Philly Cheesesteak Casserole with Pasta Shells: A Comforting Twist on a Classic

Introduction (200 words)

If you’re a fan of the iconic Philly cheesesteak sandwich, you’re in for a treat. The Philly Cheesesteak Casserole with Pasta Shells takes everything you love about the classic sandwich—tender beef, sautéed onions, and melty cheese—and transforms it into a comforting, one-dish casserole that’s perfect for family dinners.

This recipe is a fantastic twist on the traditional Philly cheesesteak, combining it with hearty pasta shells for a rich, flavorful casserole that’s as satisfying as it is delicious. The creamy cheese sauce envelops the pasta shells, while the beef and onions add savory depth to every bite. Whether you’re making this dish for a cozy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing potluck, it’s sure to become a family favorite.

For a deeper look into the history and evolution of the Philly cheesesteak, you can check out this Philly Cheesesteak History article.

In this article, we’ll guide you through each step of making this casserole, from choosing the right ingredients to tips for the perfect bake. Get ready to create a cheesy, savory masterpiece that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Philly Cheesesteak Casserole with Pasta Shells is an incredibly satisfying dish that combines the beloved flavors of a Philly cheesesteak with the convenience of a casserole. Here’s why you’ll love it:

Rich, cheesy sauce: The creamy cheese sauce perfectly coats the pasta and brings the whole dish together.
Tender beef and veggies: The beef, onions, and bell peppers add savory depth, just like a classic Philly cheesesteak.
Pasta shells: The large pasta shells hold the cheesy filling inside, making each bite more indulgent.
Simple ingredients: You don’t need a lot of fancy ingredients to make this dish; everything is easy to find at your local store.
Perfect for a crowd: This casserole is a great option for feeding a family or hosting a gathering.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The key to making a great Philly Cheesesteak Casserole with Pasta Shells is choosing fresh ingredients and making sure the flavors blend well together. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Casserole:

1 lb ground beef (or thinly sliced steak for a more traditional take)
12 oz pasta shells (large shells work best for holding the filling)
1 medium onion, finely chopped
1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
1 tbsp garlic, minced
1 ½ cups beef broth
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 ½ cups shredded provolone cheese
1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup heavy cream or milk
2 tbsp butter
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Cheese Sauce:

2 tbsp flour
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tbsp olive oil

If you’re looking for more inspiration on the best types of cheese to use for this casserole, check out this cheese guide.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by boiling the pasta shells in a large pot of salted water according to the package instructions, until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Beef and Veggies

While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef (or thinly sliced steak).
Season with a pinch of salt and pepper and cook the beef, breaking it up with a spatula, until it is browned and cooked through.
Remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside. In the same skillet, add the butter, followed by the onion, green bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté for 3-5 minutes, until the vegetables are tender and fragrant.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

In the skillet with the cooked vegetables, add the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
Slowly whisk in the beef broth and heavy cream, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Stir in the cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and Worcestershire sauce. Continue to stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef, sautéed vegetables, cheese sauce, and cooked pasta shells. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the provolone cheese and mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Let it cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to set.

For more casserole baking tips, check out this baking guide.

Serving Suggestions

Philly Cheesesteak Casserole with Pasta Shells is a filling dish on its own, but it can also be paired with other side dishes to round out the meal. Here are some great options:

Garlic bread: Serve with a warm, buttery slice of garlic bread for the perfect accompaniment.
Steamed vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans add a nutritious and crisp contrast to the richness of the casserole.
Salad: A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can help balance the richness of the casserole.
French fries: For a true Philly experience, serve with crispy French fries or tater tots on the side.

For more ideas on what to serve with a casserole, check out this casserole side dish guide.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the great things about Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is how versatile it is. Here are some variations and substitutions you can try:

Different meats: While ground beef is commonly used, you can substitute it with thinly sliced steak or chicken for a different flavor profile.
Different cheeses: If you’re not a fan of provolone or mozzarella, try using Swiss cheese or cheddar for a sharper taste.
Add mushrooms: For an even more authentic Philly cheesesteak flavor, sauté some mushrooms along with the onions and peppers.
Use penne pasta: If you don’t have pasta shells, try using penne or rigatoni, as they’ll still hold the cheese sauce and beef mixture well.
Make it spicy: Add some jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the casserole mixture for a spicy kick.

For more casserole variations, check out this casserole recipe collection.

Tips for the Perfect Philly Cheesesteak Casserole (200 words)

To ensure that your Philly Cheesesteak Casserole comes out perfectly, here are a few expert tips:

Don’t overcook the pasta: Since the pasta will bake in the casserole, cook it just until al dente. Overcooked pasta can become mushy during baking.
Use quality beef: For the best flavor and texture, use good-quality ground beef or steak. If using steak, try ribeye for a tender cut.
Make it ahead of time: This casserole can be prepared a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Just assemble it, cover it, and bake it the next day.
Keep it creamy: If you want a creamier casserole, add more heavy cream or use a mix of cream cheese and milk for the sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is easy to make, there are a few common mistakes to avoid:

Overbaking: Don’t overbake the casserole, as this can dry it out and make the cheese less creamy. Keep an eye on it while it’s in the oven.
Too much liquid: If your sauce is too watery, the casserole can become soggy. Make sure to let the sauce thicken before mixing it with the pasta.
Skipping the rest period: Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking. This lets the flavors settle and makes it easier to serve.

CONCLUSION

Philly Cheesesteak Casserole with Pasta Shells is a comforting, flavorful dish that brings the best of Philly cheesesteaks and pasta together in a hearty casserole. With a creamy cheese sauce, tender beef, and savory vegetables, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or any occasion that calls for a crowd-pleasing dinner.

By following the simple steps in this recipe and adding your own unique twists, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal that everyone will love. Whether you stick with the classic ingredients or experiment with your own variations, this casserole is sure to be a hit in your household.

Try it today, and enjoy a cheesy, savory meal that’s as easy to make as it is delicious!

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