Baked Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that captures the essence of the classic Philly cheesesteak sandwich but in a baked, casserole form. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, offering a hearty and flavorful meal that everyone will love. The combination of savory ground beef, tender bell peppers and onions, creamy egg mixture, and gooey provolone cheese makes this dish a winner.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb Ground beef
- 1 Green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 Yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Seasoned salt
- 8 slices Provolone cheese
- 3 Eggs
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup Heavy whipping cream
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the oven is hot and ready to bake the casserole once it is assembled.
- Chop Vegetables: Chop the green bell pepper and thinly slice the yellow onion. Mince the garlic cloves. Having all the vegetables prepared ahead of time makes the cooking process smoother and quicker.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until it is browned, breaking it up into small pieces with a spoon or spatula. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Browning the beef adds a depth of flavor to the dish.
- Add Vegetables: Once the beef is browned, add the chopped green bell pepper, thinly sliced onion, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender and the onions are translucent, about 5-7 minutes. The vegetables add texture and flavor to the casserole.
- Season: Sprinkle the seasoned salt over the beef and vegetable mixture. Stir to combine, ensuring that the seasoning is evenly distributed. Seasoning is crucial to bring out the flavors of the ingredients.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Mixture
- Mix Eggs and Cream: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, Worcestershire sauce, and heavy whipping cream until well combined. This creamy mixture will help to bind the casserole together and add richness.
- Combine with Beef: Pour the egg and cream mixture over the beef and vegetables in the skillet. Stir to combine thoroughly. Make sure that the mixture is evenly distributed so that each bite has a bit of everything.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
- Layer in Baking Dish: Transfer the beef and vegetable mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly to ensure that it bakes uniformly.
- Add Cheese: Layer the slices of provolone cheese over the top of the beef mixture, covering it completely. The provolone cheese will melt and create a deliciously gooey top layer.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. Baking the casserole allows the flavors to meld together and the cheese to form a beautiful, golden crust.
- Cool Slightly: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps to set the casserole, making it easier to cut and serve.
Tips for Success
- Ground Beef: For a leaner option, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef. This can also reduce the fat content of the dish.
- Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, red bell peppers, or even spinach to the mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
- Cheese: While provolone is the traditional cheese for a Philly cheesesteak, you can substitute it with mozzarella, cheddar, or any other melting cheese you prefer.
- Seasoning: Adjust the amount of seasoned salt and Worcestershire sauce to taste. You can also add a bit of hot sauce for a spicy kick if desired.
- Serving: This casserole pairs well with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.
Baked Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is a fantastic and easy way to enjoy the classic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak in a comforting, baked dish. The combination of savory ground beef, tender vegetables, creamy egg mixture, and melted provolone cheese makes for a hearty and satisfying meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy this delicious twist on a classic sandwich, and don’t forget to share the recipe with friends and family!
