As I pulled this bubbling dish from the oven, the rich aroma instantly transported me to the bustling streets of Philadelphia. This Hearty Philly Cheesesteak Casserole takes the beloved classic sandwich and transforms it into a cozy, one-pan meal everyone will adore. With the option of using either ground beef or shaved steak, it’s a versatile recipe that caters to whatever you have on hand. Not only is it a fuss-free weeknight dinner that warms the soul, but it’s also a customizable crowd-pleaser that can adapt to various diets. Imagine serving this cheesy delight at your next gathering or enjoying it as a make-ahead meal throughout the week—what could be better? Ready to savor that comfort food goodness? Let’s dive in!
Why is this casserole a must-try?
Irresistible comfort food: This Philly Cheesesteak Casserole brings all your favorite sandwich flavors into a warm, satisfying dish that instantly feels like home.
Customizable options: Whether you lean toward ground beef or shaved steak, this recipe lets you shine with your personal touch. You can even swap in veggies for a healthy adjustment!
One-pan wonder: Simple to prepare and clean up, it keeps your kitchen stress-free, saving you precious time on busy nights.
Make-ahead flexibility: Perfect for meal prepping, you can assemble this dish ahead of time and bake when you’re ready. It’s like having a hearty hug waiting for you in the oven!
Mouthwatering aroma: The sizzling mix of onions, peppers, and spices creates an irresistible scent that draws everyone to the kitchen.
Serve this delightful dish alongside a fresh salad or some crusty bread, and you’ll never look at fast food the same way again!
Philly Cheesesteak Casserole Ingredients
For the Beef:
• Ground Beef (or Shaved Steak) – The base protein; substitute with thinly sliced ribeye for a more authentic flavor.
• Olive Oil – Used for cooking the meat; can substitute with vegetable oil.
• Salt – Essential seasoning; adjust according to taste.
• Black Pepper – Adds a bit of heat; freshly ground is preferred.
• Worcestershire Sauce – Enhances the meat’s flavor; soy sauce can be a substitute.
For the Veggies:
• Onion – Provides sweetness and flavor; yellow or sweet onions are ideal.
• Green and Red Bell Peppers – Adds color and crunch; feel free to mix colors for a flavor balance.
• White Mushrooms – Enhances umami flavor; other mushrooms can be substituted.
• Garlic – Adds depth of flavor; use fresh minced garlic for the best results.
For the Creamy Base:
• Cream Cheese – Provides creaminess and binds the mixture; Neufchâtel cheese can work as a lighter substitute.
• Beef Broth – Keeps the casserole moist and flavorful; vegetable broth can replace it for a vegetarian version.
For the Topping:
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – A melty topping; provolone or a cheese blend is also acceptable.
• Shredded Provolone Cheese – Traditional choice for Philly cheesesteaks; can substitute with white American cheese.
• Dried Oregano – Adds herbs’ brightness; Italian seasoning can be an alternative.
• Chopped Parsley (optional) – For garnish, adding freshness.
This delicious Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is ready to bring warmth and joy to your table!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Philly Cheesesteak Casserole
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats, grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and lightly grease it with cooking spray or olive oil. Preparing the dish in advance ensures the casserole will bake evenly, creating a delightful golden crust on top.
Step 2: Cook the Meat
In a large skillet set over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil and allow it to warm up. Once hot, add the ground beef or shaved steak, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the meat is browned and cooked through, then drain any excess fat before proceeding.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
Now, it’s time for the veggies! Add chopped onions, diced green and red bell peppers, and sliced white mushrooms to the skillet with the cooked meat. Sauté for 5-6 minutes until the vegetables soften and release their aromas. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, ensuring everything is fragrant.
Step 4: Season & Combine
Sprinkle salt and freshly cracked black pepper over the sautéed mixture, then add Worcestershire sauce and beef broth. Stir well and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. You’ll want to see a bit of bubbling as it cooks, enhancing that savory essence of the Philly Cheesesteak Casserole.
