If you’re a fan of cheesesteak sandwiches but crave a heartier, more indulgent version, then this Cheesesteak Casserole is about to become your new go-to comfort food. Packed with tender beef, sautéed peppers and onions, creamy cheese sauce, and topped with perfectly cooked egg noodles, this dish is a delicious twist on the iconic Philadelphia sandwich. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the recipe step by step, including ingredient lists, cooking instructions, helpful tips, and even keto and low-carb versions. Get ready to enjoy the ultimate cheesy, savory delight with this Cheesesteak Casserole recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) beef sirloin, thinly sliced
- 8oz (225g) pack wide egg noodles, cooked according to package
- 1 tablespoon canola or vegetable oil
- 2 green bell peppers, sliced
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 1 jar cheese sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the Egg Noodles: Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Beef: In a large skillet, heat the canola or vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced beef sirloin and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Once cooked, remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Peppers and Onions: In the same skillet, add the sliced green bell peppers and thinly sliced onion. Cook until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat.
- Assemble the Casserole: In the prepared baking dish, layer the cooked egg noodles, cooked beef sirloin, sautéed peppers and onions, and cheese sauce. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of cheese sauce on top.
- Bake the Casserole: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the cheese sauce is bubbly.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the delicious flavors of this Cheesesteak Casserole!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Beef Substitute: If you prefer, you can substitute the beef sirloin with thinly sliced ribeye steak or even ground beef for a different texture.
- Cheese Sauce: While store-bought cheese sauce is convenient, you can also make your own homemade cheese sauce using a combination of melted cheese, milk, and butter.
- Additions: Feel free to customize your casserole by adding ingredients like mushrooms, garlic, or jalapeños for extra flavor.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
For those following a keto or low-carb diet, here’s how you can adapt this recipe:
- Noodle Substitute: Replace the egg noodles with spiralized zucchini noodles (zoodles) or shirataki noodles for a low-carb option.
- Cheese Sauce: Use a keto-friendly cheese sauce made with cream, butter, and shredded cheese instead of the jarred sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it, covered, until ready to bake. Simply let it come to room temperature before baking as directed.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Absolutely! Allow the casserole to cool completely, then portion it into individual servings and store them in airtight containers in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Yes, feel free to experiment with different types of cheese to suit your taste preferences. Provolone, Swiss, or Monterey Jack would all work well in this recipe.
With its irresistible combination of savory beef, tender vegetables, and creamy cheese sauce, this Cheesesteak Casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or bringing it to a potluck, this easy-to-make dish is guaranteed to impress. So gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy the delicious flavors of this comforting Cheesesteak Casserole!