Welcome to a comforting twist on a beloved classic! This Philly Cheesesteak Casserole takes all the savory, cheesy goodness of a traditional Philly cheesesteak and transforms it into an incredibly easy, family-friendly dinner. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, bringing authentic flavors right to your table without the fuss. Prepare for rave reviews and a dish that might just go viral in your home!
The Philly cheesesteak, a culinary icon of Philadelphia, can trace its origins back to the 1930s as a humble hot dog cart creation.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Philly Cheesesteak Casserole
This delightful Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is more than just a meal; it’s a memory in the making.
- Quick & Easy: Enjoy a delicious dinner from start to finish in just about 40 minutes.
- Simple Ingredients: You’ll find everything you need at your local grocery store.
- Authentic Flavors: It captures that signature savory, cheesy profile everyone craves.
- One-Pan Friendly: Cook and bake in the same oven-safe skillet for minimal cleanup.
- Ultimate Comfort: This hearty dish is satisfying and wonderfully warm.
- Family Favorite: Even picky eaters will ask for seconds of this cheesy bake.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to create your comforting Philly Cheesesteak Casserole. Each component plays a vital role in building that classic flavor we all adore.
- 1/2 pound small shells
- 32 ounces beef stock + 32 ounces water
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 pound ground beef
- 8 ounces cream cheese
- 1 green pepper, diced
- 1/2 yellow onion, diced
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- 6 slices provolone cheese
Notes & Substitutions
- Pasta: Small shells are wonderful for catching sauce, but feel free to swap them with penne, elbow macaroni, or wide egg noodles for a different texture.
- Beef: While ground beef makes this casserole incredibly easy, you can use thinly sliced ribeye or sirloin steak for a more traditional cheesesteak feel.
- Cheeses: Provolone and mozzarella offer classic melt, but try a blend of white cheddar for sharpness, or even a drizzle of cheese whiz for an authentic Philadelphia touch.
- Vegetables: Onions and green peppers are standard, but adding sliced mushrooms or other colored bell peppers brings extra depth and nutrition to your savory dish.
- Beef Stock: Using beef stock rather than just water for cooking the pasta infuses a richer, deeper flavor throughout the entire casserole. Bouillon paste or cubes diluted in water also work.
- Seasoning: A good sprinkle of salt and freshly ground black pepper is essential. Consider a dash of garlic powder or onion powder for an extra flavor boost.
Equipment
You don’t need fancy tools to make this delightful Philly Cheesesteak Casserole.
- Large oven-safe skillet (cast iron or similar) or 9×13 inch baking dish
- Large pot for cooking pasta
- Cutting board and sharp knife
- Colander
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
How To Make Philly Cheesesteak Casserole
Creating this cozy Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is a straightforward journey. Follow these steps for a perfect, flavorful result that everyone will adore.
Step 1: Preheat and Pasta Prep. First, preheat your oven to a welcoming 350°F (175°C). Next, grab a large pot and combine the 32 ounces of beef stock with an equal amount of water. Bring this liquid to a rolling boil. Add your small shells and cook them according to the package directions until they are al dente, which means they are tender but still have a slight bite. This is crucial for preventing mushy pasta in your finished dish. Before draining, make sure to reserve 1/2 cup of that starchy pasta water. It’s a secret ingredient for creaminess!
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics. In your oven-safe skillet (or a large non-stick skillet if transferring to a baking dish later), melt the butter over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the minced garlic and cook for just about thirty seconds until fragrant. Immediately follow with the diced green pepper and yellow onion. Sauté these vegetables for approximately 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become tender and slightly softened. This step builds the foundational aromatic flavor for your Philly Cheesesteak Casserole.
Step 3: Cook the Ground Beef. Now, add the ground beef to the skillet with the softened vegetables. Break it apart with your spatula. Season generously with a pinch of salt and a grind of fresh black pepper. Continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the ground beef is completely browned and no pink remains.
Step 4: Drain and Add Cream Cheese. Once the beef is fully cooked, it’s important to drain any excess grease thoroughly from the skillet. This prevents the casserole from becoming oily. Return the skillet to the heat, then stir in the entire 8 ounces of cream cheese. Continue stirring until the cream cheese is fully melted and beautifully incorporated, creating a rich, creamy base for your savory dish.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Mozzarella. Now it’s time to bring everything together. Add the reserved 1/2 cup of starchy pasta water to the skillet. Then, gently stir in your cooked and drained small shells. Fold in the shredded mozzarella cheese until it’s evenly distributed throughout the beef and pasta mixture. Ensure all ingredients are well combined.
Step 6: Top with Provolone. Evenly spread the mixture in the skillet or transfer it to your prepared 9×13 inch baking dish. Arrange the 6 slices of provolone cheese neatly over the top of the casserole mixture. This layer will melt into a golden, bubbly crust.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection. Place the skillet or baking dish into your preheated oven. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the provolone cheese on top is completely melted, golden, and bubbly around the edges. The casserole should be heated through and irresistibly gooey.
Step 8: Rest and Serve. Once baked, carefully remove the Philly Cheesesteak Casserole from the oven. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This brief resting period allows the cheese to set slightly and the flavors to meld beautifully, making it easier to serve. Enjoy your homemade comfort food!
