Do you love the taste of a Philly Cheesesteak but need something easy for dinner? The Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is your answer. It’s a quick, family-friendly meal that combines tender beef, melted cheese, and sautéed veggies. It’s perfect for busy weeknights.
This casserole is ready in just 40 minutes. It’s a lifesaver for those who want a tasty meal without spending hours cooking. Plus, it’s low-carb, with only 7 net carbs per serving. This makes it great for many diets.
Key Takeaways
- Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is a quick and easy dinner idea inspired by the classic sandwich
- This family-friendly casserole combines tender beef, melted cheese, and sautéed veggies
- It’s perfect for busy weeknights and can be prepared in about 40 minutes
- The dish is low-carb, with only 7 net carbs per serving, making it suitable for various dietary needs
- The recipe has millions of views and many five-star reviews
A Delicious Twist on the Classic Philadelphia Sandwich
The Philly cheesesteak is a famous sandwich from Philadelphia. It has thinly sliced ribeye steak, melted cheese, and sautéed onions. These ingredients are placed in a soft, crusty hoagie roll. But, this Philly Cheesesteak Casserole turns these flavors into a big, family-friendly dish.
History of Philly Cheesesteak
The Philly cheesesteak started in the 1930s. Pat Olivieri, a hot dog vendor in South Philadelphia, grilled sliced beef on his cart. A taxi driver noticed the smell and asked for the same sandwich. So, the Philly cheesesteak was born, loved by locals and soon famous worldwide.
Why This Casserole Version Works
This casserole uses ground beef instead of thinly sliced steak. Ground beef is easier to find and cheaper for a big dish. It keeps the real flavors but is simpler to make.
The casserole is easy to put together, bake, and serve. It’s perfect for quick weeknight dinners or casual get-togethers. It brings the classic Philly cheesesteak to your table in a family-friendly way.
Essential Ingredients for Cheesesteak Casserole
To make a real Philly Cheesesteak Casserole, you need some key ingredients. Lean ground beef is at the center, giving it a savory taste. Provolone cheese, with its creamy texture and deep flavor, is the top layer that makes it taste like a classic cheesesteak.
Bell peppers in bright colors like green, red, and yellow add a nice crunch and sweetness. Onions and garlic boost the dish’s aroma and flavor. A bit of cream cheese helps everything stick together, making it creamy and fulfilling.
Adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce and spices like onion and garlic powder can make the flavor even better. Beef broth is used to cook the pasta, adding a savory touch.
By mixing these ingredients, you can make a Philly Cheesesteak Casserole that’s perfect for family meals or impressing friends.
Feel free to try different cheeses like mozzarella, cheddar, or pepper jack to find your favorite. The goal is to keep the classic taste while adding your own twist to this tasty dish.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
To make the tasty Philly Cheesesteak Casserole, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools. First, you’ll need a large oven-safe skillet or saucepan. This is for browning the beef and cooking the veggies. If your skillet can’t go in the oven, a casserole dish works great too.
Recommended Cookware
- Large oven-safe skillet or saucepan (at least 12 inches wide)
- 9×13 inch casserole dish (if not using an oven-safe skillet)
- Sharp chef’s knife for chopping vegetables
- Cutting board
- Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
- Measuring cups and spoons
Optional Tools for Easier Preparation
While not necessary, some extra kitchen tools can make things easier:
- Cheese grater for shredding the provolone cheese
- A glass measuring cup for saving pasta water. This helps the casserole stick together
- Pre-cut bell peppers and onions save time on chopping
With these tools, you’re ready to make a delicious Philly Cheesesteak Casserole at home.
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
Making the Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is easy and fun. It results in a tasty, comforting meal. Here’s how to do it:
- Begin by cooking the pasta in a mix of beef stock and water. This boosts the casserole’s flavor.
- Then, cook the ground beef in a big skillet over medium-high heat. Make sure to drain off any extra grease.
- Add the chopped green and red bell peppers, and the diced onion, to the beef. Cook until the veggies are soft and the onions are clear.
- Mix in the cream cheese and cooked pasta. This makes the filling creamy and smooth.
- Put the mix in a baking dish and cover it with provolone cheese slices.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. Bake the casserole for 8-10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
The whole process takes about 40 minutes. Cooking the pasta in beef stock and draining the meat mixture ensures a balanced taste and texture.
Follow these easy steps to make a tasty Philly Cheesesteak Casserole. Your family will love it. Enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Ground Beef Cooking
Selecting the Right Meat
Choosing the right ground beef is key for your Philly Cheesesteak Casserole. Go for 93% lean ground beef for the best flavor and less fat. This keeps your casserole tasty without being too greasy.
Proper Seasoning Techniques
Seasoning the ground beef is crucial for a great taste. Start with salt and pepper as it cooks. This lets the flavors mix well.
