Philly Cheese Steak Casserole Recipe

This Philly Cheese Steak Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that captures the essence of the beloved classic sandwich in a casserole form. It’s packed with seasoned ground beef, vibrant bell peppers, savory onions, and melted Provolone cheese, all bound together by a creamy egg mixture. Ideal for dinner or meal prep, this casserole is not only delicious but also easy to make.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 ½ lb lean ground beef: Opt for lean beef to reduce the fat content while still getting great flavor and protein.
  • 2 bell peppers (any color), diced: Bell peppers add a sweet crunch and vibrant color to the dish.
  • ½ yellow onion, diced: Onions bring depth and sweetness when sautéed.
  • 1 clove garlic, minced: Fresh garlic enhances the overall flavor profile.
  • 1 tsp seasoned salt (like Lawry’s or Morton’s): This adds a blend of spices to elevate the taste.
  • 4 slices Provolone cheese: Creamy and melty, Provolone is perfect for this casserole.

Egg Mixture

  • 4 large eggs: Acts as a binder and adds protein.
  • ¼ cup heavy cream: Provides richness and creaminess.
  • 1 tsp hot sauce (optional): Adds a kick if you prefer a bit of heat.
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce: This deepens the flavor, adding umami notes.

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Preparation

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×9-inch baking dish by spraying it with non-stick cooking spray. This will help prevent the casserole from sticking and make for easier cleanup.

Step 2: Vegetable and Meat Preparation

Next, dice the bell peppers and onion into bite-sized pieces and mince the garlic. In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook it until browned and crumbled, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, drain any excess fat from the skillet to keep the dish lighter.

Step 3: Sautéing Vegetables

Add the diced bell peppers, onions, and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Sauté the mixture until the vegetables are tender, approximately 4-5 minutes. This step is crucial as it allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Stir in the seasoned salt, adjusting to taste as necessary.

Step 4: Assembling the Casserole

Transfer the cooked beef and vegetable mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Layer the slices of Provolone cheese on top of the beef mixture, ensuring it covers the surface adequately for that gooey texture we love.

Step 5: Preparing the Egg Mixture

In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, hot sauce, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth. This mixture will create a custard-like base that envelops the ingredients in the casserole.

Step 6: Baking the Casserole

Pour the egg mixture evenly over the beef and cheese in the baking dish. Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on it towards the end of the baking time to avoid overcooking.

Step 7: Serving

Once done, allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or some crusty bread, making for a complete meal. For best results, let it sit for about 5-10 minutes before cutting into it to ensure cleaner slices.

Nutrition Information

  • Servings: 4
  • Calories per serving: 400 kcal
  • Protein: Approximately 28g
  • Fat: Approximately 30g
  • Carbohydrates: Approximately 6g
  • Fiber: 1g

Weight Watchers Points

  • Total Points: 10 (adjust based on your specific WW plan)

Useful Tips and Variations

  1. Meat Substitutions: Feel free to swap the ground beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter version. You can also use plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian option.
  2. Cheese Alternatives: If Provolone isn’t your favorite, try using mozzarella or a mix of cheeses for a different flavor profile.
  3. Add Vegetables: Incorporate other vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for added nutrients and variety.
  4. Make Ahead: This casserole can be assembled a day in advance. Just cover it and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
  5. Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Conclusion

This Philly Cheese Steak Casserole is a fantastic way to enjoy the classic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak in an easy-to-make, comforting dish. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or as a meal prep option for the week ahead. With its blend of savory ingredients and gooey cheese, it’s sure to become a family favorite! Enjoy this delicious recipe, and don’t forget to share your results!