Description
All the delicious flavors of a Philly cheesesteak packed into a hearty, cheesy pasta bake! This Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Bake is a comforting, crowd-pleasing casserole loaded with seasoned ground beef, tender bell peppers, onions, and melty cheese—all baked to perfection with pasta. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner or potluck star.
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Ingredients
For the Pasta Bake:
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12 oz penne or rotini pasta
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1 lb ground beef
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1 tbsp olive oil
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1 small yellow onion, diced
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1 green bell pepper, diced
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1 red bell pepper, diced
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tsp salt
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½ tsp black pepper
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1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
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½ tsp paprika (optional for extra depth)
For the Cheese Sauce:
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2 tbsp butter
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2 tbsp all-purpose flour
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2 cups milk (whole or 2% recommended)
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1½ cups shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese
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½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
For Topping:
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½ cup extra shredded cheese (provolone, mozzarella, or cheddar)
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Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook the pasta until al dente according to package directions.
Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Meat and Veggies
In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat.
Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.
Add onions, green and red bell peppers, and garlic.
Sauté until the veggies are tender (about 5-6 minutes).
Season with salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and paprika.
Remove from heat.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute until lightly golden.
Gradually add the milk while whisking to avoid lumps.
Cook until the sauce thickens slightly (3-4 minutes).
Reduce heat and stir in the provolone and cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
Step 4: Combine and Assemble
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large mixing bowl or directly in the baking dish, combine the cooked pasta, beef mixture, and cheese sauce.
Stir until everything is evenly coated.
Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 5: Bake and Serve
Top the casserole with extra shredded cheese.
Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top.
Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Notes
Cook Pasta Al Dente – It will continue cooking in the oven, so don’t overboil.
Use Melty Cheese – Provolone or mozzarella are perfect for that classic cheesesteak flavor.
Make Ahead – Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Add Mushrooms – Sauté sliced mushrooms with the veggies for added flavor.
Swap Meats – Use shaved steak slices or ground turkey for a different take.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Cuisine: American