Philly Cheesesteak Casserole Recipe

Philly Cheesesteak Casserole brings all the classic flavors of a traditional Philly cheesesteak into a hearty, oven-baked dish. Featuring tender slices of beef, savory peppers and onions, gooey melted cheese, and a creamy sauce, this casserole is perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers the next day. Unlike traditional cheesesteaks, this version is carb-conscious and ideal for serving alongside fresh salad or a simple side of roasted vegetables.

In this recipe, we’ll cover everything from selecting the best ingredients to step-by-step preparation, ensuring that you end up with a flavorful, comforting casserole perfect for any occasion.

The Philly cheesesteak is known for its thinly sliced beef, onions, bell peppers, and lots of melted cheese, usually served on a hoagie roll. This casserole takes all those elements and transforms them into a warm, comforting, and filling baked dish that you can prepare with ease. Not only is it a wonderful choice for family dinners, but it also makes a fantastic option for potlucks or gatherings. Plus, it can be made low-carb by omitting bread or pasta, making it perfect for those on keto or low-carb diets.

Step-by-Step Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients

1. Slice the Steak: Thinly slice the ribeye steak into strips. If you’re using ground beef, skip this step.
2. Chop the Vegetables: Slice the bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms (if using). Aim for uniform slices so that everything cooks evenly.
3. Mince the Garlic: Set aside the minced garlic for later.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature will help the casserole bake evenly without drying out.

Cooking Instructions

Step 3: Cook the Beef and Vegetables

1. Sear the Steak: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the steak strips and cook until browned, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the steak and set aside.
   • If you’re using ground beef, cook it until fully browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
2. Cook the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil if necessary. Sauté the onions, bell peppers, mushrooms, and garlic until softened and slightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes.
   • Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
3. Combine Steak and Veggies: Return the cooked steak to the skillet with the vegetables. Stir everything together and cook for another minute to blend the flavors.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

1. Mix Cream Cheese and Cream: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, heavy cream, and beef broth. Whisk until smooth.
2. Add Seasonings: Stir in Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until the sauce is creamy and well combined.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

1. Layer the Ingredients: In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread the beef and vegetable mixture evenly.
2. Pour the Sauce: Pour the cream cheese mixture over the beef and vegetables, spreading it out to cover everything.
3. Add Cheese Topping: Arrange slices of provolone cheese over the top or sprinkle with shredded mozzarella for a golden, bubbly finish. Optionally, sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

1. Bake: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
2. Broil for Extra Color (Optional): For a more golden, crispy top, switch the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
3. Cool Slightly: Let the casserole sit for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps it set and makes serving easier.

Serving Suggestions

• With Crusty Bread: A slice of crusty bread or garlic bread is perfect for scooping up the cheesy goodness.
• Over Rice or Pasta: If you’re not limiting carbs, this casserole is delicious served over rice or pasta.
• With a Side Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast.
• Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted vegetables like asparagus, green beans, or Brussels sprouts for a wholesome meal.

Tips for Success

1. Choose the Right Beef: Ribeye or sirloin is ideal for the best flavor and tenderness, but ground beef also works as a budget-friendly alternative.
2. Pre-Cook Vegetables: Sautéing the vegetables first prevents them from releasing too much water during baking, which can make the casserole watery.
3. Use Softened Cream Cheese: This helps the sauce come together smoothly. You can microwave it for a few seconds to soften if needed.
4. Let it Rest: Allowing the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking makes it easier to slice and enhances the flavors.

Variations

• Add Pasta: Mix in cooked pasta, like penne or rotini, for a heartier dish.
• Use Different Cheeses: Swap provolone with mozzarella, cheddar, or Monterey Jack for a different cheese profile.
• Add Heat: A dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes adds a bit of spice if you prefer a zesty casserole.
• Low-Carb Version: Skip the rice or pasta and serve with roasted cauliflower or a green salad for a low-carb alternative.
• Extra Veggies: Add spinach, zucchini, or even diced tomatoes for added nutrition.

Storage and Reheating

To Store

• Refrigerator: Cover the casserole tightly and store in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezer: Wrap individual portions or the entire casserole in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months.

To Reheat

• Oven: Reheat in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes, until heated through. Cover with foil to prevent the cheese from drying out.
• Microwave: For a quick reheat, microwave individual servings for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Conclusion

Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is a delicious twist on the classic sandwich, perfect for a satisfying meal without the fuss. It captures the essence of the cheesesteak but in an easy-to-make, bake-and-serve format that everyone can enjoy. The rich combination of tender beef, caramelized vegetables, and gooey cheese makes this dish irresistible.

Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly dinner, a comforting potluck contribution, or a way to enjoy classic Philly flavors with a twist, this casserole is sure to please. Enjoy!

Yield: 6

Philly Cheesesteak Casserole Recipe

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Philly Cheesesteak Casserole brings all the classic flavors of a traditional Philly cheesesteak into a hearty, oven-baked dish. Featuring tender slices of beef, savory peppers and onions, gooey melted cheese, and a creamy sauce, this casserole is perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers the next day. Unlike traditional cheesesteaks, this version is carb-conscious and ideal for serving alongside fresh salad or a simple side of roasted vegetables.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 25 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef (or thinly sliced steak, such as ribeye)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 4 large eggs
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and set aside.
   
2. Cook the Beef:
   In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef or sliced steak and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.
   
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
   In the same skillet, add the onion, bell peppers, and mushrooms. Cook for 4-5 minutes, or until the vegetables are soft and the onions are translucent.
   
4. Season:
   Add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce to the skillet. Stir to combine, then return the beef to the skillet with the vegetables. Mix well.
   
5. Assemble the Casserole:
   Spread the beef and vegetable mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
   
6. Prepare the Egg Mixture:
   In a bowl, whisk together the eggs and heavy cream. Pour the mixture evenly over the beef and vegetable mixture.
   
7. Add Cheese:
   Sprinkle the shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese over the top of the casserole.
   
8. Bake:
   Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
   
9. Serve:
   Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Notes

• Variations: Add sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Cheese Options: Feel free to swap provolone for mozzarella or even add a sprinkle of Parmesan.