Philly Cheesesteak Casserole: A Delectable Twist on a Classic Favorite
Introduction
The Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that brings the bold flavors of the iconic Philadelphia sandwich into a rich and satisfying casserole format.
This dish combines tender slices of beef, sautéed vegetables, and gooey cheese in a single, shareable meal. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or a family gathering and offers a unique spin on the classic cheesesteak while retaining all its beloved flavors.
Origin and Cultural Significance
The original Philly cheesesteak was born in the early 20th century in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It started as a simple sandwich made with thinly sliced beef and grilled onions on a hoagie roll. Over time, it evolved with the addition of cheese—most commonly provolone, Cheez Whiz, or American cheese.
The Philly Cheesesteak Casserole adapts this classic into a casserole, showcasing the dish’s versatility while paying homage to its origins as a symbol of American comfort food.
Ingredients Quantity
For 6 servings:
- 1 pound ground beef or thinly sliced ribeye steak
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 medium green bell pepper, diced
- 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded provolone cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
Optional Additions
- Sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick
- Diced banana peppers for tanginess
- Crumbled bacon for added richness
- Toasted breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping
Tips for Success
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor, particularly the vegetables and cheese.
- Sauté the vegetables until soft to enhance their sweetness and ensure they integrate well with the casserole.
- Drain excess grease from the cooked beef or ribeye to prevent the casserole from becoming too oily.
- Preheat the oven to ensure even cooking.
- Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes after baking to make slicing and serving easier.
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
- Cook the meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or ribeye slices until browned. Drain any excess grease and set aside.
- Sauté the vegetables: In the same skillet, sauté the onion, bell peppers, mushrooms, and garlic until softened, about 5–7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Assemble the casserole: Spread the cooked beef evenly in the prepared baking dish. Layer the sautéed vegetables on top.
- Prepare the custard: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, and smoked paprika. Pour this mixture evenly over the meat and vegetables.
- Add cheese: Sprinkle mozzarella and provolone cheese evenly on top.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the custard is set.
- Serve and enjoy: Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Description
The Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is a flavorful, layered dish that combines the savory richness of seasoned beef with the sweet, caramelized flavor of sautéed onions and peppers.
The melted cheese creates a luscious, creamy topping, while the baked custard ties everything together, adding a comforting, quiche-like texture.
Nutritional Information
(Approximate per serving):
- Calories: 380
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fat: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 620mg
Conclusion
Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is a creative and crowd-pleasing dish that celebrates the flavors of the classic sandwich while offering the convenience of a casserole. It’s versatile, customizable, and easy to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.
Recommendation
Serve this casserole with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad to complete the meal. For a low-carb option, enjoy it on its own or pair it with cauliflower rice or roasted vegetables.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
This dish balances indulgence and healthfulness by focusing on whole ingredients, customizable portions, and creative pairings. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or make it your own, Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is a comforting meal that satisfies both body and soul.