Craving the iconic taste of a Philly cheesesteak but seeking a comforting, easy-to-make dinner solution? Look no further! This Philly Cheesesteak Casserole brings all those beloved flavors – savory steak, sweet sautéed peppers and onions, and a generous layer of melted cheese – into a convenient, crowd-pleasing bake. It’s the perfect dish for a cozy family meal or when you need something satisfying without all the fuss of individual sandwiches.
This casserole takes the classic elements of a Philly Cheesesteak and transforms them into a hearty, fork-friendly meal. The preparation is straightforward, making it an ideal choice for weeknights, potlucks, or any occasion where delicious comfort food is on the menu.
Why This Casserole Will Become Your New Favorite
Our Philly Cheesesteak Casserole isn't just a meal; it's an experience. Here’s why you'll adore it:
- Effortless Preparation: Most of the cooking happens in one baking dish, minimizing cleanup and maximizing flavor.
- Packed with Flavor: Each bite delivers the authentic taste of a well-made cheesesteak, enhanced by the casserole format.
- Family-Friendly: It’s a dish that appeals to nearly everyone, from picky eaters to gourmet enthusiasts.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Hearty enough for a main meal, yet simple enough for a casual gathering.
Key Ingredients for Your Casserole
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful casserole. You'll need:
- Steak: Thinly sliced ribeye or sirloin are ideal for that authentic tender texture.
- Vegetables: Onions and bell peppers (any color you prefer!) create the sweet and savory base.
- Garlic: Essential for aromatic depth.
- Base: Cooked pasta (penne, rotini, or similar) or diced potatoes provide a hearty foundation.
- Cheese: Provolone is traditional, but a blend of provolone and mozzarella works wonderfully for extra meltiness.
- Liquid: Beef broth and a touch of Worcestershire sauce add richness.
- Seasonings & Oil: Salt, pepper, and olive oil round out the ingredient list.
For more beef and potato comfort, you might also enjoy our Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes or a flavorful Hearty French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole.
How to Make Your Philly Cheesesteak Casserole
Creating this delicious casserole is easier than you think. Follow these simple steps for a perfect result:
Prepping for Perfection
Before you begin, make sure your oven is preheated and your ingredients are ready to go. This ensures a smooth and quick cooking process.
Cooking the Components
The magic starts by browning your steak and sautéing the vegetables. This builds the foundational flavors that make this casserole so special.
Assembling Your Casserole
Once the steak and veggies are cooked, it's all about combining everything in your baking dish. Layering the ingredients ensures every spoonful is packed with flavor.
Baking to Golden Perfection
A quick bake in the oven allows the flavors to meld and the cheese to melt into a bubbly, golden crust. Patience is key for that perfect finish!
Tips for the Best Philly Cheesesteak Casserole
- Thinly Slice Your Steak: For optimal texture, aim for very thin slices. Partially freezing the steak for about 30 minutes can make slicing easier.
- Don't Overcook the Steak: You're looking for browned, not dry. It will continue to cook in the oven.
- Customization is Key: Feel free to add sliced mushrooms, green bell peppers, or even a different type of cheese like Monterey Jack or cheddar for a twist.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but if you're looking to round out your dinner, consider:
- A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette.
- Crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping into any extra sauce.
- Steamed broccoli or green beans for added vegetables.
Storage and Reheating
Leftovers of this Philly Cheesesteak Casserole are just as delicious! Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until heated through.
Final Thoughts
This Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is a delightful twist on a beloved classic, offering all the savory, cheesy goodness in an easy-to-prepare format. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or any time you need a hearty, satisfying meal. Give it a try and watch it become a regular in your recipe rotation!
FAQs
Can I use ground beef instead of thinly sliced steak in this casserole?
Absolutely! Ground beef is a fantastic and often more economical substitute for thinly sliced steak. Simply brown and season it as you would the steak before combining with the other ingredients.
What are some good side dishes to serve with Philly Cheesesteak Casserole?
This casserole is quite hearty on its own, but a fresh green salad, some crispy garlic bread, or even a side of roasted asparagus would complement it beautifully.
How can I make this casserole ahead of time for a busy weeknight?
You can assemble the entire casserole, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Add an extra 10-15 minutes to the covered baking time if baking directly from the fridge.
What type of pasta or potatoes works best for Philly Cheesesteak Casserole?
For pasta, medium-sized shapes like penne, rotini, or even egg noodles work well. If using potatoes, diced Yukon Golds or red potatoes hold their shape nicely and absorb the flavors beautifully.
Philly Cheesesteak Casserole
- Total Time: 50-55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Standard
Description
A comforting and hearty casserole that brings the savory flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak to your dinner table with tender steak, sautéed peppers and onions, and gooey melted provolone.
Ingredients
1 pound thinly sliced steak (such as ribeye or sirloin)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, sliced
1 bell pepper (green, red, or yellow), sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
8 ounces cooked pasta (like penne or rotini) or 4 cups diced potatoes
1 cup beef broth
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups shredded provolone cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, add the thinly sliced steak and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned, about 3-5 minutes. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the sliced onion and bell pepper, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 4: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta (or diced potatoes), sautéed vegetables, cooked steak, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix everything well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 5: Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread the mixture evenly and then top generously with the shredded provolone cheese, covering the entire surface.
Step 6: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and continue to bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly, melted, and golden brown.
Step 7: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This brief resting period helps the casserole set, making it easier to serve.
Notes
For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the vegetables. You can also mix in some sautéed mushrooms for an earthy depth of flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking, Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
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