Unleash the ultimate comfort food with this creamy cheesesteak potato casserole. It’s a hearty, flavorful dish that combines the best of cheesesteak and potatoes in one delicious bake. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Why This Recipe Works
- It’s a one-dish wonder that combines tender potatoes, savory steak, and melted cheese for a meal that’s both satisfying and easy to make.
- The creamy sauce ties all the ingredients together, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
- It’s versatile! You can customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences.
- Perfect for meal prep, as it reheats beautifully for leftovers.
- The combination of textures from the crispy edges to the soft, creamy center makes it irresistibly delicious.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs russet potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 lb ribeye steak, thinly sliced
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cups shredded provolone cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Equipment Needed
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
Instructions
Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F. While the oven is heating, slice the potatoes, steak, and onion as thinly as possible. This ensures even cooking and perfect texture in every bite.
Brown the Steak
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak slices, seasoning with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Cook until just browned, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Saute the Onions
In the same skillet, melt the butter and add the sliced onions. Cook until they’re soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. This step builds the flavor base for your casserole.
Layer the Casserole
In the baking dish, layer half the potatoes, followed by the steak, onions, and half the cheese. Repeat the layers, ending with cheese on top. Pour the heavy cream evenly over the top.
Bake to Perfection
Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips and Tricks
For an extra crispy top, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. If you’re short on time, parboil the potato slices for 5 minutes before assembling the casserole. This cuts down on baking time. For a richer flavor, substitute half the heavy cream with beef broth. Always let the casserole rest before serving to allow the layers to set, making it easier to slice.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Skip the steak and add mushrooms and bell peppers for a hearty vegetarian option.
- Spicy Kick: Add jalapenos or a dash of hot sauce to the cream mixture for those who like it hot.
- Cheese Lovers: Mix in some cream cheese with the heavy cream for an even cheesier dish.
- Low-Carb Alternative: Replace potatoes with cauliflower slices for a keto-friendly version.
- Extra Meaty: Add cooked bacon bits between the layers for an extra protein boost.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time since it’ll be cold from the fridge.
What’s the best way to slice the potatoes thinly?
A sharp knife or a mandoline slicer works best for getting uniformly thin slices. This ensures they cook evenly and absorb all the delicious flavors.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, provolone can be swapped for mozzarella, cheddar, or a blend of your favorite cheeses. Each cheese will bring its own unique flavor and melting properties to the dish.
Summary
This creamy cheesesteak potato casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender potatoes, savory steak, and melted cheese in a creamy sauce. It’s easy to make, customizable, and perfect for any occasion.