Philly Cheesesteak Casserole Recipe
Have you ever wondered how to bring the iconic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak into a cozy, shareable dish? This Philly Cheesesteak Casserole might just be the answer you're looking for. Imagine tender ribeye steak, sautéed onions, and colorful bell peppers, all bathed in a creamy cheese sauce. It's not just a meal; it's an experience that captures the essence of Philadelphia's beloved sandwich in a comforting bake. But how do you transform these classic ingredients into a bubbling, golden casserole? Let's explore the steps that turn this idea into a delicious reality.
Recipe
Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is an innovative way to enjoy the classic flavors of a cheesesteak sandwich in a comforting baked dish. The casserole combines tender slices of ribeye steak with vibrant bell peppers and onions, all enveloped in a creamy cheese sauce. This savory dish is perfect for feeding a crowd or serving as a hearty family meal, capturing the essence of Philadelphia's beloved sandwich without the need for a griddle or hoagie roll.
The rich, gooey cheese melds beautifully with the savory beef and sautéed vegetables, offering a delightful twist on a traditional favorite.
To prepare this delicious casserole, start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then brown thinly sliced ribeye steak. Remove the steak and set it aside. In the same skillet, sauté the onions, green and red bell peppers, and garlic until the vegetables are tender, seasoning with salt and pepper.
Stir in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, allowing the mixture to simmer briefly before mixing in softened cream cheese until smooth. Combine the cooked pasta, steak, and vegetable mixture in a large baking dish, then top with shredded provolone and mozzarella cheese. Bake until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound of ribeye steak, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup of beef broth
- 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce
- 8 ounces of cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups of shredded provolone cheese
- 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 cups of cooked pasta (such as penne or rotini)
To cook the Philly Cheesesteak Casserole, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat and brown the thinly sliced ribeye steak, then remove it and set it aside.
In the same skillet, sauté the onions, green and red bell peppers, and garlic until they're tender, seasoning with salt and pepper. Stir in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, allowing the mixture to simmer for a few minutes before mixing in the cream cheese until smooth.
In a large baking dish, combine the cooked pasta, steak, and vegetable mixture. Top with shredded provolone and mozzarella cheese, then bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
For best results, slice the steak as thinly as possible to guarantee even cooking and tenderness. Partially freezing the steak before slicing can make this task easier.
Feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations to suit your taste or add ingredients like mushrooms for an extra layer of flavor. This casserole can be prepared in advance and refrigerated until ready to bake, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.
Cooking Steps
Let's get cooking! Start by preheating your oven to a toasty 350°F, because this casserole is destined for greatness.
While the oven warms up, brown your steak in a skillet until it's perfectly browned, then sauté those bell peppers and onions until they're tender and ready to party.
Mix some cream cheese into the vegetable mix for that creamy goodness, and finally, combine everything in a baking dish for a flavor-packed journey you won't forget.
Step 1. Preheat Oven to 350°F
To get started with your Philly Cheesesteak Casserole, first set your oven to 350°F (175°C), guaranteeing it's preheating while you prepare the other ingredients. Trust me, you'll thank yourself later for not having to wait for the oven to heat up! A well-preheated oven guarantees your casserole cooks evenly, creating that delightful cheesy top layer we all adore.
While your oven warms up, gather and organize your ingredients. This is your moment to channel your inner chef! Double-check your pantry for those key items like provolone cheese and Worcestershire sauce.
And remember, a preheated oven is like a reliable friend—it's always ready when you need it. So, let it do the heavy lifting, while you focus on the fun part: cooking!
Step 2. Brown Steak in Skillet
With your oven preheated, it's time to focus on the steak.
Grab your skillet and heat two tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil's shimmering like a disco ball, add the thinly sliced ribeye steak.
Spread it out evenly, giving each piece a chance to shine. Let it sizzle away, browning beautifully on each side. Remember, you're not looking for "burnt to a crisp"—just a nice, even browning.
Stir occasionally, but let it sit long enough to develop that lovely caramelized crust.
Once the steak's browned and looking like it belongs on a magazine cover, remove it from the skillet and set it aside.
