Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

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It’s always a joy to find a recipe that combines comfort food with convenience, and this Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is a perfect example. Perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy family gatherings, this dish channels all the savory, gooey goodness of a classic Philly cheesesteak into a delightful casserole. Each bite bursts with flavors from ground beef, bell peppers, and melted cheese, making it hard to resist. So why not indulge in a dish that’s not just satisfying but also relatively easy to whip up?

Why you’ll love this dish

Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is the epitome of comfort food. Not only does it replicate the beloved flavors of a traditional Philly cheesesteak, but it also simplifies the process. This is a budget-friendly dish that requires minimal prep and clean-up, making it perfect for busy weeknights. It’s hearty, filling, and loved by both kids and adults alike. Plus, it can easily feed a crowd, so it’s ideal for gatherings or potlucks.

“This casserole is a game-changer! It has all the flavors of my favorite cheesesteak, but my family devoured it in no time. I can’t wait to make it again!” – Sarah M.

Cooking process explained

Making this casserole is quite straightforward, which is another reason it’s a favorite. You’ll start by browning the ground beef with onions and green bell peppers in a skillet. Once the veggies are soft, you’ll mix in your macaroni and broth, allowing everything to simmer until perfectly cooked. The creamy blend of milks and cheeses then transforms it into the luxurious, cheesy dish we crave. Finally, a quick stint in the oven ensures a beautifully melted top layer. Let’s go through the ingredients needed for this delicious recipe!

What you’ll need

Gather these items before getting started:

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound ground beef
1 yellow onion, diced
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
1 green bell pepper, stem and seeds removed, diced
8 ounces elbow macaroni, uncooked
1 cup water
2 cups beef broth
½ cup whole milk
½ cup heavy cream
4 ounces cream cheese, cut into small cubes
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
6 ounces provolone cheese, sliced and torn into pieces
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

You can also consider substituting ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option or using gluten-free pasta to suit dietary needs.

Directions to follow

Philly Cheesesteak casserole deliciously layered in a baking dish

In a large 12-inch skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Add the ground beef and diced onion, browning them until the beef is no longer pink and the onions are translucent. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Next, stir in the Worcestershire sauce, green bell pepper, elbow macaroni, water, and beef broth.
Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. Make sure the pasta is fully cooked and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
With the skillet still on low heat, add the milk, heavy cream, and cream cheese. Stir until all the cream cheese is melted and well incorporated.
Remove from heat. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese and half of the provolone cheese into the mixture, stirring to combine.
Top with the remaining provolone cheese and a sprinkle of parsley.
Transfer the mixture to an oven-safe baking dish and bake for about 10 minutes or until the top is melted and slightly browned.

Best ways to enjoy it

This Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is a versatile dish that pairs well with several sides. Consider serving it with a fresh side salad for a refreshing contrast. Garlic bread or crusty rolls can also complement the rich flavors beautifully, allowing you to scoop up every last bite. For a more wholesome pairing, steamed vegetables or a hearty bowl of soup could round out the meal.

Keeping leftovers fresh

Storing your leftovers is simple! Let the casserole cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator, where it can last for up to four days. If you want to save it for a longer time, you can freeze portions. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in freezer-safe bags. For reheating, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Helpful cooking tips

For an extra flavor boost, try adding garlic or your favorite spices when browning the beef.
If you prefer a bit of spice, consider adding sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the mix.
To make the dish even creamier, increase the amounts of both the heavy cream and cream cheese.

Creative twists

Don’t hesitate to put your own spin on this dish! Swap out the ground beef for shredded chicken or smoked sausage for a unique twist. You could also try using different cheeses like gouda or cheddar for diverse flavor profiles. Want to make it vegetarian? Substitute ground beef with mushrooms or a plant-based crumbles.

Common questions

What’s the prep time?
The prep time for this casserole is about 15 minutes, and the cooking time is roughly 25-30 minutes.

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer, just adjust the cooking time based on the type you choose.

How can I make it lighter?
You can use lean ground beef, reduced-fat cream cheese, and skim milk to decrease the calorie content. Additionally, adding more veggies is always a good idea!

The Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is a delightful comfort food that anyone can make. Its rich flavors and creamy texture will leave you craving more, and it’s sure to become a staple in your home!