Philly Cheese Steak Casserole

Culinary Extravaganza: Crafting the Ultimate Philly Cheese Steak Casserole

Embark on a culinary adventure with the delectable Philly Cheese Steak Casserole, a twist on the iconic sandwich that captures all the flavors of Philadelphia in a comforting, baked dish. This casserole transforms the classic ingredients of thinly sliced steak, sautéed onions, and gooey cheese into a delightful one-pan wonder. Join us as we explore the ingredients, reveal detailed step-by-step instructions, share essential cook notes for achieving perfection, present tempting variations to suit diverse tastes, and unveil keto and low-carb adaptations for those craving a guilt-free slice of culinary heaven. Get ready to bring the flavors of the city of brotherly love to your kitchen and savor the richness of Philly Cheese Steak Casserole.

Ingredients:

For the Philly Cheese Steak Casserole:

  • 1.5 lbs thinly sliced sirloin steak
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 large green bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 8 oz cremini or white mushrooms, sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 8 slices provolone cheese

For the Creamy Cheese Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Step 1: Preparing the Philly Cheese Steak Casserole Base

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, sauté the thinly sliced sirloin steak in olive oil until browned. Season with salt and pepper. Transfer the steak to the prepared baking dish.
  3. In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed and sauté the sliced onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms until softened. Add minced garlic in the last minute of cooking. Season with salt and pepper.
  4. Layer the sautéed vegetables over the steak in the baking dish.

Step 2: Crafting the Creamy Cheese Sauce

  1. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour to create a roux.
  2. Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring a smooth mixture. Cook until the sauce thickens.
  3. Reduce heat and add shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Assembling and Baking the Casserole

  1. Pour the creamy cheese sauce over the steak and vegetables in the baking dish.
  2. Lay slices of provolone cheese evenly over the top.
  3. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is bubbling, and the cheese is golden brown.
  4. Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving.

Step 4: Serving and Savoring

  1. Slice the Philly Cheese Steak Casserole into portions and serve hot.
  2. Enjoy the harmonious blend of savory steak, tender vegetables, and creamy cheese sauce.

Cook Notes and Variations:

  • Spice Infusion: Add a touch of heat with red pepper flakes or jalapeños for a spicy kick.
  • Garlic Lovers’ Delight: Increase the minced garlic for an extra punch of garlic flavor.
  • Herbaceous Touch: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or thyme over the casserole before serving for a burst of freshness.

Optional Add-Ins:

  • Pickled Jalapeños: Add a layer of pickled jalapeños for a tangy and spicy twist.
  • Caramelized Onions: Enhance the sweetness by incorporating caramelized onions.
  • Sautéed Mushrooms: Experiment with different mushroom varieties or add a mix for a more complex flavor profile.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

Keto Version:

  • Almond Flour Roux: Substitute almond flour for all-purpose flour in the cheese sauce.
  • Heavy Cream Base: Replace whole milk with heavy cream in the cheese sauce for a lower-carb alternative.
  • Reduced Onions: Decrease the quantity of onions to lower the carb content.

Low-Carb Version:

  • Vegetable Variation: Swap out bell peppers for lower-carb alternatives like zucchini or cherry tomatoes.
  • Cauliflower Topping: Replace the provolone cheese with a cauliflower-based crust for a low-carb alternative.
  • Mozzarella Magic: Opt for mozzarella cheese instead of cheddar for a lower-carb cheese option.

In conclusion, the Philly Cheese Steak Casserole is a celebration of flavors that brings the essence of Philadelphia to your table. Whether you follow the classic recipe, explore tempting variations, or opt for keto and low-carb adaptations, each bite is a journey through the savory streets of the city of brotherly love.

Share this culinary masterpiece with family and friends, serve it at gatherings, or enjoy it as a hearty meal on a cozy night. The Philly Cheese Steak Casserole is a testament to the joy of blending iconic flavors into a comforting and satisfying dish. So, preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and let the aroma of this indulgent casserole fill your kitchen with the essence of Philadelphia.