If you have ever fallen in love with the iconic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak sandwich but want a cozy, baked twist, then this Philly Cheesesteak Casserole Recipe is going to blow your mind. It beautifully combines tender, savory ground beef with sweet bell peppers, onions, and a luscious blend of cream cheese, sour cream, and melty provolone and mozzarella cheeses, all wrapped up in a creamy, custard-like base that sets perfectly in the oven. This dish captures the essence of a classic cheesesteak but transforms it into an easy, comforting casserole that’s perfect for weeknights, feeding a crowd, or satisfying a cheesy craving any day of the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting your ingredients ready for this Philly Cheesesteak Casserole Recipe is simple, but each item plays a crucial role in the final flavor, texture, and color of the dish. From the juicy ground beef to the melty cheeses and fresh veggies, every component works together to create that irresistible classic taste you love.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps to brown the beef beautifully and soften the vegetables by adding a subtle richness.
- 1 pound ground beef: The hearty base of the casserole, delivering that authentic Philly cheesesteak flavor.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the savory ingredients.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle heat to balance the richness of the cheese and beef.
- 1 green bell pepper (diced): Provides a crisp, fresh bite and vibrant green color to brighten the dish.
- 1 small yellow onion (diced): Brings natural sweetness and depth when sautéed with the peppers.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses a lovely aromatic punch that lifts the entire casserole.
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds that unmistakable umami tang classic to Philly cheesesteaks.
- 4 ounces cream cheese (softened): Brings creaminess and helps meld the veggies and beef together seamlessly.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Contributes tanginess and a velvety texture to the casserole base.
- 1 cup shredded provolone cheese: Melts into gooey strands with a mild, slightly smoky flavor.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Provides that stretchy, cheesy goodness everyone loves.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the custard base so the casserole sets perfectly in the oven.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Adds richness and helps create a luscious texture.
- Optional chopped parsley for garnish: A fresh green note to brighten every cheesy bite and add color.
How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients and Preheat Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F so it’s ready when your casserole is assembled. While the oven warms up, dice your green bell pepper and yellow onion, and mince the garlic. Having everything prepped in advance makes the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the ground beef along with salt and black pepper. Cook the beef, breaking it up with your spatula, until it’s nicely browned and no longer pink. Once browned, drain any excess fat to keep the casserole from becoming greasy.
Step 3: Sauté the Veggies
Into the same skillet, toss the diced bell pepper, onion, and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 5 minutes until tender and fragrant. This step lets the natural sweetness of the veggies develop, building layers of flavor for the casserole.
Step 4: Mix in Cream Cheese, Sour Cream, and Worcestershire
Stir in the Worcestershire sauce to give the mixture a savory kick. Reduce the heat to low and then fold in the softened cream cheese and sour cream, stirring constantly until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This rich base will tie all the elements together and keep every bite moist.
Step 5: Combine Eggs and Heavy Cream
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and heavy cream until fully blended and slightly frothy. This creates the custard-like layer that will set your Philly Cheesesteak Casserole Recipe beautifully once baked.
Step 6: Assemble and Bake the Casserole
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread the beef and vegetable mixture evenly across the bottom. Next, pour the egg and cream mixture over the top, letting it settle evenly. Finally, sprinkle the shredded provolone and mozzarella cheeses over everything. Bake uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes until the casserole is set and the cheese turns golden and bubbly. Let it cool for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
How to Serve Philly Cheesesteak Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness that cuts through the rich, cheesy flavors of this casserole. Feel free to add a dash of crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with light side dishes like a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables, which balance the richness perfectly. Roasted Brussels sprouts or a tangy coleslaw can also add a vibrant contrast to the creamy, savory casserole.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual portions in small ramekins or cast iron skillets to make each serving feel special. You can also layer the filling in a bread bowl or use low-carb tortillas to create Philly Cheesesteak Casserole wraps for a handheld delight that tastes just as amazing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your casserole, place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it a delicious next-day meal that heats up like a dream.
Freezing
If you want to prepare this dish in advance, you can assemble the casserole and freeze it before baking. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.
Reheating
Reheat the casserole slices in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to keep moisture in. Alternatively, microwave individual servings, covering them loosely to maintain creaminess without drying out.
FAQs
Can I use shaved steak instead of ground beef in the Philly Cheesesteak Casserole Recipe?
Absolutely! Shaved steak is a classic choice and will give a more authentic Philly cheesesteak texture. Just make sure to cook it quickly over high heat and keep the cooking time adjusted so it stays tender.
Is this casserole gluten-free?
Yes, this Philly Cheesesteak Casserole Recipe contains no gluten ingredients, making it naturally gluten-free. Just double-check any store-bought Worcestershire sauce or shredded cheese labels to be certain.
Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?
Definitely! Mushrooms, sliced jalapeños, or even spinach make great additions that complement the flavors well. Just sauté any additional veggies with the bell peppers and onions.
What cheese substitutions can I make?
You can swap provolone or mozzarella for pepper jack if you prefer a little spicy kick or use cheddar for sharper flavor. Just make sure to choose cheeses that melt well to keep that gooey texture.
How long does the casserole keep in the fridge?
Stored properly in an airtight container, this casserole will stay fresh and tasty for up to 4 days in the refrigerator. It’s perfect for enjoying multiple meals throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
There is something wonderfully satisfying about a dish that captures all the flavors of a Philly cheesesteak but in a comforting casserole form. This Philly Cheesesteak Casserole Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that combines rich, cheesy goodness with hearty beef and fresh veggies in the best way possible. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just craving something delicious at home, this recipe is sure to become a favorite go-to comfort food. Give it a try—you won’t regret it!
Print
Philly Cheesesteak Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb, Gluten Free
Description
This Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is a delicious low-carb twist on the classic sandwich, combining seasoned ground beef, sautéed bell peppers, onions, and a creamy cheese sauce baked to golden perfection. It’s an easy weeknight meal that is both satisfying and keto-friendly.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Cheese and Dairy
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded provolone cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Garnish
- Optional chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Cook beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef, salt, and black pepper, then cook until the beef is fully browned. Drain any excess fat to keep the casserole from being greasy.
- Sauté vegetables: To the browned beef, add diced green bell pepper, onion, and minced garlic. Sauté these ingredients for about 5 minutes until they soften and release their flavors.
- Add seasonings and dairy: Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, then reduce the heat to low. Mix in the softened cream cheese and sour cream until the mixture is creamy and smooth. Remove the skillet from heat after fully combined.
- Mix eggs and cream: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and heavy cream until well combined. This will help set the casserole during baking.
- Assemble casserole: Evenly spread the beef and vegetable mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour the egg and cream mixture over the top. Then sprinkle the shredded provolone and mozzarella cheese evenly across the top layer.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes until the casserole is set and the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Rest and garnish: Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes after baking to help it set further, then garnish with optional chopped parsley before slicing and serving.
Notes
- You can substitute ground beef with shaved steak or ground turkey for different protein options.
- Add mushrooms along with the vegetables for additional flavor and texture.
- Use pepper jack cheese instead of provolone or mozzarella for a spicier taste.
