Introduction
Craving a creamy, cheesy, comfort-food dish that brings the iconic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak to your table for a family dinner or a cozy Valentine’s Day meal? Slow Cooker Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is your answer! Adapted from the original stovetop recipe, this slow cooker version combines ground beef or steak strips with green bell peppers, onions, garlic, cream cheese, and provolone in a rich, savory beef broth sauce, tossed with pasta for a hearty, satisfying meal. The slow cooker ensures tender meat and melded flavors with minimal effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Ready to create this indulgent masterpiece? Let’s get cooking!
Overview
Slow Cooker Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is a rich, American-inspired main dish featuring ground beef or steak strips cooked with green bell peppers, onions, and garlic, blended with a creamy cream cheese and beef broth sauce, and finished with melted provolone cheese over al dente pasta. The slow cooker simplifies the cooking process, delivering a comforting, cheesy dish perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep with a Philly-inspired twist.
- Time Requirement: 20 minutes prep, 4–5 hours on low or 2–3 hours on high, plus 15 minutes for pasta and finishing.
- Difficulty Level: Easy! Requires minimal prep, with the slow cooker handling most of the cooking.
- Why It’s Special: This recipe is budget-friendly, kid-friendly, and captures the essence of a Philly cheesesteak in a creamy pasta form. The slow cooker ensures a tender, flavorful base, while the provolone adds an authentic, melty finish. It’s perfect for cozy dinners, gatherings, or a romantic Valentine’s Day meal with a comforting twist.
Whether you’re feeding a crowd or craving a hearty meal, this Slow Cooker Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is sure to satisfy. Let’s dive in!
Essential Ingredients
The magic of Slow Cooker Philly Cheesesteak Pasta lies in its simple, high-quality ingredients. Each one adds savoriness, creaminess, or texture to create a harmonious dish. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Ground Beef or Steak Strips (1 lb, 80/20 ground beef preferred):
- Why it’s important: Provides the hearty, savory base inspired by Philly cheesesteaks.
- Substitutions: Ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat for vegetarian (adjust cooking time slightly for leaner meats).
- Green Bell Pepper (1, diced, ~1 cup):
- Why it’s important: Adds sweet, crunchy flavor typical of cheesesteaks.
- Substitutions: Red bell pepper, poblano pepper, or omit for a milder flavor.
- Onion (1, diced, ~1 cup):
- Why it’s important: Brings sweet, savory depth to the dish.
- Substitutions: Yellow or white onion, shallots, or 1 tsp onion powder.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced, ~2 tsp):
- Why it’s important: Infuses the dish with aromatic, savory flavor.
- Substitutions: ½ tsp garlic powder or 1 tsp garlic paste.
- Cream Cheese (8 oz, softened):
- Why it’s important: Creates a creamy, rich sauce base.
- Substitutions: Neufchâtel cheese for lower fat, vegan cream cheese, or Greek yogurt (thinner sauce).
- Shredded Provolone Cheese (1 cup):
- Why it’s important: Adds authentic, melty cheesesteak flavor.
- Substitutions: Mozzarella, cheddar, or vegan cheese.
- Pasta (12 oz, penne or rigatoni recommended):
- Why it’s important: Provides a hearty, sauce-catching base.
- Substitutions: Gluten-free pasta, fusilli, or ziti.
- Beef Broth (1 cup):
- Why it’s important: Forms the savory, saucy base of the dish.
- Substitutions: Vegetable broth, chicken broth, or water with a bouillon cube.
- Salt (to taste, about ½ tsp):
- Why it’s important: Enhances the flavors of the meat and sauce.
- Substitutions: Sea salt or kosher salt.
- Black Pepper (to taste, about ¼ tsp):
- Why it’s important: Adds mild heat and depth.
- Substitutions: White pepper or a pinch of cayenne.
- Olive Oil (1 tbsp):
- Why it’s important: Used for sautéing vegetables and meat.
- Substitutions: Vegetable oil, avocado oil, or butter.
Additional for Slow Cooker:
- Olive Oil or Cooking Spray (1 tbsp):
- Why it’s important: Prevents sticking in the slow cooker.
- Substitutions: Vegetable oil or avocado oil.
