Philly Cheesesteak Casserole Recipe

Craving the flavors of a Philly cheesesteak but want the ease of a baked dish? Look no further than Philly Cheesesteak Casserole! This dish is the perfect combination of juicy beef, sautéed peppers, onions, and gooey melted cheese, all baked together in a hearty, satisfying casserole. Whether you’re feeding the family or meal prepping for the week, this dish packs all the classic Philly cheesesteak flavors into a convenient one-dish meal. Let’s get started with this crowd-pleasing, cheesy, and delicious recipe!

---

What is Philly Cheesesteak Casserole?

Philly Cheesesteak Casserole takes all the best parts of the iconic Philadelphia sandwich—thinly sliced beef, sautéed bell peppers, onions, and melted cheese—and transforms it into a comforting casserole. Instead of being served on a hoagie roll, the ingredients are layered into a baking dish, topped with a combination of cheeses, and baked to golden perfection. It's the perfect dish when you're craving the classic sandwich but want something heartier and easier to prepare for a larger group.

---

Ingredients List for Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

Here’s what you’ll need to make a delicious Philly Cheesesteak Casserole. These simple ingredients come together to create a flavorful and filling dish.

For the Casserole:

• 1 ½ pounds thinly sliced beef (ribeye, sirloin, or steak strips) – The star of the dish, cooked to tender perfection.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – For sautéing the vegetables and beef.
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced – Adds sweetness and flavor to the casserole.
• 2 bell peppers (1 red, 1 green), thinly sliced – For that classic Philly cheesesteak flavor and texture.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – Adds rich flavor to the dish.
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce – Adds depth of flavor to the beef.
• Salt and black pepper, to taste – For seasoning the meat and vegetables.
• 1 cup beef broth – Adds moisture and enhances the beefy flavor.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening the sauce) – To thicken the casserole sauce, if needed.
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened – Adds creaminess to the dish.
• 2 cups shredded provolone cheese – The key to a gooey, cheesy topping.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – Adds extra melty goodness to the top.
• 4 eggs – Helps bind the casserole together.

---

Substitutions and Variations

This Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is highly customizable. Here are some substitution ideas and variations to fit your taste or dietary needs:

• Meat: Ribeye is the traditional choice for Philly cheesesteaks, but you can use sirloin, ground beef, or even deli roast beef for a quicker version. Ground turkey or chicken also work as lighter alternatives.
• Cheese: Provolone is the go-to cheese for a classic Philly cheesesteak, but you can mix in mozzarella, cheddar, or American cheese. For a spicy kick, use pepper jack cheese.
• Vegetables: Add mushrooms or swap out the peppers for other veggies like zucchini or spinach to boost the nutrition.
• Low Carb: If you’re looking for a low-carb version, skip the pasta or bread component and serve the casserole as is, or layer it with cauliflower or zucchini noodles.
• Extra Creaminess: For a richer, creamier casserole, add ½ cup of heavy cream or sour cream to the meat mixture before baking.

---

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious Philly Cheesesteak Casserole:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or casserole dish with cooking spray or olive oil.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and bell peppers. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are soft and slightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Remove the vegetables from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Beef

In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Add the thinly sliced beef, season with salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce, and cook until browned and just cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. If using ground beef, cook until no pink remains. Remove from heat and drain any excess grease.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In the skillet with the beef, pour in 1 cup of beef broth and bring it to a simmer. If you'd like the sauce to be thicker, whisk together 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water, then stir it into the skillet and simmer until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes. Stir in the softened cream cheese until fully melted and combined. Remove the skillet from heat.

Step 5: Whisk the Eggs

In a medium bowl, whisk together the 4 eggs. These eggs will help bind the casserole together, creating a creamy, custard-like texture.

Step 6: Assemble the Casserole

In the prepared baking dish, spread the sautéed onions and peppers evenly on the bottom. Pour the beef and cream cheese mixture over the vegetables, spreading it evenly. Pour the whisked eggs on top and lightly stir to combine.

