Looking for a comforting, delicious dish that combines all the cheesy, savory goodness of a classic Philly cheesesteak but in casserole form? Well, trust me, you’re going to love this Philly Cheesesteak Casserole! It’s the ultimate cozy meal that delivers all the flavors of a classic Philly sandwich, but in an easy-to-make, one-dish wonder. Every bite is packed with tender beef, melty cheese, and perfectly seasoned peppers and onions. This recipe is totally foolproof and perfect for when you’re craving something hearty and satisfying. Plus, it’s a total crowd-pleaser—kids and adults alike will be asking for seconds. So, grab your apron and let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love Philly Cheesesteak Casserole
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile: Perfect for busy weeknights or as a standout dish at gatherings. Imagine coming home after a long day, knowing you can whip up something delicious and comforting in no time. Or picture serving this at a party, where guests will be asking for the recipe before the night’s over!
Budget-Friendly: Uses ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. No need for fancy or hard-to-find items—this dish proves that simple, everyday ingredients can create extraordinary flavors. It’s ideal when you’re trying to stick to a budget but still want something satisfying.
Quick and Easy: This casserole is all about simplicity. You won’t need to spend hours in the kitchen, and it’s designed to be foolproof—anyone can make this, even if you’re a kitchen rookie. Just layer, bake, and enjoy!
Customizable: You can totally make this your own! Love extra spice? Throw in a pinch of cayenne pepper or some hot sauce. Want it milder for the kiddos? You can easily adjust the seasoning to suit everyone’s tastes.
Crowd-Pleasing: This casserole is a hit with both kids and adults, making it a surefire winner at the dinner table. It’s the kind of dish that makes everyone at the table smile and keeps them coming back for more!
Ingredients
Here’s the magic of this casserole—it’s made with just a few pantry staples, but the result is nothing short of extraordinary. Let’s break it down:
Ground Beef: The hearty base of this casserole, the beef gets perfectly browned and packs in all the savory, juicy flavors we love in a Philly cheesesteak. If you’re feeling fancy, feel free to swap for ground chicken or turkey for a lighter option!
Onions: Sweet, caramelized onions are a key part of the flavor profile. They bring just the right amount of sweetness to balance the richness of the beef and cheese.
Bell Peppers: These bring in a vibrant pop of color and a mild, sweet crunch that’s the perfect counterpart to the tender beef.
Cheese: Of course, it wouldn’t be a Philly cheesesteak without plenty of gooey, melted cheese. A combo of provolone and mozzarella is just right, creating that perfect melty texture that everyone loves.
Bread: We’re not talking traditional rolls here, but cubed bread acts as the base, soaking up all those meaty juices and cheese to create the perfect casserole bite.
Seasonings: A simple blend of garlic, salt, and pepper, along with a touch of oregano, bring everything together with the perfect amount of seasoning.
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. This ensures that your casserole bakes evenly and achieves that perfect golden, bubbly top.
Sauté the Veggies: In a large pan, sauté your onions and bell peppers until they’re soft and just starting to caramelize. This step infuses the dish with amazing flavor, making it hard to resist!
Brown the Beef: Add your ground beef to the pan, breaking it up as it cooks. Let it get nice and brown, then season with garlic, salt, pepper, and oregano. This is the heart of the casserole, so don’t rush it!
Assemble the Casserole: In a greased baking dish, layer the bread cubes, followed by the beef and veggie mixture. Then top it with a generous amount of cheese. Repeat the layering process if you want extra cheesy goodness.
Bake to Perfection: Pop the casserole in the oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is beautifully golden.
Let it Set: After baking, let the casserole sit for a few minutes to set. It’s tempting to dive right in, but trust me—letting it cool slightly ensures the layers stay intact.
Serve and Enjoy: Slice up this cheesy, savory masterpiece, and serve warm. Whether it’s on its own or paired with a simple side salad, it’s going to be the star of the meal.