Tip: Use freshly shredded provolone for the best melt, and soften cream cheese at room temperature for easy blending. Choose a high-quality beef broth for a richer sauce.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making Slow Cooker Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is straightforward, with the slow cooker ensuring a tender, flavorful base. Follow these steps for a delicious result.
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables and Meat
- In a large skillet over medium heat, heat 1 tbsp olive oil. Add 1 diced green bell pepper, 1 diced onion, and 2 minced garlic cloves. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add 1 lb ground beef or steak strips to the skillet. Cook, breaking up ground beef as needed, for 5–7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Season with ½ tsp salt and ¼ tsp black pepper.
- Drain excess fat if using ground beef, and set the mixture aside.
- Tip: Dice vegetables uniformly for even cooking, and avoid overcrowding the skillet to ensure proper browning.
Step 2: Assemble in the Slow Cooker
- Lightly grease the slow cooker insert with 1 tbsp olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Transfer the cooked beef and vegetable mixture to the slow cooker.
- Add 8 oz softened cream cheese (cut into chunks for easier melting) and 1 cup beef broth. Stir gently to combine.
- Tip: Scrape any browned bits from the skillet into the slow cooker for extra flavor, and ensure cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps.
Step 3: Slow Cook
- Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours, until the mixture is hot, the cream cheese is fully melted, and the flavors are melded.
- Stir halfway through cooking to ensure the cream cheese blends smoothly into the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add an extra ¼ cup broth.
- Tip: Check the sauce consistency near the end, and adjust with broth or water for a pourable texture.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
- About 15 minutes before the slow cooker is done, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 oz pasta (penne or rigatoni) and cook until al dente according to package instructions (typically 8–10 minutes).
- Drain the pasta and set aside, reserving ½ cup pasta water in case the sauce needs thinning.
- Tip: Rinse pasta briefly with cold water to stop cooking, but don’t over-rinse to retain some starch for sauce adhesion.
Step 5: Combine and Finish
- Add the cooked pasta to the slow cooker, tossing gently to coat in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water 1 tbsp at a time.
- Sprinkle 1 cup shredded provolone cheese over the pasta. Cover and cook on low for an additional 5–10 minutes until the cheese melts.
- For a bubbly, golden top (optional), transfer the mixture to a broiler-safe dish, sprinkle with extra provolone, and broil at 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden.
- Tip: Stir gently to avoid breaking the pasta, and watch closely during broiling to prevent burning.
Step 6: Serve
- Serve the pasta hot, spooned into bowls or plates, ensuring each portion has plenty of sauce and melted cheese.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or extra provolone (optional) for a vibrant finish.
- Pair with garlic bread, a Caesar salad, or steamed broccoli for a complete meal.
- Tip: Serve family-style in a large dish for gatherings, or portion into heart-shaped bowls for a romantic Valentine’s Day touch.
Assembly
Assembling Slow Cooker Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is all about creating a creamy, comforting plate. Here’s how to bring it together:
- Serve the Pasta: Spoon the cheesy pasta into bowls or plates, ensuring a generous amount of sauce and meat.
- Add Cheese: If not broiled, sprinkle extra provolone over each portion for a melty finish.
- Garnish: Add a sprinkle of chopped parsley or a pinch of black pepper for color and flavor.
- Presentation Tips:
- Use wide, shallow bowls to showcase the creamy sauce and golden cheese.
- Serve in a large casserole dish for a rustic, family-style presentation, or portion neatly for a polished look.
- Pair with crusty bread, roasted asparagus, or a green salad for a complete meal, perfect for Valentine’s Day.
Tip: For a romantic touch, garnish with a heart-shaped cheese sprinkle or serve with a side of heart-shaped garlic bread for Valentine’s Day.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Keep your Slow Cooker Philly Cheesesteak Pasta fresh and ready to enjoy with these tips:
- Storing Leftovers:
- Store cooled pasta and sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or milk to restore creaminess, or in the microwave (1–2 minutes, stirring halfway). Add extra provolone before serving.
- Make-Ahead Tips:
- Base: Prepare the beef, vegetable, and cream cheese mixture a day ahead, refrigerate, and reheat in the slow cooker on low for 1–2 hours before adding pasta.