The aroma will make your kitchen smell like a cozy steakhouse.
Step 3. Sauté Vegetables Until Tender
Grab your skillet, keeping it hot and ready from the steak, and toss in the sliced onion, green bell pepper, red bell pepper, and minced garlic.
Listen to the sizzle as the veggies hit the pan—it's like a little kitchen symphony! Stir them around for a few minutes, letting them mingle and soften. You want the onions to get translucent and the peppers to become vibrant and tender.
Keep an eye on them, giving an occasional stir to prevent sticking. Feel free to add a pinch of salt and pepper for a flavor boost.
Don't rush this step; patience is key to achieving that perfect tender texture. Your sautéed veggies are ready when they smell irresistible and look just right!
Step 4. Mix in Cream Cheese
Now that your vegetables are perfectly tender, it's time to add the cream cheese for a creamy twist. Grab your softened cream cheese and drop it into the skillet, watching it melt into the savory concoction like magic.
Use a spatula to mix it in thoroughly, ensuring every piece of onion and pepper is coated with that luscious creaminess. It might look a bit like a science experiment at first, but trust me, it's worth it!
As you stir, the cream cheese will blend seamlessly, creating a rich, velvety sauce that'll make your casserole irresistible.
Don't be afraid to give it a taste and adjust the salt and pepper if needed. Remember, happy taste buds make for happy bellies!
Step 5. Combine Ingredients in Dish
You're ready to bring everything together for a delicious casserole. First, grab your large baking dish, making sure it's roomy enough for all those yummy layers.
Spread your cooked pasta evenly across the bottom, like a cozy bed for the rest of the ingredients. Next, add your browned steak, spreading it out so every bite is beefy goodness.
Then, pour the creamy, cheesy vegetable mixture over the top, letting it seep into the pasta crevices. Think of it as giving your casserole a warm, cheesy hug.
Finally, sprinkle the shredded provolone and mozzarella cheese generously over everything. You want a melty, golden blanket of cheese on top.
As you slide it into the oven, imagine the applause from your future dinner guests!
Final Thoughts
This casserole's versatility and ease of preparation make it a must-try for anyone looking to enjoy the flavors of a Philly cheesesteak with minimal effort.
You'll love how the creamy cheese, savory beef, and tender veggies come together, creating a dish that's both satisfying and nostalgic. Plus, it's a great way to use up leftover pasta!
Don't be afraid to tweak the recipe to suit your taste; maybe toss in some mushrooms or swap in pepper jack for a spicy kick.
Preparing it ahead of time is a lifesaver, especially on hectic days. Just pop it in the oven when you're ready.
So, gather your ingredients, put on some music, and enjoy the process—cooking should be fun, after all!
[DIRECTIONS]:
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Substitute the Ribeye Steak With Another Type of Meat?
You can substitute ribeye steak with other meats like chicken, ground beef, or turkey. Just make certain the meat is thinly sliced or cooked thoroughly. Each alternative offers a unique flavor while maintaining the dish's deliciousness and heartiness.
How Can I Make This Casserole Spicy?
Add some heat by incorporating sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes into the vegetable mixture. You can also use spicy cheese varieties, like pepper jack, for an extra kick. Adjust the amount to match your spice preference.
Is It Possible to Freeze the Casserole for Later Use?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole for later use. Just assemble it without baking, cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and freeze. When ready, thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
What Side Dishes Pair Well With Philly Cheesesteak Casserole?
You can pair it with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a light contrast. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette complements the cheesy richness perfectly. Don't forget a tangy coleslaw for a revitalizing crunch!
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta for This Recipe?
Yes, you can definitely use gluten-free pasta for this recipe. Just make certain it's cooked al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy. The casserole will still be delicious, capturing all the classic flavors you love.
Conclusion
And there you have it, your very own Philly Cheesesteak Casserole! It's a dish that's sure to impress family and friends, combining all those classic flavors we love in one easy bake. Remember, don't stress if it gets a bit messy—it's all part of the fun. Enjoy the cheesy, savory goodness with a side of laughter and maybe a bit of napkin juggling. So grab a fork, dig in, and savor every delicious bite!
