Prep Your Ingredients: Start by dicing the onion and bell peppers. Ground beef should be ready to go as well.
Brown the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat.
Combine in the Crockpot: In your crockpot, combine the browned beef, diced onion, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper. Stir to mix well.
Cook the Pasta: Prepare the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain it and set aside.
Mix It Together: Once the beef and veggies are cooked, add the cooked pasta to the crockpot and mix thoroughly.
Add the Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded provolone cheese over the top of your mixture. Stir lightly to distribute the cheese throughout.
Slow Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded. For the last 30 minutes, leave the lid on for the cheese to melt completely.
Serve and Enjoy: Scoop out portions and serve hot. Enjoy your savory creation with a side salad or your favorite bread!
What to Serve Crockpot Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole With
Looking for sides to elevate your meal? Here are some delightful suggestions to complement your Crockpot Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole:
Garlic Bread: A side of warm, buttery garlic bread will enhance the cheesy goodness of the casserole and make it even more satisfying!
Green Salad: A fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette adds a crisp balance to the richness of the dish.
Roasted Vegetables: Sautéed or roasted veggies add a burst of color and nutrition while contrasting the creamy casserole nicely.
Top Tips for Perfecting Crockpot Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole
Ingredient Swaps: Feel free to mix up the peppers or even add mushrooms for an extra flavor boost. Cheese can also be customized; a mixture of cheeses works wonders, too!
Don’t Overcook: Ensure you don’t overcook the pasta before adding it to the crockpot; al dente pasta holds up better when combined with other ingredients.
Adjustment for Timing: If you need to cook it for a shorter time, cooking on high for about 3 hours can achieve similar results in less time.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Planning to save some for later? No worries! This casserole stores well.
Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: If you want to freeze it, let it cool completely and then place it in a freezer-safe container. It can last for up to 2 months in the freezer.
Reheating: When ready to eat, thaw if frozen, and then heat in the microwave or in the oven until warmed through. Add a splash of milk if the casserole needs a little moisture!
With these tips and the hearty recipe in hand, you're all set to create a comforting Crockpot Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole that will delight your family and friends. Enjoy the flavors, share the love, and happy cooking!