This Philly Cheesesteak Casserole combines tender steak, melty cheese, and pasta shells in a creamy, comforting bake. It's a flavorful twist on the classic sandwich that comes together quickly for a satisfying weeknight meal.
If you love the bold flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak, this steak and cheese casserole is a delicious way to enjoy them in a hearty baked dish. It's loaded with shaved steak, green peppers, onions, and mozzarella, all tossed in a creamy Alfredo sauce and baked to bubbly perfection. We make this when we're craving takeout comfort but want something warm and homemade from the oven.
Looking for more pasta casseroles to add to your rotation? These other recipes are sure to hit the spot, like Ritz chicken casserole and easy chicken noodle casserole.
Jump to:
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple steps and minimal prep, this Philly cheesesteak casserole recipe comes together in just 40 minutes.
- Comforting and Hearty: Creamy Alfredo sauce, melted mozzarella, and pasta shells make it a satisfying meal.
- Family Friendly: Kids and adults both love the cheesy, steak-packed flavor in this classic Philly steak casserole; it's a crowd-pleaser every time.
- Great for Leftovers: This cheesesteak casserole tastes just as good reheated, perfect for next-day lunches or meal prep.
Ingredients
- Pasta Shells: Small pasta shells work best to hold the creamy sauce and steak in every bite. Cooking until al dente prevents them from becoming mushy in this Philly cheesesteak casserole with noodles.
- Shaved Steak or Ground Beef: For an authentic Philly cheesesteak casserole recipe with steak, use thinly shaved steak. Ground beef can also be used.
- Green Bell Pepper and Onion: These vegetables add crunch and sweetness, balancing the rich flavors. Choose firm, brightly colored peppers and firm white onions for the best taste and texture.
- Alfredo Sauce: This creamy sauce brings richness and helps bind all the ingredients together.
- Mozzarella Cheese: Mozzarella melts beautifully to create a gooey, cheesy topping. Use shredded fresh mozzarella from the dairy section for the best melt and stretch in this easy Philly cheese casserole.
See the recipe card below for exact ingredient amounts, nutritional information, and detailed instructions.
Variations
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta shells and ensure your Alfredo sauce is gluten-free to make this casserole safe for gluten-sensitive diets without sacrificing taste.
- Cheese Mix: Try a blend of provolone and mozzarella cheeses for a richer, more authentic cheesesteak flavor in your pasta casserole.
- Add Crunch: Top the casserole with toasted breadcrumbs or crushed crispy onions before baking to add a crunchy texture contrast to this creamy Philly cheesesteak bake.
- Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper when cooking the peppers and onions for a spicy twist.
How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole
Making this easy Philly cheesesteak casserole is simple and satisfying. Start by prepping your ingredients and preheating the oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
- Step 1: Cook the Pasta. Boil the pasta shells in salted water according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside to cool slightly.
- Step 2: Cook the Steak. Season the shaved steak with salt, black pepper, and onion powder. Cook the steak in a heated skillet with olive oil for about 5-6 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables. Add the sliced green bell pepper and onion to the same skillet with butter to cook until they soften.
- Step 4: Combine Ingredients. Mix the cooked pasta, steak, sautéed vegetables, and Alfredo sauce in a large bowl until everything is evenly coated.
- Step 5: Assemble and Bake. Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the top. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
Hint: Let It Rest Before Serving
Allow the casserole to cool for 5-10 minutes after baking, allowing it to set slightly, which makes it easier to serve and enjoy.
Expert Tips
- Use Al Dente Pasta: Cook the pasta just until al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy during baking. It will continue to cook slightly in the oven.
- Thinly Slice the Steak: If using shaved steak, make sure it's thinly sliced so it cooks quickly and stays tender. If making a Philly cheesesteak casserole with ground beef, break it up well for even cooking.
- Sauté Vegetables Separately: Cooking the peppers and onions before combining helps develop their flavor and prevents excess moisture in the casserole.
- Don't Overload with Sauce: Use just enough Alfredo sauce to coat the ingredients without making the casserole too wet, which can lead to sogginess.
Storage Directions
- Storing: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheating: Warm individual portions in the microwave on medium power for 30-60 second intervals until heated through. Alternatively, reheat in a 350°F oven covered with foil for about 15 minutes.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake it straight from the fridge-just add a few extra minutes to the baking time for best results.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve it at your next family gathering or potluck; it's easy to make in a large batch and sure to please a crowd. Add a side of baked breadsticks or garlic knots for extra indulgence.
- It's a great meal prep option for easy lunches throughout the week. Enjoy a slice of zucchini bread for a satisfying sweet end to your meal.
- For a cozy Sunday dinner, enjoy this casserole alongside some brown sugar glazed carrots for a balanced plate.
Recipe FAQs
Shaved ribeye or sirloin steak works great for authentic flavor and tenderness. If you can't find shaved steak, thinly sliced steak, or ground beef are good alternatives.
Due to the creamy sauce and pasta, freezing isn't recommended, as it may affect the texture when thawed and reheated.
Yes! While small pasta shells work best to hold the sauce and steak, you can substitute with elbow macaroni, penne, or rotini if that's what you have on hand.
More Delicious Steak Recipes
We would love it if you would leave a 5 Star ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ rating below. Then follow me on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest! Share your favorite recipes or ask questions in my Facebook Group.
Philly Cheesesteak Casserole
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 pound small pasta shells
- 1 pound shaved steak or ground beef
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 medium green bell pepper seeded and sliced
- ½ white onion sliced
- 15 ounces alfredo sauce
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and spray a 9x13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Season the shaved steak with black pepper, onion powder, and salt
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil and cook the steak for 5-6 minutes, until it is browned and cooked through. Remove the steak and set aside.
- Melt butter, then add bell pepper and onion. Cook for 4-5 minutes or until softened.
- Add pasta, steak, bell peppers, onions, and Alfredo sauce to a large bowl. Toss until well coated, then add to the prepared baking dish.
- Top with cheese and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve while hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Cook the pasta just until al dente so it holds its shape after baking.
- Shaved steak gives the most authentic flavor, but ground beef can be used.
- Sauté the peppers and onions before mixing them in; this helps release moisture and brings out their sweetness.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days and reheat gently in the microwave or oven.
Nutrition
*All nutrition information provided is automatically calculated and is an estimate and will vary based on ingredients, brands, and changes in cooking methods listed in the recipe. If you need exact numbers on your ingredients, I would recommend calculating them with your prefered nutrition calculator.
Ryan Allen
If you love cheese steaks you will love this easy and yummy casserole.