Name: Philly Cheesesteak Casserole with Pasta and Ground Beef Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 ounces cavatappi or any small shaped pasta; 1 ½ pounds ground beef; 3 teaspoons Montreal steak seasoning (divided); 1 teaspoon olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 16 ounces white American cheese, shredded; 2 ½ cups half-and-half; 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce; 4 ounces cream cheese; 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded and divided; 4 tablespoons butter; ⅔ cups panko bread crumbs; ⅛ teaspoon salt; ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 43 reviews

If you have ever dreamed of capturing the ultimate Philly cheesesteak flavor in a cozy, family-friendly meal, the Philly Cheesesteak Casserole with Pasta and Ground Beef Recipe is your new best friend. This dish brilliantly brings together tender pasta, savory ground beef, and that unmistakable cheesy goodness all baked to bubbly perfection. The combination of melting cheeses, sautéed peppers, onions, and mushrooms layered with hearty pasta makes every bite an irresistible, comforting celebration of Philly’s classic sandwich in casserole form. It’s a hearty, crowd-pleasing recipe that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or feeding a hungry group with minimal fuss but maximum flavor.

Ingredients You'll Need

A white cooking pot filled with cooked vegetables, showing one layer of sliced brown mushrooms mixed with chopped green bell peppers and onions. The mushrooms have a soft texture and light brown color, the peppers are small green pieces, and the onions are translucent white and diced. A wooden spoon with a light brown color rests inside the pot, partially covered by the vegetables. The pot is placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Each ingredient in the Philly Cheesesteak Casserole with Pasta and Ground Beef Recipe plays an essential role in creating that rich, savory, and creamy experience. From the seasoning that punches up the beef to the combination of cheeses that melt into a luscious sauce, this simple lineup packs incredible flavor and texture.

Pasta (12 ounces): Cavatappi or any small pasta shape works great to hold sauce and blend all the flavors beautifully.

Ground beef (1 ½ pounds): The hearty base that brings that classic Philly steak essence into the casserole.
Montreal steak seasoning (3 teaspoons, divided): Adds authentic savory kick to both the beef and cheese sauce.
Olive oil (1 teaspoon): Helps soften the veggies perfectly without overpowering their natural flavors.

Onion (1 medium, diced): Brings sweetness and texture contrast alongside the beef.
Bell pepper (1, diced): Adds crunch and vibrant color to brighten the dish.
Mushrooms (8 ounces, sliced): Earthy umami flavor that deepens the casserole’s savory notes.

Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Delivers aromatic depth that complements all the other ingredients.
White American cheese (16 ounces, shredded): Creates that creamy, smooth cheese sauce base essential for rich cheesesteak flavor.
Half-and-half (2 ½ cups): Makes the sauce luxuriously creamy without being too heavy.

Worcestershire sauce (1 teaspoon): Adds a subtle tangy complexity that enhances the meatiness.
Cream cheese (4 ounces): Extra silky texture to lift the cheese sauce.
Mozzarella cheese (8 ounces, shredded and divided): Melts beautifully on top and inside for gooey cheese pull moments.

Butter (4 tablespoons): Combines with the panko for a crunchy, golden topping.
Panko bread crumbs (⅔ cups): Adds the perfect crispy finish to balance creamy pasta.
Salt (⅛ teaspoon): Enhances every element without overwhelming.
Parmesan cheese (¼ cup, grated): A salty, nutty flavor boost in the breadcrumb topping.

How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Casserole with Pasta and Ground Beef Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Cook Pasta

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to get it ready for baking later. Meanwhile, cook your pasta according to the package directions in well-salted water. Once perfectly al dente, drain the pasta and return it to the pot. This gives you the perfect canvas for soaking up all that luscious cheese sauce later.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add your ground beef along with 1 teaspoon of Montreal steak seasoning. Cook it until it’s nicely browned and cooked through, which usually takes about 7-10 minutes. Drain the grease, remove the beef from the skillet, and set it aside. This step infuses the beef with a bold seasoning that is the heart of the cheesesteak flavor.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, drizzle in olive oil and add your diced onions, bell peppers, and sliced mushrooms. Cook these over medium-high heat until they soften and their sweet, earthy aromas fill your kitchen—about 5 minutes. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, then remove the pan from the heat. These vegetables add vibrant color and a fresh, tender contrast to the rich meat and cheese.

Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a separate saucepan over medium heat, combine the half-and-half with shredded white American cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese has melted into a silky sauce. Next, add the cream cheese, stirring until smooth, then season with 2 teaspoons of Montreal steak seasoning and Worcestershire sauce. Remove from heat and stir in half of the mozzarella cheese until melted. This cheese sauce is the creamy, savory glue that brings all the components of the casserole together.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Pour the cheese sauce over your cooked pasta, then fold in the cooked ground beef and sautéed vegetables until everything is evenly combined. Transfer the mixture into a deep 9x13 casserole dish, smoothing it out gently. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese evenly over the top for that irresistible golden cheese finish.

Step 6: Add the Crispy Topping and Bake

In a small bowl, melt the butter and mix in panko bread crumbs, grated Parmesan, and salt using a fork until thoroughly combined. Sprinkle this crunchy mixture over the casserole’s surface. Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, until you see bubbly edges and a beautifully golden, crispy topping. The contrast between the creamy interior and crunchy topping is pure magic.

How to Serve Philly Cheesesteak Casserole with Pasta and Ground Beef Recipe

The dish is a baked casserole shown in a black baking pan with a textured golden brown crumb topping that covers the whole surface. The crumb layer is thick with small bits, sprinkled with tiny green herbs. Below the crumb, a creamy white cheese layer is visible, stretching slightly as a wooden spoon scoops a portion out, revealing light brown macaroni and pieces of mushroom mixed in a cheesy sauce. The background is a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes elevate this hearty dish effortlessly. Try sprinkling chopped fresh parsley or chives on top for a vibrant burst of color and a light herbal note that cuts through the richness. A few red pepper flakes can add a gentle kick for those who love a little heat.

Side Dishes

This casserole shines as the star of the meal, so keep side dishes simple but fresh. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides refreshing contrast, while roasted or steamed green beans or broccoli add a nutritious balance and a pop of color on your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun serving twist, spoon this Philly Cheesesteak Casserole with Pasta and Ground Beef Recipe into individual ramekins for perfectly portioned personal casseroles. Another playful idea is to serve it alongside toasted garlic bread to soak up every bit of the cheesy sauce. It’s comfort food that everyone will feel special enjoying!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. The casserole’s flavors tend to deepen overnight, making for an even more delicious next-day meal.

Freezing

This casserole freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or wrap the entire casserole tightly with foil and plastic wrap, then freeze for up to 2 months. Just be sure to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to maintain its creamy texture and flavor.

Reheating

To reheat, warm servings in the microwave or oven until heated through and bubbly again. For oven reheating, cover the dish with foil and bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 20 minutes, uncovering for the last 5 minutes to crisp up the topping once more. This keeps the texture and cheesy appeal spot on.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of ground meat in this casserole?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used for a lighter option, but keep in mind that the robust flavor of beef really complements the Philly cheesesteak style. If you substitute, consider adding extra seasoning to boost flavor.

What if I don’t have Montreal steak seasoning?

You can create a simple substitute by mixing salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and a dash of smoked paprika. It won’t be exact but will still bring a delicious, savory kick to the dish.

Is there a way to make this casserole gluten-free?

Definitely. Use gluten-free pasta and substitute panko bread crumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but always check labels to be sure.

Can I prepare this casserole in advance and bake it later?

Yes! Assemble the casserole and keep it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a fantastic option for busy days or when meal prepping for the week.

How spicy is this Philly Cheesesteak Casserole with Pasta and Ground Beef Recipe?

The casserole has a mild, savory flavor profile with just a hint of seasoning heat from the Montreal steak seasoning. It is not spicy, but you can easily add red pepper flakes or hot sauce for more heat if you like.

Final Thoughts

There’s something genuinely heartwarming about this Philly Cheesesteak Casserole with Pasta and Ground Beef Recipe that makes it an instant favorite for casual dinners and feeding family or friends without the hassle. The way it combines familiar, beloved flavors into one easy, cheesy, and satisfying meal is pure magic. I can’t wait for you to try it yourself and enjoy a taste of Philly comfort in the best way possible.

Philly Cheesesteak Casserole with Pasta and Ground Beef Recipe

Ingredients You'll Need