Nutrition Facts
Servings:1 portion
Calories per serving: 400 kcal
Preparation Time
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
How to Serve Philly Cheesesteak Casserole
This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
Fresh Salads: Pair it with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the dish’s rich flavors.
Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up any delicious sauces or juices. Garlic bread or a simple baguette works wonderfully.
Vegetable Sides: Roasted vegetables, like carrots, zucchini, or asparagus, are excellent pairings that add color and nutrients to the meal.
As a Standalone: Sometimes, this dish is hearty enough to enjoy on its own. Simply garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a finishing touch.
Presentation matters too! Serving the dish in a beautifully arranged platter can elevate the dining experience. Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil for that extra pop.
Additional Tips
Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
Prep Ahead: Save time by chopping and measuring ingredients the night before. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge to keep them fresh.
Spice It Up: Experiment with spices like cumin, turmeric, or chili flakes to give the dish a unique twist.
Dietary Adjustments: If you’re catering to specific dietary needs, swap ingredients like regular bread for gluten-free alternatives or dairy products for plant-based options.
Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. Reheat gently in the oven to preserve the dish’s texture and flavor.
Double the Batch: This recipe freezes beautifully, so consider making a double batch. Having a homemade meal ready in the freezer can be a lifesaver on busy days.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I substitute the beef with another protein?
A1: Absolutely! You can swap the ground beef for ground chicken, turkey, or even a plant-based protein if you’re looking for a lighter or vegetarian version.
Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A2: Yes! You can assemble the casserole a day ahead and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready, just bake it up as instructed.
Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best results.
Q4: Can I freeze this dish?
A4: Yes! Freeze it before baking for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as usual.
Q5: What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
A5: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes, or until warmed through.
Q6: Can I double the recipe?
A6: Definitely! Just make sure you have a larger baking dish to accommodate the extra serving size.
Q7: Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?
A7: Yes, simply swap the bread for a gluten-free variety and make sure to choose gluten-free broth and other ingredients as needed.
Q8: What side dishes go well with this recipe?
A8: Some great options include mashed potatoes, sautéed green beans, or a simple rice pilaf.
Q9: How can I make this dish healthier?
A9: You can swap for leaner ground beef, use whole grain bread, or load it up with extra veggies.
Q10: What’s the best cookware to use for this recipe?
A10: A 9×13-inch baking dish works perfectly for this casserole, ensuring everything cooks evenly.
Conclusion
This Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is everything you love about the classic sandwich, but with the ease and comfort of a casserole. It’s cheesy, flavorful, and totally satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just craving something hearty, this dish will not disappoint. Trust me, it’s going to be your new favorite go-to dinner!
PrintPhilly Cheesesteak Casserole
This Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is the ultimate comfort food! Packed with tender steak, sautéed peppers, onions, and creamy melted cheese, this casserole is sure to please any crowd.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop and Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Calorie
Ingredients
- 2 pounds steak, thinly sliced
- 1 cup green bell peppers, sliced into strips
- 1 cup red bell peppers, sliced into strips
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 ounces cream cheese (½ a block)
- Provolone cheese, sliced (to cover the casserole)
- ½ cup beef broth
- 1 cup small onion, sliced into strips
- 2 cups mushrooms, sliced (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and thinly sliced steak. Cook until browned, making sure to drain any excess grease.
- Season the steak with garlic powder, onion powder, and chili powder, then remove it from the skillet and set it aside.
- In the same skillet, add the bell peppers, mushrooms (if using), and onions. Stir occasionally and cook until softened.
- Add the cream cheese, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth to the skillet. Stir until the cream cheese is fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Return the cooked steak to the skillet and stir until everything is well combined.
- Transfer the mixture into a casserole dish and top with slices of provolone cheese, covering the whole casserole.
- Bake at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or until the cheese has melted and is bubbly.
- Serve and enjoy your Philly Cheesesteak Casserole!
Notes
- You can add extra toppings like shredded cheese for a cheesier casserole.
- Feel free to swap the provolone cheese for mozzarella or Swiss cheese if desired.
- Mushrooms are optional but add great flavor and texture to the casserole.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 90mg