👉Crockpot Philly Cheesesteak Mac and Cheese

Crockpot Philly Cheesesteak Mac and Cheese

This recipe takes the iconic flavors of a Philly Cheesesteak—savory steak, sautéed peppers, and onions—and combines them with creamy, cheesy pasta goodness. It’s a cozy one-pot meal that’s perfect for weeknights when you want something comforting without the hassle!

🛒 Ingredients:

1 lb pasta 🍝
(Choose a sturdy pasta like penne, rigatoni, or elbow macaroni to hold up in the crockpot.)
2 cups beef broth 🥣
(For rich, savory flavor.)
1 lb thinly sliced steak 🥩
(Sirloin or ribeye work best for tenderness.)
1 green bell pepper, sliced 🫑
(Adds sweetness and a signature cheesesteak touch.)
1 onion, sliced 🧅
(Yellow or white onions add the right balance of sweetness and flavor.)
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese 🧀
(For a gooey, stretchy texture.)
1 cup shredded provolone cheese 🧀
(Brings that classic cheesesteak taste.)
1 cup milk 🥛
(Helps create the creamy sauce.)
1/2 cup sour cream 🥄
(Adds tanginess and extra creaminess.)
Salt and pepper, to taste 🧂
(Season as needed.)

👩‍🍳 Instructions:

1. Prepare your ingredients:
Gather and measure all the ingredients so that assembly is quick and smooth.

2. Layer in the Crockpot:
Add the pasta, beef broth, sliced steak, green bell pepper, and onion to your crockpot. Stir to evenly distribute everything.

3. Add the Cheese and Creaminess:
Pour in the mozzarella, provolone, milk, and sour cream. Stir until all ingredients are well-combined. Make sure the pasta is mostly submerged in liquid for even cooking.

4. Slow Cook to Perfection:
Cover the crockpot and cook on Low for 4-6 hours, or until the pasta is cooked through and the steak is tender. (Check occasionally around the 4-hour mark to prevent overcooking.)

5. Season and Serve:
Once the pasta is perfectly tender and the cheese has melted into a creamy, dreamy sauce, season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Serve Hot and Enjoy:
Ladle the mac and cheese into bowls, and enjoy a cozy, indulgent twist on both mac and cheese and the classic Philly Cheesesteak!

💡 Helpful Tips:

Choose the Right Steak Cut: For best results, use thinly sliced sirloin or ribeye steak. These cuts become tender and juicy in the slow cooker.
Check the Pasta: If you prefer al dente pasta, start checking around the 4-hour mark. Every slow cooker cooks differently, so adjust as needed.
Prevent Clumping: To avoid pasta clumping, stir halfway through cooking.
Cheese Options: If you prefer, you can substitute cheddar cheese for a sharper flavor.

🧀 Storage and Reheating:

Storing Leftovers: Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway. Add a splash of milk if needed to revive the creamy texture.

🔍 Frequently Asked Questions:

Q1: Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Short pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or rotini work best as they hold up in the slow cooker.

Q2: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap the regular pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta. Be mindful of cooking times as some gluten-free pastas cook faster.

Q3: What if I don’t have provolone cheese?
No problem! Use another mild, melty cheese like Monterey Jack or more mozzarella.

Q4: Can I add more vegetables?
Sure! Mushrooms, red bell peppers, or even spinach can add extra flavor and texture.

Q5: Can I cook this on high?
If you’re short on time, cook on High for 2-3 hours. Just check the pasta for doneness earlier.