Adding garlic powder and onion powder can also enhance the taste. Make sure the beef is browned and no pink remains. Then, drain any extra fat before adding other ingredients. Seasoned ground beef is essential for a tasty casserole.
| Ground Beef Selection | Seasoning Recommendations |
|---|---|
| 93% Lean Ground Beef |
|
By choosing the right ground beef and seasoning it well, you’ll make a delicious Philly Cheesesteak Casserole. Your family will love it.
Cheese Selection and Melting Methods
Choosing the right cheese is key for a great Philly Cheesesteak Casserole. Provolone is the top pick, giving it that real Philly taste. Use both diced and sliced provolone for the best mix.
The diced cheese spreads out in the filling. Meanwhile, the sliced cheese on top melts into a creamy layer.
Adding cream cheese makes it even creamier. This mix of cheeses makes the dish stand out.
Want to try something different? Mozzarella, American, or cheddar can also work. Play with different cheeses to find your favorite.
To melt the cheese, broil the casserole for 2-3 minutes at the end. Watch it closely to avoid burning. This step makes the cheese on top golden and bubbly.
| Cheese Type | Quantity | Function |
|---|---|---|
| Provolone cheese | 6 ounces, diced and sliced | Provides the authentic Philly Cheesesteak flavor |
| Cream cheese | 8 ounces | Adds creaminess and richness to the casserole |
| Mozzarella, American, or Cheddar | As desired | Alternative cheese options for a different flavor profile |
For a perfect cheesy top, watch the casserole closely under the broiler. Take it out when the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Vegetable Preparation and Cooking
To make the perfect Philly Cheesesteak Casserole, you need to prep your veggies right. Start by chopping bell peppers and onions into small pieces. This makes sure they cook evenly and mix well with the ground beef.
Cutting Techniques
Use a sharp knife to cut the bell peppers and onions into small cubes. This improves the dish’s texture and ensures even cooking. If you’re short on time, you can use pre-cut veggies.
Sautéing Tips
After chopping, sauté the bell peppers and onions with the ground beef over medium-high heat. This step mixes the meat and veggie flavors together. Cook for 5-6 minutes, until the veggies are tender but still crisp.
Adding other vegetables like mushrooms or spinach can boost nutrition and taste. Just make sure they’re cooked but still firm. This way, they keep their colors and textures, enhancing the casserole.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Bell Peppers | 2 Green, 1 Orange, 1 Red |
| Onions | 2 Large, Yellow or White |
| Mushrooms | 8 oz, Sliced |
| Spinach | 2 Cups, Fresh |
“The key to a delicious Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is the perfect balance of tender, flavorful vegetables and juicy ground beef.”
Make-Ahead and Storage Options
The Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is great for meal prep and can be frozen. You can make it ahead and freeze it for up to 3 months. Just assemble it without baking, cover it well, and freeze.
When you’re ready, thaw it completely before baking. This way, you can enjoy it whenever you want.
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days. Put them in an airtight container and reheat in the microwave or oven. It’s perfect for easy lunches or dinners.
For individual portions, freeze the unbaked casserole in single-serve containers. This makes it easy to grab a meal whenever you need one. The Philly Cheesesteak Casserole becomes even more convenient for your family.
FAQ
What is Philly Cheesesteak Casserole?
Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is a quick dinner inspired by the Philly cheesesteak. It has tender beef, melted cheese, and sautéed veggies in a casserole.
What are the key ingredients in Philly Cheesesteak Casserole?
The main ingredients are lean ground beef, provolone cheese, and sautéed veggies. You also need bell peppers, onions, garlic, and cream cheese. Beef stock is used for cooking the pasta.
What equipment is needed to make Philly Cheesesteak Casserole?
You’ll need a large skillet or saucepan and a casserole dish. Basic kitchen tools are also required. Optional tools include a cheese grater and sharp knife for chopping.
How do you prepare Philly Cheesesteak Casserole?
First, cook pasta in beef stock. Then, brown the ground beef with veggies. Next, add cream cheese and cooked pasta. Top with provolone cheese and bake until melted and bubbly.
How do you ensure the ground beef is cooked properly?
Use 93% lean ground beef for flavor and less fat. Season with salt and pepper while cooking. Cook until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat before adding other ingredients.
What types of cheese work best in Philly Cheesesteak Casserole?
Provolone cheese is traditional for Philly Cheesesteak flavor. Use diced and sliced provolone for even melting. Cream cheese adds creaminess. Mozzarella, American, or cheddar can also be used.
How do you prepare the vegetables for the casserole?
Chop bell peppers and onions into small pieces for even cooking. Sauté them with the beef until tender, about 5-6 minutes. Pre-cut veggies can save time.
Can Philly Cheesesteak Casserole be made ahead and frozen?
Yes, it can be made ahead and frozen for up to 6 months. Assemble the casserole without baking, cover tightly, and freeze. Thaw before baking. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days.
