Craving a hearty meal? Look no further than my Philly Cheesesteak Casserole! This easy dish packs all the classic flavors of a cheesesteak into a comforting casserole. You’ll love how simple it is to prepare and just how delicious it tastes. Plus, it’s perfect for busy nights or make-ahead meals. Ready to learn how to create this savory delight? Let’s dive into the tasty details!
Ingredients
Required Ingredients
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 green bell pepper, diced
– 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups cooked pasta (penne or rotini)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 2 cups provolone cheese, shredded
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
To make a great Philly cheesesteak casserole, start with ground beef. You can also use turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Next, fresh vegetables like onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms add flavor and texture.
Cooking staples are key in this dish. Provolone cheese gives that classic cheesesteak taste. Broth adds moisture while Worcestershire sauce brings a savory kick. Italian seasoning ties everything together.
Don’t forget the pasta! Cooked penne or rotini holds all the tasty bits. A little olive oil helps sauté the veggies and beef.
This recipe has all you need for a tasty meal. Check out the Full Recipe for detailed steps!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Overview
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is key for a perfect bake. While the oven heats, grab a 9×13 inch baking dish and grease it lightly. Next, in a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 pound of ground beef and cook until it’s browned, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to drain any excess fat to keep it healthy.
Now, let’s sauté the veggies. Add 1 small diced onion, 1 diced green bell pepper, and 1 cup of sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Cook these until they soften, which should take about 5 minutes. Stir in 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for one more minute to release those great flavors.
Assembly Process
Once your beef and veggies are ready, it’s time to mix. Stir in 2 cups of cooked pasta, 1 cup of beef broth, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Add salt and pepper to taste, mixing everything well. The mixture should be colorful and full of flavor.
Now, fold in 1 cup of shredded provolone cheese. This makes the dish creamy and delicious. Remove the skillet from the heat and pour your mixture into the greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly for even cooking.
Baking to Finish
Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of provolone cheese on top of your casserole. This will melt and create a nice cheesy crust. Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You will know it’s done when the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
After baking, take the casserole out and let it cool for a few minutes. This helps the flavors settle. If you want, you can garnish it with some chopped parsley for a fresh touch. Enjoy your meal! For the full recipe, check out the details above.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Casserole
Choosing the right cheese is key. Provolone cheese melts well and gives great flavor. You can also mix in some mozzarella for extra stretch. To avoid a dry casserole, make sure you use enough beef broth. This keeps everything moist and tasty. Adding the cheese while the mixture is hot helps it blend in better.
Cooking Techniques
When sautéing vegetables, cut them into small pieces. This helps them cook evenly. Start with the onion and bell pepper, then add mushrooms. Cook until they are soft. For ground beef, use a wide skillet. This allows the meat to brown nicely. Break it apart as it cooks to avoid clumps.
Serving Suggestions
For a great presentation, cut the casserole into squares. Serve each slice on a colorful plate. Sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for color. Pair it with a side of pickles for a crunchy texture. You can also serve it with a simple salad or some garlic bread to complete the meal. For the full recipe, check the link provided.
Variations
Ingredient Swaps
You can swap the ground beef for turkey or chicken. These changes keep the dish light. Both meats still bring great flavor. You might also try different cheeses. Cheddar or Swiss can add a new taste. This keeps your casserole fresh each time.
Making it Vegetarian
To make it vegetarian, you can use plant-based meat. Options like lentils or mushrooms work well. They add texture and flavor. You can also add more veggies, like spinach or zucchini. They boost the nutrition and taste of the dish.
Flavor Enhancements
Adjusting seasonings can give your casserole a unique twist. Try adding smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for heat. You can also use fresh herbs like parsley or basil to brighten the flavor. For toppings, consider crispy fried onions or diced tomatoes. They add extra crunch and taste.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Philly cheesesteak casserole fresh, store it in the fridge. Use an airtight container. It can stay good for about three to four days. If you want to keep it longer, freezing is a great option. Let the casserole cool completely before sealing it in a freezer-safe container. It can last up to three months in the freezer. Label the container with the date for easy tracking.
Reheating Instructions
When it’s time to enjoy leftovers, the best way to reheat is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish, cover it with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes. This keeps the texture nice and cheesy. If you’re short on time, you can use the microwave. Heat it in short bursts, checking often to avoid drying it out. Enjoy your tasty meal again!
You can find the full recipe for Philly cheesesteak casserole [here](#).
FAQs
What is Philly Cheesesteak Casserole?
Philly cheesesteak casserole is a hearty dish that combines classic flavors. It features ground beef, onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms, all mixed with pasta and cheese. The dish captures the essence of a traditional Philly cheesesteak but in a warm, comforting casserole form. The cheese melts beautifully over the top, adding richness and flavor.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this casserole ahead of time. To do this, follow the recipe but stop before baking. Once you mix in the cheese and transfer it to a baking dish, cover it well. Store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to heat it through.
Is it possible to make a gluten-free version?
Absolutely! You can easily make a gluten-free version of this casserole. Use gluten-free pasta, and check that your beef broth is gluten-free. Many brands offer gluten-free Worcestershire sauce as well. These swaps let you enjoy this dish without gluten.
How long does the casserole last in the fridge?
The casserole lasts about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Make sure to store it in an airtight container. Before eating, check for any off smells or mold. If it smells fine, reheat it to a safe temperature before serving.
This blog post laid out how to make a delicious Philly Cheesesteak casserole. I covered key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips. You learned variations to fit your taste, plus how to store and reheat leftovers properly.
Casseroles are simple, tasty meals for any occasion. Try this recipe, and don’t hesitate to tweak it your way! Enjoy sharing it with friends or family.
