Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

Philly Cheesesteak Casserole: A Flavorful Fusion of Comfort and Creativity

Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that pays homage to the iconic Philly Cheesesteak but with a creative twist – the Philly Cheesesteak Casserole. This recipe transforms the classic sandwich into a hearty, oven-baked delight, perfect for gatherings, weeknight dinners, or any occasion that calls for a comforting, flavorful meal. Join us as we explore the layers of taste, textures, and culinary satisfaction that this casserole brings to the table.

Ingredients

For the Casserole:

  • 2 lbs (900g) thinly sliced beef sirloin or ribeye
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 large onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 8 oz (225g) mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 8 slices provolone cheese
  • 1 cup (240ml) beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce

For the Topping:

  • 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
  • 4 large eggs
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

Preparing the Philly Cheesesteak Casserole:

  1. Sautéing the Beef:
    • In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Sauté the thinly sliced beef until browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
  2. Vegetable Medley:
    • In the same skillet, add sliced onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms. Sauté until the vegetables are tender. Season with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Layering the Casserole:
    • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a greased casserole dish, layer the cooked beef at the bottom, followed by the sautéed vegetable mixture. Top with slices of provolone cheese.
  4. Broth Infusion:
    • In a small bowl, mix beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce. Pour this mixture over the layers in the casserole dish.
  5. Bake to Perfection:
    • Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Adding the Topping:

  1. Creamy Custard Topping:
    • In a bowl, whisk together heavy cream, eggs, salt, and black pepper. After the initial bake, pour this custard mixture over the casserole.
  2. Return to the Oven:
    • Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the topping is set and golden brown.
  3. Let It Rest:
    • Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld and makes it easier to cut into delectable portions.

Cook Notes

  • Beef Slicing Tips:
    • For easy slicing, partially freeze the beef before cutting it into thin strips.
  • Melted Cheese Magic:
    • For an extra cheesy experience, mix different types of cheese such as cheddar or mozzarella with the provolone.
  • Casserole Versatility:
    • Customize the casserole by adding your favorite Philly Cheesesteak toppings like sautéed jalapeños or hot cherry peppers.

Variations

Philly Chicken Casserole:

  • Swap beef for thinly sliced chicken breast or thigh meat for a delicious twist on the classic.

Vegetarian Delight:

  • Create a vegetarian version by replacing the beef with portobello mushrooms and adding extra veggies like zucchini and cherry tomatoes.

Pizza Philly Fusion:

  • Transform the casserole into a Philly Cheesesteak Pizza by spreading pizza dough over the filling before baking.

Keto Versions

Cheese Crust Upgrade:

  • Create a keto-friendly cheese crust by melting and crisping provolone slices on a baking sheet. Place the casserole over this cheesy base for a low-carb delight.

Cauliflower Comfort:

  • Replace the custard topping with a creamy cauliflower mash for a keto-friendly alternative.

Almond Flour Binding:

  • Use almond flour in the custard mixture to add thickness while keeping the dish low-carb.

Low-Carb Versions

Zucchini Ribbon Layers:

  • Replace the pasta-like layers with thinly sliced zucchini or yellow squash for a low-carb, vegetable-rich alternative.

Broccoli Rice Base:

  • Create a base using broccoli rice instead of traditional grains for a nutritious, low-carb foundation.

Eggplant Slices:

  • Layer the casserole with thin slices of eggplant for a low-carb substitute that adds a unique texture.

A Casserole Celebration

In conclusion, the Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is a celebration of comfort and creativity, bringing the beloved flavors of the classic sandwich to new heights. Whether you choose the traditional route or opt for a keto or low-carb adaptation, this casserole promises a satisfying, mouthwatering experience.

With its layers of savory beef, sautéed vegetables, and gooey cheese, this dish is a testament to the joy of comfort food elevated to gourmet status. So, preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and prepare to savor a symphony of flavors in every bite of the Philly Cheesesteak Casserole.

May this recipe become a star in your culinary repertoire, offering warmth, flavor, and a delightful twist on a beloved classic. Here’s to the joy of cooking and the pleasure of sharing delicious meals with those you hold dear!