- Pasta: Cook pasta up to 1 day ahead, toss with a little olive oil, and refrigerate. Reheat by tossing in the hot sauce.
- Full Dish: Assemble the dish (without broiling) a day ahead, refrigerate, and reheat in the slow cooker on low for 1–2 hours, adding cheese at the end.
- Freezing: Freeze the cooked beef and sauce mixture (without pasta) in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight, reheat, and toss with freshly cooked pasta. Avoid freezing cooked pasta, as it may become mushy.
Tip: Use leftovers in stuffed peppers, as a casserole base, or over toasted bread for a cheesy open-faced sandwich.
Recipe Variations
Slow Cooker Philly Cheesesteak Pasta is versatile and easy to customize. Try these creative twists:
- Spicy Kick: Add ½ tsp red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño with the vegetables for extra heat.
- Mushroom Boost: Sauté 1 cup sliced mushrooms with the onions for an earthy, cheesesteak-inspired addition.
- Cheesy Twist: Mix in ½ cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar with the provolone for a gooier texture.
- Vegetarian Version: Swap beef for plant-based meat, mushrooms, or eggplant, using vegetable broth, and cook for 3–4 hours on low.
- Creamy Alfredo Style: Add ¼ cup Parmesan and ½ cup heavy cream to the sauce for a richer, Alfredo-like flavor.
Tip: Keep the cream cheese and provolone for the Philly vibe, but adjust veggies or proteins to suit your taste.
Conclusion
You’re now ready to make Slow Cooker Philly Cheesesteak Pasta—a dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious! With its tender beef, creamy sauce, melty provolone, and hearty pasta, this recipe brings iconic cheesesteak flavors to your table with minimal effort. It’s perfect for Valentine’s Day dinners, family meals, or meal prep with a cozy twist. Customize with spices, veggies, or cheeses to make it your own, and enjoy the process as much as the meal. Grab your slow cooker, whip up this indulgent masterpiece, and savor every creamy, cheesy bite. Happy cooking!
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Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
Description
Ingredients
- Ground Beef or Steak Strips (1 lb, 80/20 ground beef preferred):
- Why it’s important: Provides the hearty, savory base inspired by Philly cheesesteaks.
- Substitutions: Ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat for vegetarian (adjust cooking time slightly for leaner meats).
- Green Bell Pepper (1, diced, ~1 cup):
- Why it’s important: Adds sweet, crunchy flavor typical of cheesesteaks.
- Substitutions: Red bell pepper, poblano pepper, or omit for a milder flavor.
- Onion (1, diced, ~1 cup):
- Why it’s important: Brings sweet, savory depth to the dish.
- Substitutions: Yellow or white onion, shallots, or 1 tsp onion powder.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced, ~2 tsp):
- Why it’s important: Infuses the dish with aromatic, savory flavor.
- Substitutions: ½ tsp garlic powder or 1 tsp garlic paste.
- Cream Cheese (8 oz, softened):
- Why it’s important: Creates a creamy, rich sauce base.
- Substitutions: Neufchâtel cheese for lower fat, vegan cream cheese, or Greek yogurt (thinner sauce).
- Shredded Provolone Cheese (1 cup):
- Why it’s important: Adds authentic, melty cheesesteak flavor.
- Substitutions: Mozzarella, cheddar, or vegan cheese.
- Pasta (12 oz, penne or rigatoni recommended):
- Why it’s important: Provides a hearty, sauce-catching base.
- Substitutions: Gluten-free pasta, fusilli, or ziti.
- Beef Broth (1 cup):
- Why it’s important: Forms the savory, saucy base of the dish.
- Substitutions: Vegetable broth, chicken broth, or water with a bouillon cube.
- Salt (to taste, about ½ tsp):
- Why it’s important: Enhances the flavors of the meat and sauce.
- Substitutions: Sea salt or kosher salt.
- Black Pepper (to taste, about ¼ tsp):
- Why it’s important: Adds mild heat and depth.
- Substitutions: White pepper or a pinch of cayenne.
- Olive Oil (1 tbsp):
- Why it’s important: Used for sautéing vegetables and meat.
