak, or even deli-style roast beef works well for this casserole dinner recipes.
- Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, you can use frozen sliced bell peppers and onions, but you might need to cook them a bit longer to remove excess moisture.
- How do I prevent the pasta from getting mushy?
Cook the pasta only until al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Is this dish freezer-friendly?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked or baked casserole for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking or reheating.
- What can I serve with this casserole?
A simple side salad or some crusty bread makes a great accompaniment to this hearty casserole dinner recipes.