Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

My Philly cheesesteak casserole recipe features shaved steak, caramelized peppers and onions, and heaps of melty cheese. It’s everything you love about the sandwich, just in a cozy casserole! Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this dish brings comfort and flavor to the table. With its rich, cheesy goodness and savory steak, it’s sure to impress your guests and leave them asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This casserole comes together quickly, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of sirloin steak, cream cheese, and melted cheeses creates a deliciously creamy and savory dish.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course or pair it with a side salad for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its comforting flavors and hearty ingredients, this casserole is perfect for feeding a hungry crowd.
• Leftover Friendly: Enjoy the leftovers the next day; it reheats well without losing flavor.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here are some must-have items to prepare your Philly cheesesteak casserole.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-stick pan or skillet
• 9 x 13-inch baking dish
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Mixing spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick pan or skillet: Ensures that the steak cooks evenly without sticking, making cleanup easier.
• 9 x 13-inch baking dish: Perfect size for holding all the ingredients while ensuring even cooking in the oven.
• Sharp knife: Aids in slicing vegetables and steak quickly and safely for uniform cooking.
• Mixing spoon: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.

Ingredients

For the Casserole

• 1 tablespoon butter
• 2 pounds sirloin steak (sliced)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 2 large bell peppers (sliced)
• 1 large onion (chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)

Cheesy Goodness

• 1/2 cup cream cheese
• 1/4 cup + 2 tablespoons half-and-half (or cream)
• 1 cup cheddar cheese (divided)
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese (divided)

How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 180C/350F. This ensures that your casserole bakes evenly once it’s ready to go in.

Step 2: Cook the Steak

In a non-stick pan or skillet:
1. Add the butter over medium heat.
2. Once hot, add the sliced sirloin steak.
3. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Cook until no longer pink, then remove from skillet.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

In the same skillet:
1. Add sliced bell peppers, chopped onion, and minced garlic.
2. Cook for about 4-5 minutes until softened.
3. Mix in the cream cheese and half-and-half; stir until combined.
4. Bring everything to a simmer for an additional 5 minutes.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked steak back into the pan along with half of both cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Mix everything well so that each ingredient is coated in creamy goodness.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

Transfer the cheesesteak mixture into a greased 9 x 13-inch baking dish:
1. Sprinkle with remaining shredded cheeses on top.
2. Bake in preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until cheese is bubbling and golden.

Enjoy your delightful Philly cheesesteak casserole! It’s sure to be a hit at any meal!

How to Serve Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

Serving Philly cheesesteak casserole is a delightful experience that brings the classic flavors of the beloved sandwich to your table in a cozy, comforting way. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

Pair with Fresh Salad

• A crisp garden salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers complements the richness of the casserole and adds a refreshing crunch.

Serve with Garlic Bread

• Warm, buttery garlic bread serves as a perfect side for scooping up the cheesy goodness from the casserole dish.

Add Pickles on the Side

• Tangy pickles provide a nice contrast to the creamy cheese and savory steak, adding a burst of flavor to each bite.

Offer Extra Cheese Sauce

• Drizzling extra cheese sauce over individual servings can elevate this dish for true cheese lovers who crave more gooey goodness.

Accompany with Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted seasonal vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots add color and nutrition to your plate, balancing out the richness of the casserole.

How to Perfect Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

To make your Philly cheesesteak casserole even better, follow these helpful tips. They will ensure you achieve maximum flavor and texture!

• Choose Quality Steak: Using fresh sirloin steak enhances the flavor and tenderness of your casserole, making each bite juicy and satisfying.

• Don’t Rush Caramelization: Allowing onions and peppers to caramelize properly brings out their natural sweetness, adding depth to your dish.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bringing cream cheese and half-and-half to room temperature before mixing helps them blend smoothly into the sauce.

• Experiment with Cheeses: While cheddar and mozzarella are traditional choices, try adding provolone or pepper jack for an extra kick.

• Let It Rest Before Serving: Allowing the casserole to rest for about 10 minutes after baking lets it set up nicely and makes serving easier.

Best Side Dishes for Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

Pairing side dishes with your Philly cheesesteak casserole can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent side options that go well with this dish:

1. Coleslaw
   A refreshing coleslaw adds crunch and acidity that cuts through the richness of the casserole.

2. Sweet Potato Fries
   Crispy sweet potato fries bring a hint of sweetness that complements the savory flavors of your casserole perfectly.

3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
   These caramelized sprouts provide a nutty flavor that pairs well with the cheesy steak filling.

4. Corn on the Cob
   Grilled or boiled corn on the cob gives a sweet touch that balances well with meaty dishes like this casserole.

5. Mashed Potatoes
   Creamy mashed potatoes create a comforting side that works wonderfully alongside a rich main course like cheesesteak casserole.

6. Baked Beans
   Sweet and savory baked beans add depth to your meal, making it hearty and filling while complementing the flavors of beef and cheese.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Philly cheesesteak casserole, it’s easy to overlook some key details that can affect the final dish.

• Bold seasoning: Failing to season your steak properly can lead to a bland casserole. Always add salt and pepper while cooking the meat for better flavor.
• Bold overcooking vegetables: Cooking the peppers and onions too long can make them mushy. Sauté them just until they soften for a nice texture.
• Bold using cold ingredients: Adding cold cream cheese or half-and-half directly from the fridge can cause clumping. Allow these ingredients to come to room temperature before mixing.
• Bold skimping on cheese: Cheese is essential for that gooey, melty texture. Use enough cheddar and mozzarella for optimal cheesiness!
• Bold neglecting baking time: Underbaking your casserole can result in a watery dish while overbaking can dry it out. Keep an eye on it until the cheese is bubbling and golden.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for best quality.

Freezing Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

• Freeze cooled portions in freezer-safe containers.
• Can be kept frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

• Bold oven: Preheat your oven to 180C/350F, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Bold microwave: Place a single portion on a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Bold stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about this Philly cheesesteak casserole recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries:

What is Philly Cheesesteak Casserole?

This dish is a baked version of the classic Philly cheesesteak sandwich, featuring tender steak, caramelized peppers and onions, and lots of melted cheese.

Can I use ground beef instead of sirloin steak?

Yes! Ground beef can be used as an alternative for sirloin steak in this Philly cheesesteak casserole recipe. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

How do I customize my Philly Cheesesteak Casserole?

You can add different vegetables like mushrooms or swap out cheeses based on your preference. Experiment with different spices for added flavor!

How long does Philly Cheesesteak Casserole last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, it lasts up to 3 days. If frozen, enjoy within 3 months for best taste.

Final Thoughts

This Philly cheesesteak casserole is a comforting dish that brings all the flavors of the classic sandwich into one cozy meal. It’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep! Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or cheeses for an even more personalized touch.