Philly Cheesesteak Casserole Style
Philly Cheesesteak Casserole Style offers a delightful twist on the classic sandwich, transforming its iconic flavors into a hearty casserole. This recipe combines tender bowtie pasta with savory ground beef, mushrooms, and a creamy mushroom soup base, all topped with a generous layer of sharp Cheddar cheese and buttery breadcrumbs.
Baked to perfection, it emerges from the oven with a crispy, golden-brown topping that complements the rich flavors within. Perfect for a comforting family meal, this casserole captures the essence of a Philly cheesesteak in a convenient and delicious format.
Philly Cheesesteak Casserole Style
Ingredients
2 cans cream of mushroom soup
2 onions chopped
2 tbsp vegetable oil
1 ½ pounds ground beef
1 can of milk
4 ounces of sliced mushrooms
1 green bell pepper sliced
½ tsp dried thyme
1 cup dry bread crumbs
Salt and pepper to taste
4 cups Sharp Cheddar cheese, shredded
3 tbsp melted butter
16 ounces bowtie pasta, cooked according to package directions
Instructions
Step 1:
Preheat the oven to 375*
Lightly grease a 9×13 baking pan
Step 2:
Cook the pasta according to directions on the pack
Heat the oil in a large skillet and saute the onions and green bell pepper
Step 3:
Add the ground beef and cook until browned and thoroughly cooked
Add in the two cans of soup mix and 1 can of milk
Stir well to combine
Step 4:
Add the mushrooms and the thyme
Stir in 3 cups of the shredded cheese
Step 5:
Season with salt and pepper and spread into the baking pan
In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with the bread crumbs.
Step 6:
Mix in the remaining cheese
Sprinkle evenly over the casserole
Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until the top is crispy and lightly browned.
Enjoy!
Notes:
Creamy Mushroom Base: The use of cream of mushroom soup provides a rich and creamy foundation to this casserole, enhancing the flavors of the beef and vegetables.
Hearty Protein: Ground beef is the main protein source, adding substance and flavor. Ensure it’s thoroughly cooked before combining with other ingredients.
Vegetable Medley: Onions, green bell pepper, and mushrooms add texture and flavor complexity. Sautéing them before mixing with the beef ensures they are tender and aromatic.
Cheese Factor: Sharp Cheddar cheese, both mixed into the casserole and sprinkled on top with breadcrumbs, forms a cheesy crust that’s irresistible when baked.
Bowtie Pasta: The pasta provides a sturdy base and absorbs the creamy sauce and flavors, adding a comforting texture to the dish.
Seasoning: Dried thyme, salt, and pepper enhance the overall savory profile. Adjust seasoning according to taste preference.
Baking: Baking at 375°F (190°C) ensures the casserole cooks through and develops a crispy, golden-brown topping. Check for doneness after 30-35 minutes.
Preparation Tips: Lightly greasing the baking pan prevents sticking. Mixing melted butter with breadcrumbs creates a crunchy topping that contrasts with the creamy interior.
Variations: Consider adding other ingredients like diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, or different types of cheese to personalize the flavor.
Serving: Serve hot and fresh from the oven, allowing the casserole to cool slightly before serving ensures flavors meld together.
Nutrition Information:
SERVING SIZE: 1
Amount Per Serving:
CALORIES: 120TOTAL FAT: 22gSATURATED FAT: 12gTRANS FAT: 10gCHOLESTEROL: 160mgSODIUM: 28mgCARBOHYDRATES: 140gSUGAR: 26gPROTEIN: 12g
Nutrition Information:
Can I use a different type of soup instead of cream of mushroom?
Yes, you can substitute cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or cream of celery soup if you prefer different flavors.
Is it necessary to use sharp cheddar cheese, or can I use a different cheese?
While sharp cheddar cheese adds a distinct flavor, you can use other cheeses like mozzarella, provolone, or a blend of cheeses for variety.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time and bake it later?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.
Just be sure to add the breadcrumb topping just before baking to ensure it stays crispy.
What can I serve as a side dish with Philly Cheesesteak Casserole?
This casserole pairs well with a simple green salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread.
It’s also delicious on its own as a hearty meal.
Can I freeze leftovers of this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers of Philly Cheesesteak Casserole.
Store them in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven or microwave.
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef if you prefer a lighter option.
Just ensure it’s cooked thoroughly before adding it to the casserole.
Is it necessary to use bowtie pasta, or can I use a different type of pasta?
You can use any type of pasta you prefer for this casserole.
Penne, rotini, or even spaghetti would work well.
Can I omit the mushrooms from the recipe if I don’t like them?
Yes, you can omit the mushrooms if you prefer.
You can add extra vegetables like zucchini or spinach to customize the dish to your taste.
What should I do if the top of the casserole is browning too quickly?
If the top of the casserole is browning too quickly, you can cover it loosely with aluminum foil for the remaining baking time to prevent it from burning.
Can I add other seasonings or herbs to enhance the flavor of the casserole?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with additional seasonings such as garlic powder, onion powder, or Italian seasoning to tailor the flavor to your liking.