Pro Tips for the Best Philly Cheesesteak Casserole
Creating a truly memorable Philly Cheesesteak Casserole comes down to a few thoughtful details.
- Deepen Flavor: Always cook your pasta in beef stock instead of plain water. This infuses a rich, savory base into every single noodle.
- Creamy Texture: Don’t skip reserving that starchy pasta water! It helps create a silky, creamy sauce when mixed with the cream cheese.
- Browning Meat: Ensure you get a good sear on your ground beef before adding other ingredients. This develops deep, caramelized flavors.
- Perfect Melt: Layering the provolone on top creates an ultimate gooey, bubbly cheese crust that’s quintessential for any cheesesteak dish.
- Don’t Overcook: Cook pasta to al dente to avoid a mushy texture in the finished casserole.
Troubleshooting
- Casserole too dry: If your Philly Cheesesteak Casserole seems a bit dry, simply stir in an extra splash of the reserved pasta water or a bit of milk until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Pasta too mushy: Ensure you cook your pasta only until al dente initially. Next time, slightly reduce the pasta’s boiling time, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Lackluster flavor: Boost the taste by adding a dash of Worcestershire sauce, a pinch of smoked paprika, or a bit more salt and pepper to the beef mixture before baking.
Serving Suggestions & Variations
This Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is a meal in itself, but pairing it with simple sides truly completes the experience.
Serving
- Serve alongside a crisp, green side salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness.
- Crusty bread or garlic knots are perfect for soaking up every last bit of the creamy sauce.
- Roasted asparagus or broccoli makes a simple, healthy accompaniment.
Variations
- Spice it up: For a kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the beef mixture or finely diced jalapeños with the onions and peppers.
- Vegetable Boost: Incorporate sliced mushrooms, red bell peppers, or even a handful of spinach for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Meat Alternatives: Swap ground beef for thinly sliced cooked chicken breast for a “Philly Chicken Cheesesteak” version, or use thinly sliced deli roast beef.
- Low-Carb Options: Replace pasta with a base of cauliflower rice, roasted zucchini noodles, or thinly sliced bell peppers. You’ll need to adjust the liquid content to avoid a watery casserole.
Storage & Freezing
This comforting Philly Cheesesteak Casserole makes fantastic leftovers!
- Storage: Transfer any remaining casserole to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.
- Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave until warmed through. For larger amounts, cover the casserole loosely with foil and warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven until hot.
- Freezing: While it’s generally not recommended to freeze pasta casseroles due to potential texture changes (pasta can become mushy), you can freeze individual portions in airtight, freezer-safe containers for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently.
Nutrition Information
Here is an estimated nutritional breakdown for one serving of this delicious Philly Cheesesteak Casserole. These values are approximations and can vary based on specific ingredients and brands used.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 534 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 31 g |
| Protein | 32 g |
| Fat | 32 g |
| Saturated Fat | 18 g |
| Cholesterol | 127 mg |
| Sodium | 474 mg |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 3 g |
| Unsaturated Fat | 1 g |
| Serving Size | 1 serving |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While small shells are great, feel free to use other small pasta shapes like penne, elbow macaroni, or even wide egg noodles. Just cook them to al dente according to package directions.
What kind of beef is best for this casserole?
Ground beef makes this Philly Cheesesteak Casserole incredibly convenient and delicious. If you prefer, thinly sliced ribeye or sirloin steak can be used for a more authentic cheesesteak texture.
Is this casserole spicy?
No, this casserole is designed to be mild and family-friendly. However, you can easily add a kick by including red pepper flakes or finely diced jalapeños with the onions and peppers.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
You can assemble the casserole up to the point of baking, covering it and refrigerating for up to 24 hours. Let it come closer to room temperature before baking, and add a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed.
Why cook the pasta in beef stock?
Cooking the pasta in beef stock infuses it with a deeper, richer savory flavor compared to just using water. This simple step significantly enhances the overall taste of your cheesy dish.
Final Thoughts
This Philly Cheesesteak Casserole truly brings the joy of simple cooking to your home, offering all the beloved flavors of a classic in an easy, comforting package. It’s a perfect dish for honoring memories and creating new family bonds around the dinner table, quick enough for any weeknight, yet special enough for gathering loved ones.
We encourage you to try this delightful recipe soon; we know it will become a cherished family favorite! Share your experience and connect with us in the comments below.
Philly Cheesesteak Casserole
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 C).
- Cook small shells in a mixture of beef stock and water according to package directions, then reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
- In an oven-proof skillet, melt butter, sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds, then add diced bell pepper and onion and cook for about 5 minutes until tender.
- Add ground beef to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned; drain any grease, then return to heat and stir in cream cheese until fully melted.
- Stir the reserved pasta water, cooked noodles, and shredded mozzarella into the beef mixture.
- Top the casserole with provolone slices and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted and bubbly.
Notes
Hi there, I’m chef living in New York City. Every morning, I wake up to the sounds of my little one’s laughter and the comforting routine of preparing breakfast for my family my husband, our child, and my beloved mother, who’s become both my rock and my inspiration since my father passed away. As the only daughter left in our family, I feel a deep responsibility to carry on his memory whenever I step into the kitchen.
- Dominique
- Dominique
- Dominique
- Dominique
