Imagine a creamy, cheesy pasta casserole with the bold flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak. Each bite bursts with tender steak, vibrant peppers, and melty cheese that pulls just right, making your mouth water before you even take a bite. This Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole is not just comfort food; it’s an experience that brings the joy of a bustling Philadelphia street right into your kitchen.
Growing up, my family had this tradition of gathering around the dinner table to share stories over hearty meals. One of my fondest memories was when we tried to recreate our favorite cheesesteak sandwiches but ended up with a glorious pasta disaster instead. That delightful mess turned into this recipe! Perfect for cozy nights or casual get-togethers, every forkful promises laughter and satisfaction.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole offers incredible flavor packed in every layer
- It’s straightforward to prepare and makes weeknight dinners a breeze
- The colorful layers create a visually appealing dish that’s perfect for impressing guests
- Plus, it’s versatile enough for leftovers or meal prep throughout the week
Ingredients for Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Fusilli Pasta: This spiral-shaped pasta holds onto the cheese sauce beautifully; feel free to use any kind of pasta you love!
Steak: Thinly sliced ribeye is ideal for that authentic cheesesteak flavor; you can also use flank steak or sirloin.
Bell Peppers: A mix of red and green bell peppers adds color and crunch; choose fresh ones for the best taste.
Onion: Sweet onions caramelize wonderfully and complement the savory steak flavors perfectly.
Cream Cheese: This is key to achieving that creamy texture in your casserole; let it soften before mixing.
Shredded Cheese: Use provolone or mozzarella for that melty goodness – you can never have too much cheese!
Beef Broth: A splash of beef broth helps enhance the richness, making every bite decadent.
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 the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab a large baking dish and give it a good spray with nonstick cooking spray.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook your fusilli pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside while you work on the filling.
Step 3: Sauté the Steak and Veggies
In a large skillet over medium heat, add some oil and sauté sliced onion until translucent. Toss in your bell peppers and cook until they’re slightly softened. Now add your thinly sliced steak; season with salt and pepper, cooking until browned.
Step 4: Mix It All Together
In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, sautéed steak mixture, cream cheese, beef broth, half of your shredded cheese, and stir it all together until well combined.
Step 5: Layer in Baking Dish
Transfer your creamy mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top it with the remaining shredded cheese evenly across the surface; because who doesn’t love extra cheese?
Step 6: Bake Until Golden
Pop it into your preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with more cheese sauce if you’re feeling extra indulgent! Enjoy each cheesy bite while reminiscing about your own kitchen adventures!
You Must Know
- This delightful Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole combines the comforting flavors of classic cheesesteaks with the ease of a pasta bake
- It’s a fulfilling dish that is perfect for weeknight dinners and will have everyone asking for seconds
- Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder that simplifies cleanup!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To create your Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole perfectly, start by sautéing your onions and peppers until they are tender. Then, sear the steak pieces to lock in flavor. While this happens, cook the pasta until al dente, and prepare your cheese sauce.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize this dish by swapping out the beef for chicken or mushrooms for a vegetarian twist. You can also experiment with different cheeses like provolone or mozzarella. Adding some spicy jalapeños can bring an extra kick to your casserole!
Storing & Reheating
To store your leftover Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, use the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 20 minutes or microwave individual portions until heated through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always cook your pasta slightly underdone; it will continue to cook while baking in the casserole
- Use high-quality cheese for a richer flavor and creamier texture
- Don’t skip seasoning; it elevates every layer of this delicious dish!
I remember the first time I made this casserole; my friends devoured it within minutes and insisted it was better than takeout! The laughter and compliments made it a memorable night filled with good food and great company.
FAQs:
What is Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole?
Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole combines the classic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak with pasta. This dish features tender pasta mixed with sautéed steak, bell peppers, and onions, all baked together in a creamy cheese sauce. It offers a comforting meal that captures the essence of the beloved sandwich while being easy to prepare and serve.
How long does it take to prepare Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole?
Preparing Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole typically takes about 30 minutes. Cooking the pasta and sautéing the steak and vegetables can be done in parallel, making the overall process efficient. After mixing all ingredients and transferring them to a baking dish, you will need an additional 20-25 minutes in the oven for everything to meld together perfectly.
Can I customize my Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole?
Absolutely! You can customize your Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole by using different types of cheese or vegetables based on your preference. Swap out ribeye for chicken or turkey for a lighter option. You can also add mushrooms or spinach for an extra layer of flavor and nutrition, ensuring everyone enjoys their own version.
Is Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole freezer-friendly?
Yes, Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole is freezer-friendly. You can prepare it ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw overnight in the fridge before baking. This makes it a great meal prep option that saves time on busy nights while still delivering delicious flavors.
Conclusion for Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole:
In summary, Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole is a delightful fusion that brings together the rich flavors of a classic sandwich with hearty pasta. With easy preparation and customizable options, this dish suits various tastes and preferences. Whether you are cooking for family or hosting friends, this casserole is sure to impress everyone at the table! Enjoy your culinary adventure with this satisfying recipe!
Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole is a comforting and delicious twist on the classic Philly cheesesteak, combining tender steak, vibrant peppers, and gooey cheese all enveloped in pasta. This dish is perfect for cozy family dinners or casual gatherings, promising hearty flavors and satisfying bites that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- 12 oz fusilli pasta
- 1 lb thinly sliced ribeye steak
- 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
- 1 medium green bell pepper, diced
- 1 medium sweet onion, diced
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup beef broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and spray a large baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Cook the fusilli pasta in salted boiling water until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the diced onion until translucent. Add bell peppers and cook until slightly softened. Incorporate the steak slices; season with salt and pepper, cooking until browned.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, sautéed steak mixture, cream cheese, beef broth, and half of the shredded cheese; mix well.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and top with remaining shredded cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
