Indulge in the mouthwatering flavors of Philadelphia with this delectable Philly Cheesesteak Casserole! This hearty dish takes all the classic elements of a traditional Philly cheesesteak sandwich and transforms them into a delightful casserole that will leave you craving for more. With tender beef, sautéed onions and peppers, gooey melted cheese, and a savory bread topping, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that combines comfort food with a creative twist.
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Yield: 1 9×13-inch casserole dish
- Calories: Approximately 400 calories per serving
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds (900g) beef sirloin, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 bell peppers (any color), thinly sliced
- 8 ounces (225g) provolone cheese, shredded
- 4 ounces (115g) American cheese, sliced
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 loaf French bread, cut into cubes
- 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Equipment:
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowls
- 9×13-inch casserole dish
- Baking sheet
Step-by-Step Guide:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Add the sliced beef and cook until browned. Remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 2: In the same skillet, add the onions and bell peppers. Sauté until they are soft and lightly caramelized. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef, sautéed onions and peppers, provolone cheese, American cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
Step 4: Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
Step 5: In a separate bowl, toss the French bread cubes with melted butter until they are well coated. Arrange the buttered bread cubes over the beef mixture in the casserole dish.
Step 6: Place the casserole dish on a baking sheet to catch any potential spills. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread cubes are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 7: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley.
Tips and Tricks:
- For an extra kick of flavor, you can add thinly sliced mushrooms to the sautéed onions and peppers.
- If you prefer a spicier version, sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the beef mixture before baking.
- Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese to suit your taste preferences. Provolone and American cheese provide the classic flavors, but you can also try using shredded mozzarella, cheddar, or a blend of cheeses.
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: Approximately 400 calories per serving
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Protein: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
Final Thoughts:
Get ready to savor the iconic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak in a delightful casserole form. This Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is a comforting and satisfying dish that will impress your family and friends. With its tender beef, melty cheese, and hearty bread topping, it’s a recipe that combines the best of both worlds. Enjoy!
FAQ
Q1: Can I use a different type of meat in this Philly Cheesesteak Casserole recipe?
A1: While the traditional Philly cheesesteak is made with beef, you can certainly experiment with other meats such as chicken or even a vegetarian version using mushrooms or tofu. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q2: Can I make this Philly Cheesesteak Casserole in advance?
A2: Yes, you can assemble the Philly Cheesesteak Casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just remember to add the bread cubes right before baking to maintain their texture.
Q3: Can I freeze leftovers of the Philly Cheesesteak Casserole?
A3: Absolutely! Allow the Philly Cheesesteak Casserole to cool completely, then transfer individual portions or the entire casserole to freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven until heated through.
Q4: Can I substitute the bread cubes with a different type of topping in the Philly Cheesesteak Casserole?
A4: Certainly! If you’re looking for a gluten-free option or prefer a different texture, you can try using potato tots, shredded hash browns, or even panko breadcrumbs as an alternative topping for the Philly Cheesesteak Casserole.
Q5: Can I add additional vegetables to the Philly Cheesesteak Casserole?
A5: Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables such as sliced mushrooms, diced tomatoes, or even chopped spinach to the beef mixture in the Philly Cheesesteak Casserole for added flavor and nutrition.
Q6: Can I use pre-sliced cheese instead of shredding and slicing my own for the Philly Cheesesteak Casserole?
A6: Yes, you can use pre-sliced provolone and American cheese if you prefer for the Philly Cheesesteak Casserole. It can save time and effort while still providing the melty and creamy cheese goodness in the casserole.
Q7: Can I make the Philly Cheesesteak Casserole in a different size of baking dish?
A7: Definitely! If you prefer a thicker Philly Cheesesteak Casserole, you can use a smaller baking dish. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as a thicker casserole may require a bit longer in the oven.
Q8: Can I add condiments like ketchup or mayonnaise to the Philly Cheesesteak Casserole?
A8: While the Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is already packed with flavors, you can certainly serve it with condiments on the side if desired. Ketchup, mayonnaise, or even a drizzle of sriracha can complement the dish nicely.
Q9: Can I use a different type of bread instead of French bread in the Philly Cheesesteak Casserole?
A9: Yes, you can experiment with different types of bread such as Italian bread, ciabatta, or even a crusty baguette for the Philly Cheesesteak Casserole. Just make sure to adjust the bread quantity and baking time accordingly.
Q10: Can I make the Philly Cheesesteak Casserole spicy?
A10: Absolutely! If you enjoy a spicy kick, you can add some hot sauce or sprinkle red pepper flakes over the beef mixture in the Philly Cheesesteak Casserole before baking. Adjust the amount according to your taste preferences.
Q11: Can I omit the onions and peppers in the Philly Cheesesteak Casserole?
A11: While the onions and peppers contribute to the classic Philly cheesesteak flavors, you can omit them if you have dietary restrictions or personal preference. The Philly Cheesesteak Casserole will still be delicious with the beef and cheese as the main stars.
Q12: Can I use a different type of cheese in the Philly Cheesesteak Casserole?
A12: Certainly! While provolone and American cheese provide the classic flavors in the Philly Cheesesteak Casserole, you can experiment with different cheeses to suit your taste. Mozzarella, cheddar, or a blend of cheeses can all work well in this casserole.
Q13: Can I add Worcestershire sauce to the beef mixture in the Philly Cheesesteak Casserole?
A13: Absolutely! Worcestershire sauce can add a savory depth of flavor to the beef mixture in the Philly Cheesesteak Casserole. Add a tablespoon or two to enhance the taste.
Q14: Can I add fresh herbs to the PhillyCheesesteak Casserole?
A14: Yes, adding fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or oregano can elevate the flavors of the Philly Cheesesteak Casserole. Finely chop the herbs and sprinkle them over the casserole before baking, or garnish with them after it comes out of the oven.
Q15: Can I make a vegetarian version of the Philly Cheesesteak Casserole?
A15: Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version of the Philly Cheesesteak Casserole, you can substitute the beef with sliced mushrooms, tofu, or plant-based meat alternatives. Adjust the cooking time accordingly and add any additional vegetables or seasonings you prefer.Share