Step 7: Top with Cheese

Sprinkle the shredded provolone and mozzarella cheeses over the top of the casserole, ensuring an even layer for that perfect melty topping.

Step 8: Bake the Casserole

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. If you prefer a more golden top, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes, keeping an eye on it to prevent burning.

Step 9: Let it Rest

Once the casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This helps the casserole set and makes it easier to slice and serve.

---

How to Cook Philly Cheesesteak Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s a quick summary of how to make this casserole:

1. Sauté the onions, peppers, and garlic until soft and caramelized.
2. Cook the beef until browned and stir in Worcestershire sauce for added flavor.
3. Make a creamy sauce with beef broth and cream cheese, and optionally thicken it with cornstarch.
4. Whisk eggs and combine with the beef mixture.
5. Assemble the casserole by layering the vegetables and beef mixture, and top with provolone and mozzarella.
6. Bake until bubbly and golden, then let the casserole rest before serving.

---

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the beef: If using ribeye or thin steak slices, be careful not to overcook the beef. It should be just browned and tender, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
• Skipping the rest time: Letting the casserole rest after baking is essential for the layers to set, making it easier to cut and serve.
• Not seasoning enough: Be sure to season the beef, vegetables, and sauce as you cook. Since there are many layers, proper seasoning ensures the dish is flavorful throughout.
• Not thickening the sauce: If you prefer a less liquidy casserole, don't skip the cornstarch step. This helps the sauce hold together, making the casserole firmer.

---

Serving and Presentation Tips

How you serve and present your Philly Cheesesteak Casserole can elevate the dining experience. Here are a few tips:

How to Serve Philly Cheesesteak Casserole:

• Family-Style: Serve the casserole straight from the baking dish at the dinner table for a casual, comforting meal.
• Individual Portions: Slice the casserole into squares and plate individual servings. Add a garnish of fresh herbs like parsley for color.

Presentation Ideas for Philly Cheesesteak Casserole:

• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or fresh basil brightens up the dish and adds a touch of color.
• Add Toasted Bread: Serve with garlic bread or toasted hoagie rolls on the side for an authentic Philly cheesesteak experience.
• Serve with a Side Salad: A light side salad with a simple vinaigrette pairs well with the richness of the casserole.

---

Philly Cheesesteak Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the casserole ahead of time by assembling it up to the baking step, then refrigerate it (covered) for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed when ready to serve.
• Freezing: Philly Cheesesteak Casserole freezes well. After assembling, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
• Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
• Crispy Topping: If you love a crispy top, sprinkle a mixture of breadcrumbs and melted butter over the cheese layer before baking for a crunchy finish.

---

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use ground beef instead of sliced steak?

Yes! Ground beef is a great alternative and is often more budget-friendly. Cook the ground beef until no pink remains, then proceed with the recipe as directed.

What type of cheese should I use for Philly Cheesesteak Casserole?

Provolone is the classic cheese used in Philly cheesesteaks, but mozzarella, cheddar, or even American cheese works well too. For a spicy twist, you can use pepper jack.

How do I make this casserole keto-friendly?

To make a keto-friendly version, skip the pasta or bread, and add low-carb vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini instead. You can also use heavy cream and cheese to keep it rich and satisfying.

Can I freeze Philly Cheesesteak Casserole?

Yes! Assemble the casserole and wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil before freezing. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking.

---

Conclusion

Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is the perfect meal for when you’re craving the savory, cheesy flavors of a Philly cheesesteak but want something more filling and easy to share. With juicy beef, caramelized onions, peppers, and melty provolone cheese all baked to perfection, this casserole is sure to be a hit with your family or guests. Plus, it’s incredibly customizable to suit your preferences. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, a potluck, or meal prep, this hearty, delicious casserole will not disappoint. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to dig into a Philly-inspired dish that’s bound to become a household favorite!

Print