Step 5: Make It Creamy
Lower the heat and mix in the cream cheese, stirring continuously until it’s melted and fully incorporated into the meat and vegetable mixture. This creaminess will bind everything together, creating a rich base that represents the essence of your Philly Cheesesteak Casserole.
Step 6: Assemble the Casserole
Take the hearty beef and veggie mixture and spread it evenly in the prepared baking dish. Layer shredded mozzarella and provolone cheeses generously on top, allowing the melty goodness to shine through. Finally, sprinkle dried oregano for a hint of herbal brightness, enhancing the overall flavor experience.
Step 7: Bake
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on it, looking for that beautiful bubbling and golden cheese on top. This is the moment where your Philly Cheesesteak Casserole transforms into a comforting, inviting dish ready to be savored.
Step 8: Serve
Once baked to perfection, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the flavors settle and makes serving easier. If desired, garnish with chopped parsley for a pop of color before diving into this comforting meal. Enjoy it hot and relish every cheesy bite!
Make Ahead Options
This Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is an excellent choice for meal prep! You can prepare and assemble the entire casserole up to 24 hours in advance, storing it covered in the fridge. Just make sure to keep the cheese separate until you’re ready to bake to prevent it from getting soggy. If you need a longer timeframe, the prepped casserole can also sit in the freezer for up to 2 months—just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking. When ready to serve, simply top with the cheese and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes until bubbling and golden. This way, you can relish a heartwarming, homemade meal even on your busiest days!
Philly Cheesesteak Casserole Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this casserole your own with a few delightful twists that will elevate your mealtime experience!
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Cheesy Pasta Bake: Mix in cooked pasta with the meat mixture before baking for a comforting pasta experience. The pasta absorbs all those savory flavors, making this dish even heartier and extra delightful!
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Loaded Philly: Top with sautéed mushrooms, jalapeños, or crispy bacon for an explosion of flavors. These additions bring crunch and depth, enhancing the classic cheesesteak vibe while keeping it exciting.
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Keto-Friendly: Replace the bread with additional vegetables like zucchini or cauliflower to make it low-carb. This delicious swap maintains the essence while fitting perfectly into a keto diet—trust me, you won’t miss the carbs!
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Open-Faced Sub Style: Serve the casserole on toasted hoagie rolls for a sandwich-like experience that transforms it into a finger-food favorite. Everyone loves a good sub—embrace the casual vibes this method brings to the table!
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Spicy Twist: Incorporate red pepper flakes or pepper jack cheese to amp up the heat. This variation is for those who enjoy a little kick in their comfort food; it’s sure to bring the heat and excitement!
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Vegetarian Delight: Swap the beef for a mix of lentils or jackfruit, and use vegetable broth for a flavorful vegetarian option. You won’t believe how satisfying this plant-based twist can be.
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Gourmet Touch: Add truffle oil drizzled over the top before serving for a luxurious finish. Pairing this unique touch with your cheesy casserole creates a restaurant-quality dish at home!
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Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme or basil with the beef mixture for a fragrant lift. Fresh herbs can transform the dish, adding brightness, making each bite feel fresh and full of life!
For more incredible casserole ideas, check out my recipes for Ravioli Casserole Cheesy and Spicy Southern Casserole! Don’t hesitate to experiment and find your favorite combination!
How to Store and Freeze Philly Cheesesteak Casserole
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: Allow the casserole to cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil and freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw the Philly Cheesesteak Casserole in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 25-30 minutes.
Make-Ahead: You can prepare the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Assemble, cover tightly, and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Expert Tips for Philly Cheesesteak Casserole
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Perfect Protein Choice: Choose ground beef or shaved steak based on your preference. For authenticity, sliced ribeye adds a great flavor.
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Veggie Variations: Don’t hesitate to mix and match your vegetables! You can add zucchini, spinach, or even jalapeños for added depth without compromising the Philly Cheesesteak Casserole’s essence.
