Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

There’s something magical about turning a classic sandwich into a warm, bubbling casserole. This Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is hearty, cheesy, and the kind of dish that makes the whole house smell irresistible. Imagine tender beef, sautéed peppers and onions, creamy sauce, and gooey melted cheese all baked together into comfort food perfection. It’s weeknight dinner made easy, yet indulgent enough to serve when company comes over.

I first fell in love with Philly cheesesteaks while traveling through Philadelphia, where I had my first taste of the iconic sandwich from a busy corner shop. The combination of savory beef, caramelized onions, and creamy melted cheese was unforgettable. Back home, I wanted a way to recreate those flavors without standing over the stove making individual sandwiches—and that’s how this casserole became a family favorite.

What makes this recipe shine is how approachable it is. It brings the flavor and comfort of a cheesesteak without needing fresh rolls, and it’s much easier to feed a crowd. The casserole format also means you can prep it ahead, refrigerate, and bake when ready. Whether you’re serving a hungry family or bringing a dish to a potluck, this Philly Cheesesteak Casserole will disappear fast.

This recipe is also highly customizable. You can make it low-carb, double up the veggies, or use different cheeses depending on your preference. No matter how you adapt it, the flavors are classic, rich, and deeply satisfying.

Why You’ll Love It

  • All the flavor of a Philly cheesesteak, but in an easy casserole form.

  • Crowd-friendly and perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or gatherings.

  • Easy to make ahead and reheat for busy days.

  • Flexible with ingredients—adjust the cheese, meat, or veggies to your taste.

  • Comfort food at its best: creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying.

Ingredient Notes & Details

  • Ground beef (or shaved steak): Ground beef makes this recipe quick and easy, but if you can find shaved ribeye, it takes the casserole to the next level.

  • Bell peppers: Green is classic, but red or yellow add a touch of sweetness. Slice them thin so they cook evenly.

  • Onions: Sweet or yellow onions caramelize beautifully and add authentic flavor.

  • Garlic: Freshly minced garlic enhances the savory depth.

  • Cream cheese: Adds creaminess and binds the filling together.

  • Worcestershire sauce: Just a splash deepens the flavor and gives a subtle umami kick.

  • Eggs & milk: These help the casserole set without becoming dry.

  • Provolone cheese: The most authentic choice for a Philly cheesesteak, but mozzarella or even American cheese can work.

  • Optional toppings: Fresh parsley, pickled jalapeños, or a drizzle of cheese sauce for extra indulgence.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.

  2. Cook the beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned. Drain excess grease.

  3. Sauté the vegetables: Add onions and peppers to the skillet with the beef. Cook until softened and slightly caramelized, about 5–7 minutes. Stir in garlic and Worcestershire sauce.

  4. Mix in cream cheese: Reduce the heat and stir in cream cheese until melted and creamy. Remove from heat.

  5. Prepare egg mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and milk. This will help the casserole hold its shape.

  6. Assemble: Spread the beef and vegetable mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Pour the egg mixture over the top. Layer provolone cheese slices (or shredded cheese) evenly across the surface.

  7. Bake: Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly and the casserole is set in the center.

  8. Serve: Let cool slightly before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted veggies.

FAQ

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble everything up to the baking step, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving.

Can I freeze Philly Cheesesteak Casserole?
Absolutely. Bake it first, let it cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven until hot.

Can I use chicken instead of beef?
Yes, ground chicken or shredded rotisserie chicken works well for a lighter variation.

Do I have to use cream cheese?
No, but it adds richness. You can substitute with ricotta or leave it out for a slightly less creamy version.

What cheese is best for this recipe?
Provolone is traditional, but mozzarella melts beautifully too. For a gooey, creamy twist, use half provolone and half white American cheese.

Is this recipe low-carb?
Yes! Since there’s no bread involved, it’s naturally low-carb and keto-friendly.

Storage Tips

  • Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

  • Freezer: Freeze baked casserole portions for quick meals later—up to 3 months.

  • Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or microwave individual servings for convenience.

Variations

  • Low-Carb Version: Stick with ground beef, peppers, and cheese—skip the egg mixture if you want it more like a skillet meal.

  • Loaded Cheesesteak: Add mushrooms, jalapeños, or even diced pickles for extra flavor.

  • Cheesier Twist: Layer shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack along with provolone.

  • With Pasta: Stir in cooked penne or egg noodles before baking for a cheesesteak pasta casserole.

  • Spicy Version: Use pepper jack cheese and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick.

Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

This Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is a hearty twist on the classic sandwich—tender beef, sautéed peppers and onions, and plenty of melted cheese baked together in a comforting casserole. An easy, family-friendly dinner full of flavor!
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Prep Time: 15minutes 
Cook Time: 35minutes 
Servings: 

Ingredients

  • 1 ½ lbs ground beef or shaved steak
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 1 green bell pepper diced
  • 1 red bell pepper diced
  • 8 oz mushrooms sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika optional
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 8 oz cream cheese softened
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup shredded provolone cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 baking dish.
  • Cook the beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until no longer pink. Drain excess grease.
  • Add vegetables: Stir in onion, bell peppers, mushrooms, and garlic. Cook until softened, about 5–6 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and Worcestershire sauce. Remove from heat and spread evenly into the prepared baking dish.
  • Make creamy mixture: In a bowl, whisk together cream cheese, mayonnaise, and eggs until smooth.
  • Assemble: Spread the creamy mixture over the beef and vegetables. Sprinkle provolone and mozzarella on top.
  • Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, until the top is bubbly and golden.
  • Serve: Let rest 5 minutes before serving. Great with a side salad, crusty bread, or even served on toasted hoagie rolls.

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