Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

🧀🥩 Philly Cheesesteak Casserole with Creamy Southern Twist

🍝 Ingredients:

1 lb ground beef or thinly sliced ribeye steak

2 tbsp olive oil (if using steak)

1 green bell pepper, diced

1 small onion, diced

8 oz mushrooms, sliced (optional)

2 cloves garlic, minced

8 oz elbow macaroni or rotini pasta

3 tbsp butter

3 tbsp all-purpose flour

2 cups milk

4 oz cream cheese, softened

1 cup shredded provolone cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

½ tsp Worcestershire sauce

½ tsp smoked paprika

Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional topping: crushed Ritz crackers or French fried onions for Southern crunch

👩‍🍳 Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13" baking dish.

2. Cook pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

3. Prepare meat and veggies:

In a skillet, cook ground beef (or sear thinly sliced ribeye in olive oil) over medium-high heat until browned.

Add onion, bell pepper, mushrooms (if using), and garlic. Cook until veggies are softened, about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess grease if needed.

4. Make the creamy sauce:

In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook 1–2 minutes.

Slowly whisk in milk and bring to a simmer.

Stir in cream cheese until melted and smooth.

Add provolone, Worcestershire, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until cheese is melted and sauce is creamy.

5. Assemble the casserole:

In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, meat and veggie mixture, and cheese sauce. Stir to coat everything well.

Pour mixture into prepared baking dish and top with mozzarella cheese.

(Optional) Sprinkle with crushed Ritz or French fried onions for a crispy Southern touch.

6. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.

7. Let rest 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley or green onions if desired.