Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

Embrace the flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak in a novel way with this Philly Cheesesteak Casserole. This recipe is a personal favorite and a hit at family gatherings, potlucks, and cozy dinners at home. It combines the savory goodness of ground beef, the freshness of bell peppers and onions, and the rich, gooey delight of melted cheddar cheese, all baked to perfection. It’s not just a casserole; it’s a comfort food extravaganza that brings a smile with every bite.

Ingredients

  • 500 g (1 lb) ground beef
  • 2 bell peppers (1 yellow and 1 green), diced
  • 1 yellow onion, diced
  • 250 g (approximately 8 oz) white mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese, grated
  • Herbs and Spices:
    • 2 teaspoons paprika
    • 1 teaspoon Mexican chili powder
    • 2 teaspoons dried thyme
    • 2 teaspoons dried basil
    • 2 teaspoons salt (adjust to taste)

Instructions

  1. Sauté onions, mushrooms, and peppers until softened. Transfer to a casserole dish.
  2. In the same pan, brown the ground beef.
  3. Combine the beef with the sautéed vegetables in the casserole dish.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and cream. Pour over the beef and vegetable mixture.
  5. Sprinkle grated cheese on top. Bake at 200ºC/400ºF for about 25 minutes, until cheese is melted and golden.
  6. Remove from the oven when the cheese is bubbly and starting to brown. Cut into squares and serve.
  7. Optional: Serve with homemade mayonnaise.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: Approximately 8

  • Calories per serving: Approximately 350 kcal
  • Note: The calorie count is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

This casserole is not just delicious but also offers a good balance of protein, fats, and carbs, along with the nutritional benefits of vegetables.

Preparation Time

  • Prep time: 20 minutes
  • Cook time: 25 minutes
  • Total time: 45 minutes

Additional Tips

  • For a leaner option, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
  • Adding a dash of Worcestershire sauce to the beef while browning can enhance the flavor.
  • If you’re looking for a low-carb option, you can reduce the number of peppers and omit the mushrooms.

FAQ Section

  1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance and bake it when needed.
  2. Can I use different types of cheese? Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with provolone, mozzarella, or a mix of your favorite cheeses.
  3. Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free? This recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure all your ingredients are gluten-free, especially if using any additional sauces or seasonings.
  4. How should I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
  5. Can I add other vegetables to this casserole? Yes, feel free to add spinach, zucchini, or any other vegetables you like.