Philly Cheesesteak Casserole Recipe

Craving a hearty, comforting meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for a family dinner or get-together? Look no further than this Philly Cheesesteak Casserole recipe! This dish takes all the flavors you love from the traditional Philly cheesesteak and transforms them into a warm, cheesy casserole that’s sure to please. Packed with tender beef, sautéed onions and peppers, and ooey-gooey cheese, it’s an irresistible option for busy weeknights or when you want to impress your guests. Ready to dive into this amazing dish? Keep reading to learn how to make a Philly Cheesesteak Casserole from scratch and tips on how to perfect it!

What is a Philly Cheesesteak Casserole?

Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is a baked version of the classic Philly cheesesteak sandwich, a staple from Philadelphia known for its juicy, thinly sliced beef, sautéed onions, green peppers, and loads of melted cheese. In this casserole, we combine all those savory ingredients into a bubbling dish that’s not only easy to assemble but also offers rich flavor in every bite. The casserole form makes it an excellent choice for feeding a crowd, meal prepping for the week, or indulging in some cheesy, beefy comfort food.

Ingredients List for Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

Before we jump into the detailed instructions, let’s start with a breakdown of the ingredients you’ll need to create this mouthwatering casserole. The ingredients are simple, but together they create a deliciously satisfying dish.

• 1 lb ribeye steak or ground beef – You can use thinly sliced steak or ground beef depending on what’s easier for you to find.
• 1 medium onion, sliced – A key ingredient that adds sweetness and flavor.
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced – Adds the authentic Philly cheesesteak flavor and some crunch.
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced – For color and an extra layer of sweetness.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Enhances the overall flavor with a hint of savory goodness.
• 8 oz cream cheese – Adds richness and creaminess to the casserole.
• 1 cup shredded provolone cheese – Classic for a cheesesteak flavor.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – For extra meltiness.
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce – Brings out the umami flavor of the beef.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Basic seasoning to bring everything together.
• 2 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing the veggies and beef.
• 1 cup beef broth – To keep the casserole moist and flavorful.
• Optional: 1 cup mushrooms, sliced – If you like mushrooms in your cheesesteak, add them here.

Substitutions and Variations

The beauty of this Philly Cheesesteak Casserole recipe is that it’s versatile and can easily be customized to your preferences. Here are some substitutions and variations you might want to consider:

• Steak Options: If ribeye is too pricey or unavailable, you can use flank steak, sirloin, or even ground beef, which works just as well in a pinch.
• Cheese Variations: If you don’t have provolone, feel free to use American cheese, cheddar, or even pepper jack for a spicier kick.
• Low-Carb Option: If you’re following a low-carb or keto diet, this recipe is already pretty low in carbs. But to reduce it even further, make sure you omit any optional bread toppings.
• Add Mushrooms: If you’re a fan of mushrooms, sauté them along with the onions and peppers for an extra layer of flavor.
• Spice it Up: Add a dash of crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce if you like your meals on the spicier side.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Ready to get cooking? Let’s walk through the process of making this delicious Philly Cheesesteak Casserole, step by step. It’s simpler than you might think and only requires a handful of easy steps.

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). You want to make sure your oven is hot and ready to go when you’re done assembling the casserole.

Step 2: Prepare the Beef

If you’re using ribeye steak, slice it thinly. If you’re using ground beef, you can proceed to brown it directly. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the steak slices or ground beef and cook until browned and cooked through. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, drain any excess fat and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed. Toss in the sliced onions, green and red bell peppers, and garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, around 5-7 minutes. If you're using mushrooms, now is the time to add them to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce.

Step 4: Combine the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef, sautéed vegetables, softened cream cheese, and beef broth. Stir until everything is well combined and the cream cheese has melted into the mixture. This step ensures that every bite of your casserole will be creamy and flavorful.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with some olive oil or cooking spray. Pour the beef and vegetable mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly. Top with the shredded provolone and mozzarella cheese.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden on top. You can turn on the broiler for the last couple of minutes to get a crispy, golden cheese topping if you prefer.

Step 7: Let it Cool and Serve

Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to settle and make it easier to cut into portions.

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

Cooking Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is a straightforward process, but there are a few tips to ensure the best results. First, be sure to thinly slice your steak if using ribeye. This allows the beef to cook evenly and absorb the flavors from the onions, peppers, and cheese. Also, don’t skimp on sautéing your vegetables—cooking them until they are soft and slightly caramelized enhances their flavor.

Lastly, use a combination of cheeses to ensure the casserole has that signature cheesy melt. The blend of provolone and mozzarella offers a great balance of flavor and texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Beef: Be careful not to overcook the beef. Whether using steak or ground beef, it should be browned but still juicy.
• Not Sautéing the Veggies Long Enough: Vegetables should be soft but not mushy. If they’re undercooked, they’ll be too crunchy for the casserole.
• Using Too Much Cheese (Or Too Little): While it's tempting to go overboard with the cheese, stick to the recipe to keep a balance. Too little, and the casserole won’t be creamy enough. Too much, and it might become greasy.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is best served hot and bubbly, straight from the oven. Here are some tips for serving and presenting your dish in the best possible way:

• Serve with Bread: For a complete Philly cheesesteak experience, serve slices of crusty French bread or hoagie rolls on the side to mop up any extra sauce and cheese.
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: For a pop of color and flavor, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or basil over the top before serving.
• Portion with Ease: To make serving easier, cut the casserole into squares and use a spatula to transfer them to plates.

How to Serve Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

This casserole is hearty and filling, so it’s best served as the main dish. You can pair it with a light side salad or some roasted vegetables if you're looking to add more greens to the meal. If you're serving it at a gathering or party, cut it into smaller squares and offer it as a warm, cheesy appetizer.

Presentation Ideas for Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

• Individual Ramekins: If you want to elevate the presentation, serve the casserole in individual ramekins. This is a fun way to make it feel more personal for dinner guests.
• Cast Iron Skillet: For a rustic presentation, bake and serve the casserole in a cast-iron skillet. It adds to the comfort-food vibe and keeps the dish warm for longer.

Philly Cheesesteak Casserole Recipe Tips

• Prep Ahead: This casserole can be prepped in advance. Simply assemble everything in the baking dish, cover it, and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake. It’ll keep well for up to 24 hours in the fridge.
• Double the Recipe for Leftovers: If you're meal prepping or feeding a crowd, consider doubling the recipe. The leftovers are just as tasty reheated the next day!
• Freeze for Later: You can freeze this casserole before baking. Cover it tightly with foil and freeze for up to three months. When you're ready to bake, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and then bake as directed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use ground beef instead of steak? Yes! Ground beef is a great alternative and is often easier to find and more budget-friendly.

What can I serve with Philly Cheesesteak Casserole? This casserole is hearty on its own, but it pairs well with a simple side salad, roasted vegetables, or even some garlic bread.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and bake when ready.

How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven.

Can I freeze Philly Cheesesteak Casserole? Yes, you can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking.

Conclusion

This Philly Cheesesteak Casserole recipe is the perfect way to enjoy all the flavors of a classic cheesesteak in a convenient, family-friendly dish. It’s loaded with tender beef, sautéed veggies, and plenty of melted cheese, making it a comforting option for any meal. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, meal prepping, or just craving some cheesy goodness, this casserole will not disappoint. Be sure to try the variations and substitutions to make it your own, and don’t forget to serve it up hot and bubbly for the ultimate comfort food experience!

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