Love the flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak but looking for an easier, family-friendly way to enjoy it? This Philly Cheese Steak Casserole takes everything you love about the iconic sandwich—savory beef, sautéed peppers and onions, gooey melted cheese—and turns it into a hearty, comforting casserole. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, game day, or when you need a quick and delicious meal that everyone will love. Let’s dive into this simple recipe that’s packed with flavor and sure to satisfy!
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- Ground beef (1 ½ lbs)
- Olive oil (1 tbsp)
- Onion (1 large, diced)
- Green bell pepper (1 large, diced)
- Red bell pepper (1 large, diced)
- Mushrooms (1 cup, sliced)
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced)
- Worcestershire sauce (1 tbsp)
- Salt (1 tsp)
- Black pepper (½ tsp)
- Cream cheese (4 oz, softened)
- Provolone cheese (2 cups, shredded or 8 slices)
- Mozzarella cheese (1 cup, shredded)
- Eggs (2 large)
- Milk (1 cup)
- Sub or hoagie rolls (3, cut into bite-sized pieces)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a little olive oil.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces with a spoon. Drain excess fat from the skillet and set the beef aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the diced onion, green bell pepper, red bell pepper, sliced mushrooms, and minced garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes. Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet and stir in the Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Remove from heat.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded provolone, shredded mozzarella, eggs, and milk. Mix until smooth and creamy. Add the beef and vegetable mixture to the bowl and stir to combine.
Spread the bite-sized pieces of sub or hoagie rolls evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Pour the beef and cheese mixture over the bread, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the top is golden brown.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and enjoy this comforting twist on a Philly cheesesteak!
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve this casserole with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or crispy fries for a complete meal.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To freeze, allow the casserole to cool completely, then wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Helpful Notes
- For a spicier version, add sliced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- If you prefer a leaner option, substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken.
- You can use any cheese you prefer—cheddar, American, or even Swiss would work well in this casserole.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
Bobby Flay suggests adding a splash of hot sauce or a drizzle of cheese sauce on top for an extra kick.
Ree Drummond recommends toasting the bread pieces lightly before adding them to the casserole for extra texture.
Gordon Ramsay advises using a mix of both sweet and hot peppers for a balance of flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Can I use steak strips instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Thinly sliced ribeye or sirloin steak will work great. Sear the steak strips before adding them to the casserole.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free bread or rolls and ensure that all other ingredients, like Worcestershire sauce, are gluten-free.
Can I add more vegetables?
Yes, feel free to add sliced zucchini, spinach, or tomatoes for added flavor and nutrition.
What if I don’t have provolone cheese?
Substitute provolone with Swiss, mozzarella, or even pepper jack cheese for a different twist.
How do I prevent the casserole from being soggy?
Use day-old bread or toast the bread pieces slightly before layering them in the casserole.
Can I freeze this casserole before baking?
Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and freeze. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, use dairy-free cheese alternatives and a non-dairy milk substitute to make the recipe dairy-free.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is done when the top is golden brown, the cheese is bubbly, and the center is set.
What can I serve with this casserole?
Serve with a side of roasted potatoes, coleslaw, or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
Enjoy your Philly Cheese Steak Casserole—a delicious and easy way to enjoy the classic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak in a cozy, comforting dish!
