Oh boy, am I excited to share this one with you! My Philly Cheese Steak Casserole has quickly become a favorite in my household, and I bet it will become one in yours too. Whenever I make this dish, it brings back memories of family gatherings where everyone dug in, barely able to hold back their enthusiasm for seconds! It’s like turning an iconic sandwich into a hearty casserole that warms you from the inside. Seriously, who can resist that melty cheese and savory beef?
This dish is perfect for those busy weeknights when I want comfort food without too much fuss. Plus, I can customize it easily! Whether it’s adding some heat with jalapeños or swapping out the type of cheese based on what’s in my fridge, the possibilities are endless.
What’s in Philly Cheese Steak Casserole?
Let’s break down the ingredients so you know exactly what you’re working with!
Ground Beef: The star of the show! I usually opt for lean ground beef, but feel free to use your favorite ground meat. If you’re a turkey or chicken lover, they work well too!
Onion: A medium onion, diced finely adds sweetness and depth. I adore the aroma that fills the kitchen while it sautés—nothing like it!
Green Bell Pepper: It provides not only color but also that crunch and slight bitterness that balances the dish perfectly. You can swap it for red or yellow pepper if you prefer a sweeter taste.
Mushrooms: I use 8 ounces of sliced mushrooms; they’re earthy and add a nice texture. Plus, they soak up all the wonderful flavors from the beef and spices!
Garlic Powder: A teaspoon of garlic powder gives a mellow garlic flavor without overwhelming the dish. You could certainly use minced garlic if you’re feeling extra adventurous!
Salt & Black Pepper: Just enough to season the filling and enhance all the flavors—simple and necessary!
Cooked Pasta: About 4 cups. I love using penne or rotini for this casserole; they hold the sauce beautifully, but any pasta will do!
Provolone & Mozzarella Cheese: The cheese blend is heavenly! I use 2 cups of provolone and 1 cup of mozzarella, which gives it that authentic Philly cheese flavor.
Beef Broth: One cup to keep everything moist and add depth. You can use low-sodium for a healthier option.
Olive Oil: Just a tablespoon helps to sauté the veggies to perfection.
Optional Ingredients: If you like a kick, sliced jalapeños or pepperoncini can be tossed on top—why not turn up the heat?
Is Philly Cheese Steak Casserole Good for You?
Let’s get into the health perks of this casserole!
Ground Beef: Packed with protein, iron, and essential vitamins. Just keep an eye on the fat content; leaner cuts are always a good choice!
Mushrooms: These little guys are nutritional powerhouses! They provide vitamins D and B, antioxidants, and can even help boost your immune system.
Pasta: While typically a carb-heavy ingredient, using whole grain or chickpea pasta can increase fiber content and keep you fuller for longer.
So yes, while this casserole is certainly hearty and rich, it can be a part of a balanced meal plan when enjoyed in moderation. Just remember to pile on your favorite veggies on the side!
Ingredients List
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 1 green bell pepper, diced
– 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 cups cooked pasta (such as penne or rotini)
– 2 cups shredded provolone cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Optional: sliced jalapeños or pepperoncini for extra heat
This recipe serves about 6 hungry folks—perfect for a family dinner!
How to Make Philly Cheese Steak Casserole?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and green bell peppers. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Toss in the sliced mushrooms and continue to cook until they release their moisture and soften, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the ground beef to the skillet—break it up using a spoon, and cook until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if necessary.
5. Stir in the garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
6. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, beef and vegetable mixture, and the beef broth. Give it a good mix until everything is well combined.
7. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
8. Top the casserole evenly with the shredded provolone and mozzarella cheeses.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
10. Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving, and if you like, garnish with sliced jalapeños or pepperoncini for that extra zing.
Garnishing Goodness
Here are some ideas to elevate your casserole experience:
– Serve it with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad to lighten things up.
– Feel free to switch the cheeses; a blend of cheddar and Swiss would be delightful!
– If you’re entertaining, this dish can be made ahead of time—just assemble it, refrigerate, and pop it in the oven when you’re ready.
I hope you feel inspired to try out this delicious Philly Cheese Steak Casserole! Seriously, once you take that first bite, you’ll understand why it’s a crowd-pleaser. Don’t forget to let me know how it turns out for you. Happy cooking!
