Philly Cheesesteak Casserole Recipe

If you love Philly cheesesteaks, you’re going to fall head over heels for this mouthwatering Philly Cheesesteak Casserole recipe. It's a delicious twist on the classic sandwich that takes all the iconic flavors of beef, onions, peppers, and cheese and transforms them into a comforting, cheesy casserole. This dish is perfect for feeding a hungry crowd, meal prepping, or simply enjoying as a quick weeknight dinner. Read on to learn how to make this tasty, hearty meal that will surely become a family favorite!

What is a Philly Cheesesteak Casserole?

A Philly cheesesteak casserole is a casserole-style dish inspired by the classic Philly cheesesteak sandwich. The traditional Philly cheesesteak is made with thinly sliced ribeye steak, sautéed onions, and bell peppers, all topped with melted cheese and served on a hoagie roll. In this casserole version, we take those same delicious ingredients but swap out the hoagie roll for a hearty base, such as pasta or even low-carb cauliflower, making it more versatile and easier to prepare for a crowd.

This casserole keeps the signature cheesesteak flavors intact while offering a different texture and format that is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep.

Ingredients List for Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

Here are the ingredients you will need to make a Philly Cheesesteak Casserole:

• 1.5 lbs ground beef or thinly sliced steak (traditional ribeye or any lean ground beef will work)
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 ½ cups shredded provolone cheese (or cheese of choice like mozzarella or cheddar)
• ½ cup cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup heavy cream (for extra creaminess)
• 2 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing vegetables)
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (to enhance the beefy flavor)
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Optional: 2 cups cooked pasta (such as penne, ziti, or elbow) or 2 cups cooked cauliflower for a low-carb version

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

Cooking is all about flexibility, so feel free to make the following substitutions and variations in your Philly cheesesteak casserole:

• Protein: Traditional Philly cheesesteaks are made with ribeye steak, but you can easily substitute it with ground beef, ground turkey, or even chicken for a different twist.
• Cheese: Provolone cheese is the classic choice, but you can use cheddar, mozzarella, or even a mix of cheeses for added flavor. If you prefer a more authentic “whiz” experience, you can melt some cheese sauce or Velveeta on top!
• Low-Carb Option: If you want to cut down on carbs, swap out the pasta for cooked cauliflower florets. You can also use zoodles (zucchini noodles) or spaghetti squash.
• Vegetables: While bell peppers and onions are a must for that authentic Philly taste, you can add other vegetables like mushrooms or spinach to the casserole for extra nutrients.
• Cream: For a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or even whole milk. However, this will affect the richness of the final dish.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple step-by-step cooking instructions to create a satisfying Philly cheesesteak casserole:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large baking dish with a bit of olive oil or butter to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the beef: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef or sliced steak, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.
3. Sauté the vegetables: In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the sliced onions and bell peppers. Sauté until they are soft and slightly caramelized, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
4. Combine the beef and veggies: Return the cooked beef to the skillet with the sautéed veggies. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix everything well and let it cook together for another 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors.
5. Prepare the cheese mixture: In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and heavy cream until smooth. This will be the creamy base for your casserole.
6. Assemble the casserole: In your prepared baking dish, spread the cooked pasta or cauliflower evenly at the bottom (if using). Pour the beef and vegetable mixture over the base. Drizzle the cream cheese mixture evenly across the top. Finally, sprinkle the shredded provolone cheese over everything.
7. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
8. Cool and serve: Let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle. Enjoy!

How to Cook Philly Cheesesteak Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s a more detailed breakdown of how to cook this delicious Philly Cheesesteak Casserole:

1. Meat Prep: Whether you’re using ribeye steak or ground beef, the key to a great casserole is ensuring the meat is browned evenly. If using steak, slice it thinly to mimic the texture of a traditional cheesesteak.
2. Vegetable Cooking: Properly sautéed onions and bell peppers are essential for recreating the Philly cheesesteak flavor. Make sure to cook them until they are soft but not mushy, and add garlic last to prevent burning.
3. Layering: Layering the ingredients is crucial to ensure every bite is packed with flavor. Start with the pasta or cauliflower base, add the beef and veggie mix, and finish with your cheese and cream layers.
4. Melting the Cheese: For that ooey-gooey cheesiness, make sure the cheese melts and browns in the oven. If you want a crispy topping, you can broil the casserole for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a Philly Cheesesteak Casserole, be aware of these common mistakes:

• Overcooking the beef: Cooking the meat too long can make it dry and tough. Be sure to remove it from the heat as soon as it browns.
• Undercooking the vegetables: If the onions and peppers are undercooked, they will be crunchy and won’t blend well with the other ingredients. Make sure to sauté them until soft.
• Too much liquid: Avoid adding too much cream or broth to the casserole, as it can make the final dish too runny. Stick to the recipe’s measurements for best results.
• Not seasoning enough: Cheesesteak flavors depend heavily on proper seasoning. Taste and adjust your salt, pepper, and spices before layering everything into the casserole.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation is key to making this Philly Cheesesteak Casserole as appetizing as it tastes. Here are a few tips to make your dish stand out:

• Garnish with fresh herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or chives on top will add a burst of color and freshness.
• Use a cast-iron skillet: If you have a cast-iron skillet, you can assemble and bake the casserole right in the skillet, adding a rustic presentation to your dish.
• Serve with crusty bread: While the casserole is hearty on its own, serving it alongside crusty garlic bread or rolls can mimic the traditional hoagie roll experience.

How to Serve Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

This dish is incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways:

• With sides: Serve it alongside a green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread for a complete meal.
• As leftovers: This casserole reheats well, making it perfect for lunch the next day. Just pop it in the microwave or oven to warm it up.
• Family-style: Place the casserole in the center of the table and let everyone dig in. It’s perfect for casual dinners and gatherings.

Presentation Ideas for Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

Want to impress your guests with the presentation of your Philly Cheesesteak Casserole? Here are a few ideas:

• Use individual ramekins: For a more elegant presentation, serve the casserole in individual ramekins or small baking dishes.
• Top with extra cheese: Just before serving, sprinkle a bit more cheese on top and broil the casserole to get a crispy cheese layer.
• Add a sauce drizzle: For extra flair, drizzle some cheese sauce or melted provolone on top for a gooey finish.

Philly Cheesesteak Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make it ahead: You can assemble this casserole the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Simply bake it the next day for a quick dinner.
• Double the recipe: This casserole freezes well. Double the ingredients and freeze one for later. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake when needed.
• Try different cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for a spicier kick or Swiss for a mild, nutty flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this casserole low-carb?
A: Yes, substitute the pasta for cooked cauliflower or zucchini noodles for a low-carb version of the casserole.

Q: What’s the best beef for Philly cheesesteak casserole?
A: Thinly sliced ribeye is the traditional choice, but ground beef is a quicker, more convenient alternative.

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, refrigerate it, and bake it when ready to serve.

Q: Can I freeze the casserole?
A: Yes, this casserole freezes well. Wrap it tightly in foil or store it in an airtight container before freezing.

Conclusion

The Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is a creative and satisfying way to enjoy all the flavors of the classic sandwich in an easy-to-make, family-friendly dish. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this casserole will hit the spot every time. With its layers of tender beef, sautéed veggies, and creamy cheese, it's sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. So, grab your ingredients and get ready to bake this hearty, cheesy delight!

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