- Substitutions: Vegetable oil, avocado oil, or butter.
Additional for Slow Cooker:
- Olive Oil or Cooking Spray (1 tbsp):
- Why it’s important: Prevents sticking in the slow cooker.
- Substitutions: Vegetable oil or avocado oil.
Tip: Use freshly shredded provolone for the best melt, and soften cream cheese at room temperature for easy blending. Choose a high-quality beef broth for a richer sauce.
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables and Meat
- In a large skillet over medium heat, heat 1 tbsp olive oil. Add 1 diced green bell pepper, 1 diced onion, and 2 minced garlic cloves. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add 1 lb ground beef or steak strips to the skillet. Cook, breaking up ground beef as needed, for 5–7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Season with ½ tsp salt and ¼ tsp black pepper.
- Drain excess fat if using ground beef, and set the mixture aside.
- Tip: Dice vegetables uniformly for even cooking, and avoid overcrowding the skillet to ensure proper browning.
Step 2: Assemble in the Slow Cooker
- Lightly grease the slow cooker insert with 1 tbsp olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Transfer the cooked beef and vegetable mixture to the slow cooker.
- Add 8 oz softened cream cheese (cut into chunks for easier melting) and 1 cup beef broth. Stir gently to combine.
- Tip: Scrape any browned bits from the skillet into the slow cooker for extra flavor, and ensure cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps.
Step 3: Slow Cook
- Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours, until the mixture is hot, the cream cheese is fully melted, and the flavors are melded.
- Stir halfway through cooking to ensure the cream cheese blends smoothly into the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add an extra ¼ cup broth.
- Tip: Check the sauce consistency near the end, and adjust with broth or water for a pourable texture.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
- About 15 minutes before the slow cooker is done, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 oz pasta (penne or rigatoni) and cook until al dente according to package instructions (typically 8–10 minutes).
- Drain the pasta and set aside, reserving ½ cup pasta water in case the sauce needs thinning.
- Tip: Rinse pasta briefly with cold water to stop cooking, but don’t over-rinse to retain some starch for sauce adhesion.
Step 5: Combine and Finish
- Add the cooked pasta to the slow cooker, tossing gently to coat in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water 1 tbsp at a time.
- Sprinkle 1 cup shredded provolone cheese over the pasta. Cover and cook on low for an additional 5–10 minutes until the cheese melts.
- For a bubbly, golden top (optional), transfer the mixture to a broiler-safe dish, sprinkle with extra provolone, and broil at 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden.
- Tip: Stir gently to avoid breaking the pasta, and watch closely during broiling to prevent burning.
Step 6: Serve
- Serve the pasta hot, spooned into bowls or plates, ensuring each portion has plenty of sauce and melted cheese.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or extra provolone (optional) for a vibrant finish.
- Pair with garlic bread, a Caesar salad, or steamed broccoli for a complete meal.
- Tip: Serve family-style in a large dish for gatherings, or portion into heart-shaped bowls for a romantic Valentine’s Day touch.
FAQs
Q: Can I use steak instead of ground beef?
A: Yes! Thinly sliced ribeye or sirloin works great; cook for the same time, ensuring it’s tender before adding pasta.
Q: Is this recipe healthy?
A: It’s protein-rich but high in fat due to cream cheese and provolone. Use leaner meat, low-fat cream cheese, or add veggies for a lighter option.
Q: Can I make this in an Instant Pot?
A: The slow cooker is better for a creamy sauce, but use the “Slow Cooker” function with the same times. Pressure cooking may curdle the cream cheese.
Q: Why is my sauce too thick?
A: Overcooking or insufficient liquid can thicken the sauce. Add extra broth or pasta water to thin it out before serving.
Q: Can I make this vegetarian or vegan?
A: Yes! Swap beef for plant-based meat or mushrooms, use vegetable broth, vegan cream cheese, and vegan cheese. Cook for 3–4 hours on low.
Q: What sides go well with this dish?
A: Pair with garlic bread, a green salad, or roasted zucchini. A glass of iced tea or light red wine complements the cheesy flavors, perfect for a Valentine’s Day meal!
