Prepare to indulge in a culinary masterpiece that brings all the flavors of the iconic Philly cheesesteak into a comforting casserole format. This Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is a symphony of savory beef, caramelized onions, and melted cheese, all baked to perfection in one glorious dish. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to create this gourmet delight in your own kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 pound ground beef
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 cup shredded provolone cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 6 oz sliced provolone cheese (for topping)
- Cooking spray, for greasing
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray and set it aside.
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onion and green bell pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are soft and caramelized, about 8-10 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Remove the cooked vegetables from the skillet and set them aside.
- Cook the Ground Beef:
- In the same skillet, add the ground beef. Cook over medium-high heat, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned and cooked through. Season with salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce to taste.
- Combine the Ingredients:
- Reduce the heat to low. Add the cooked vegetables back to the skillet with the ground beef.
- Stir in the softened cream cheese until fully incorporated.
- Gradually add beef broth to the skillet, stirring constantly, until the mixture is creamy and well combined.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in shredded provolone and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Transfer the beef and cheese mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Arrange sliced provolone cheese on top of the mixture to cover the entire surface.
- Bake the Casserole:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Slice into squares and serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cook’s Notes and Variations:
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to add additional vegetables to the casserole, such as mushrooms or thinly sliced bell peppers, to enhance the flavor and nutritional value.
- Switch Up the Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese to customize the flavor profile of the casserole. Swiss, cheddar, or even blue cheese can add a delicious twist.
- Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapenos for a spicy kick that will take this casserole to the next level.
- Low-Carb Option: Serve the Philly Cheesesteak Casserole over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a low-carb alternative to traditional pasta or bread.
FAQs:
Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef? A: Yes, ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef in this recipe. Just be mindful of adjusting the seasonings to suit your taste preferences.
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it, covered, until ready to bake. Simply remove it from the refrigerator and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes, leftover portions of the casserole can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake in a preheated oven until heated through.
Q: Is this recipe keto-friendly? A: Yes, this Philly Cheesesteak Casserole can be made keto-friendly by omitting the Worcestershire sauce (which typically contains sugar) or using a sugar-free alternative. Serve with low-carb sides such as cauliflower rice or salad to keep it keto-compliant.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
Keto Version:
- Omit Worcestershire sauce or use a sugar-free alternative.
- Serve with keto-friendly sides such as cauliflower rice or sautéed spinach.
Low-Carb Version:
- Serve over zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a low-carb option.
- Use full-fat cheese and cream cheese to keep the dish low-carb and satisfying.
In conclusion, Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is a decadent and satisfying dish that brings the flavors of the classic sandwich into a comforting casserole format. With its creamy cheese sauce, savory beef, and caramelized onions, it’s sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or simply craving a cozy meal at home, this casserole is guaranteed to please. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a taste of Philly right in your own kitchen!