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Creaminess Factor: For extra creaminess, make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing it in. This will help it melt smoothly into the mixture.
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Baking Bliss: Keep an eye on your casserole towards the end of baking! Broil it for a minute or two for an irresistible crispy top that everyone will love.
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Make-Ahead Magic: You can assemble the Philly Cheesesteak Casserole up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover it tightly and pop it in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.
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Storing Leftovers: Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to four days—perfect for those cozy lunch days ahead!
What to Serve with Hearty Philly Cheesesteak Casserole?
Nothing pairs quite like comfort food, and this casserole deserves a delightful accompaniment for the perfect meal experience.
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Garlic Bread: Crispy and buttery, it’s the ideal side to soak up all the cheesy goodness and add an aromatic touch.
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Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with zesty dressing creates a refreshing contrast, balancing the rich flavors of the casserole.
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Roasted Vegetables: Crunchy, caramelized veggies enhance your plate with a variety of textures and seasonal flavors, making every bite rich and satisfying.
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Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw brings a delightful crunch and tang, complementing the melty nature of the casserole perfectly.
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Sautéed Spinach: Lightly sautéed spinach with garlic offers a nutritious and vibrant side, making it a great way to incorporate some greens.
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Beer or Lemonade: A refreshing drink like a chilled beer or homemade lemonade enhances the meal’s overall comfort and flavor. They harmonize beautifully with the cheesy richness of the casserole.
Pair any of these suggestions with your Hearty Philly Cheesesteak Casserole, and watch how they transform your dinner into a memorable feast.
Philly Cheesesteak Casserole Recipe FAQs
What type of beef is best for this casserole?
Absolutely! You can use either ground beef or shaved steak, depending on your preference. For a more traditional approach, thinly sliced ribeye delivers an authentic Philly cheesesteak flavor. Just make sure to slice it against the grain for tender bites.
How should I store leftovers of this Philly Cheesesteak Casserole?
Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. This way, you’ll have easy access to a quick and satisfying meal anytime. Just reheat in the oven or microwave, and it’ll taste almost as good as fresh!
Can I freeze this casserole? If so, how?
Yes! To freeze, allow the casserole to cool completely after baking. Then, tightly wrap it in plastic wrap or foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 25-30 minutes until warmed through.
I want to make this casserole ahead of time; how can I do that?
Very! You can assemble the Philly Cheesesteak Casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Just prepare the entire dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When you’re ready, bake it straight from the fridge; you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What substitutions can I make for dietary considerations?
If you’re looking to customize for dietary needs, you can easily swap ground beef for ground turkey or a plant-based protein for a lighter option. For a vegetarian version, replace beef broth with vegetable broth and omit the meat entirely. Cream cheese can be substituted with Neufchâtel cheese for a lighter option or a non-dairy cream for a vegan-friendly dish.
What should I do if the casserole doesn’t seem to be cooking evenly?
If you notice uneven cooking, it’s best to check your oven’s temperature accuracy or rotate the casserole halfway through baking. It can also help to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed in the baking dish. If the top is browning too quickly while the center remains cool, consider covering it with foil to allow it to finish cooking without burning the cheese.
Irresistible Philly Cheesesteak Casserole for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
- In a large skillet set over medium heat, add olive oil and warm it up. Add ground beef or shaved steak, breaking it apart and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add chopped onions, diced green and red bell peppers, and sliced white mushrooms to the skillet. Sauté for 5-6 minutes until softened, then stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Sprinkle salt and black pepper over the mixture, then add Worcestershire sauce and beef broth. Stir well and simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Lower the heat and mix in cream cheese, stirring continuously until melted and incorporated.
- Spread the beef and veggie mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Layer shredded mozzarella and provolone cheeses on top, then sprinkle dried oregano.
- Bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes until bubbling and golden. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
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