Philly Cheese Steak Casserole

Philly Cheese Steak Casserole

Philly Cheese Steak Casserole is a delicious and hearty twist on the classic Philly cheese steak sandwich. Packed with ground beef, bell peppers, onions, and melted Provolone cheese, this casserole brings all the flavor of a Philly cheese steak in a comforting, easy-to-make dish. It’s perfect for a family dinner or when you’re craving that Philly-style flavor in a different form!

Why Philly Cheese Steak Casserole is So Irresistible

What makes Philly Cheese Steak Casserole so irresistible is the combination of savory beef, tender vegetables, and melted Provolone cheese all baked together into a creamy, satisfying dish. The egg and cream mixture creates a smooth texture that binds everything together, and the warm, gooey cheese adds a rich finish. The seasoned salt, paprika, and black pepper give it just the right amount of flavor, making each bite taste like a Philly cheese steak without the bread!

Philly Cheese Steak Casserole Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Casserole:
  • 1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef
  • 2 bell peppers, diced
  • 1/2 yellow onion, diced
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
  • 4 slices Provolone cheese
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Philly Cheese Steak Casserole

Here’s how to create this cheesy, savory casserole:

1. Preheat the Oven
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the Ground Beef
   In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it’s fully cooked, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess fat from the beef.
3. Cook the Vegetables
   Add the diced bell peppers, onion, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.
4. Prepare the Egg Mixture
   In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, seasoned salt, black pepper, and paprika until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
5. Combine the Beef and Egg Mixture
   Stir the cooked beef and vegetable mixture into the egg mixture, making sure everything is well combined.
6. Assemble the Casserole
   Transfer the beef and egg mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Tear the Provolone cheese slices into pieces and distribute them evenly over the top of the casserole.
7. Bake
   Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the eggs are fully set and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
8. Garnish and Serve
   Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired, and enjoy!

Key Ingredients for Perfect Philly Cheese Steak Casserole

For this cheesy, savory casserole, these ingredients are essential:

• Ground Beef: Lean ground beef provides a flavorful base for this casserole. You can also use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Provolone Cheese: This melty cheese gives the casserole that signature Philly cheese steak flavor. You can substitute with mozzarella or cheddar if preferred.
• Bell Peppers and Onions: These vegetables add crunch and sweetness, which balances the richness of the beef and cheese.
• Eggs and Heavy Cream: The egg mixture creates the creamy texture that holds everything together and gives the casserole a comforting, custard-like consistency.

Exploring Variations for Your Philly Cheese Steak Casserole

While this recipe is fantastic as is, feel free to mix it up with some variations:

• Add Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms would be a great addition to this casserole, providing an earthy flavor that complements the beef.
• Spicy Twist: Add some sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to give the casserole a spicy kick.
• Make it a One-Pot Dish: For a quicker version, cook the ground beef, veggies, and egg mixture all in the same pan before transferring to the oven to bake.

Tips for Perfect Philly Cheese Steak Casserole Every Time

• Brown the Beef Well: Make sure the ground beef is well-browned for maximum flavor. This step adds depth to the overall taste of the casserole.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When cooking the beef and vegetables, ensure that the pan isn’t overcrowded so that everything cooks evenly.
• Use Full-Fat Cream for a Richer Sauce: Using full-fat cream ensures the sauce is thick and creamy. You can use lighter versions, but the casserole may be less creamy.

The Magic of the Sauce

The magic of Philly Cheese Steak Casserole lies in the creamy sauce that holds everything together. The combination of eggs, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese creates a velvety sauce that coats the beef and vegetables perfectly. The cheese adds a rich, indulgent touch that makes this casserole feel like a comforting, hearty meal.

Nutritional Information for Health-Conscious Eaters

Here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown for each serving of Philly Cheese Steak Casserole (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: 450 kcal
• Fat: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Protein: 35g
• Fiber: 3g

For a lighter version, you can reduce the amount of cheese or swap the cream for a lighter alternative.

Storing and Freezing Your Philly Cheese Steak Casserole

To Store: Let the casserole cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
To Freeze: Freeze the casserole in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore the sauce’s consistency.

Serving Suggestions for Philly Cheese Steak Casserole

This dish is hearty on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a side of roasted vegetables, a fresh green salad, or garlic bread. You can also serve it with a simple side of pickles or potato wedges for a more complete meal.

Essential Cooking Tools and Equipment

For this recipe, you’ll need:

• Large skillet for cooking the beef and vegetables
• Whisk for mixing the egg mixture
• 9×13-inch baking dish for assembling the casserole
• Knife and cutting board for chopping vegetables

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes! While Provolone cheese is traditional for Philly cheese steaks, you can substitute it with mozzarella, cheddar, or even Swiss cheese for a different flavor profile.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole up to 2 days in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake.

How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.

Quick and Easy Philly Cheese Steak Casserole Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef
• 10 oz penne pasta
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

1. Brown the beef and cook the vegetables.
2. Make the egg mixture with cream, Parmesan, and seasonings.
3. Assemble the casserole and bake until bubbly.

Key Takeaways

Philly Cheese Steak Casserole is an easy, comforting dish that combines the rich flavors of a Philly cheese steak with the creamy goodness of a casserole. It’s a great meal for family dinners, potlucks, or a cozy night in!