Philly Cheesesteak Casserole: All the Classic Flavors, Baked to Perfection!
By Jason Griffith
Love the iconic flavors of a Philly Cheesesteak but craving it in a comforting, easy-to-eat casserole form? This Philly Cheesesteak Casserole delivers! It transforms lean ground beef, tender bell peppers, and savory onions into a hearty bake, topped with gooey provolone cheese and a rich, eggy custard. It’s all the deliciousness of a classic sandwich, deconstructed into a simple, satisfying meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Why I Love This Recipe
I’m a huge fan of dishes that bring big flavors with minimal fuss, and this Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is a prime example. What I absolutely adore about it is how it captures the essence of a classic Philly cheesesteak—that savory beef, sweet peppers and onions, and melted provolone—and bakes it into a cohesive, comforting dish. The addition of the egg and cream mixture creates a wonderful richness that ties everything together, making it incredibly satisfying. It’s hearty, flavorful, and a fantastic way to enjoy those beloved flavors without the need for rolls or a tricky griddle.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ pounds lean ground beef
- 2 bell peppers (any color, or a mix), cored and cut into bite-sized pieces
- ½ yellow onion, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon seasoned salt (such as Lawry’s)
- 4 slices provolone cheese
- 4 large eggs
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional, for a subtle kick)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Non-stick cooking spray (for baking dish)
Swaps and Notes
- Ground Beef: While lean ground beef is specified, you can also use thinly sliced steak (like ribeye or sirloin, browned quickly) for a more authentic “cheesesteak” texture, though it will change the dish from a true casserole. Ground turkey or chicken could also be used for a lighter option.
- Bell Peppers: Any color bell pepper works! A mix of green, red, and yellow adds visual appeal and varied sweetness.
- Onion: Yellow onion provides a good balance of sweetness and sharpness. A sweet onion (like Vidalia) would also be delicious.
- Provolone Cheese: Provolone cheese slices melt beautifully and are traditional for cheesesteaks. You can also use shredded mozzarella, or a blend of mozzarella and provolone.
- Seasoned Salt: This is a great shortcut for flavor. If you don’t have it, you can substitute with a mix of garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and regular salt to taste.
- Hot Sauce: The hot sauce adds a subtle tang and a hint of warmth. Adjust the amount to your preference or omit it entirely.
- Worcestershire Sauce: This adds a crucial umami depth to the egg mixture. Don’t skip it!
- Mushrooms: Sautéed sliced mushrooms could be added with the peppers and onions for an “everything” cheesesteak flavor.
Instructions:
1. Preheat Oven & Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray a 9×9-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray to ensure easy cleanup and prevent sticking.
2. Prep Vegetables: Cut the bell peppers and yellow onion into bite-sized pieces. Aim for uniform sizes so they cook evenly. Mince the garlic clove.
3. Cook Ground Beef & Veggies: Add the lean ground beef to a large skillet or Dutch oven. Cook over medium heat, breaking up the beef with a spoon or spatula as it cooks. Continue to cook until the beef is mostly browned but still has a little pink remaining. At this stage, add the prepared bell peppers, onion, minced garlic, and 1 teaspoon seasoned salt to the skillet. Continue to cook, stirring often, until the beef is fully cooked through and no longer pink, and the vegetables have softened slightly (they’ll continue to cook in the oven).
4. Drain & Transfer to Dish: Carefully drain any excess grease from the skillet. Pour the cooked ground beef and vegetable mixture evenly into the prepared 9×9-inch baking dish, spreading it out.
5. Add Provolone Cheese: Tear the provolone cheese slices into smaller pieces and place them evenly over the top of the beef and vegetable mixture in the baking dish. The cheese will melt beautifully over the top.
6. Prepare Egg Mixture: In a separate medium mixing bowl, add the 4 large eggs, ¼ cup heavy cream, 1 teaspoon hot sauce (if using), and 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce. Whisk these ingredients together very well until fully combined and slightly frothy.
7. Pour & Bake: Carefully pour the egg mixture evenly over the beef and cheese in the baking dish. Gently tilt the dish if needed to ensure the egg mixture distributes evenly into all the nooks and crannies. Place the dish into the preheated oven. Bake for 35 minutes, or until the egg mixture is set, and the top is lightly golden brown. The center should feel firm when gently pressed.
8. Rest & Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven. Let it sit for 5 minutes before slicing into squares and serving. This resting time allows the casserole to set further and makes for cleaner cuts. Enjoy your delicious Philly Cheesesteak Casserole!
Tips for Success
- Drain Grease: Draining the grease from the ground beef is important for a less oily casserole.
- Don’t Overcook Veggies in Skillet: The vegetables will continue to soften in the oven, so you just want them slightly tender before baking.
- Whisk Eggs Well: A well-whisked egg mixture ensures a smooth, consistent custard throughout the casserole.
- Room Temperature Ingredients (Optional but helpful): For the egg mixture, using room temperature eggs and cream can help them combine more smoothly.
- Test for Doneness: The casserole is done when the egg is set, and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is a hearty, complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a few classic additions:
- Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty rolls or garlic bread for dipping into the flavorful casserole.
- Side Salad: A light green salad with a simple vinaigrette can cut through the richness of the casserole.
- Fries: Classic French fries or onion rings would make for a true “cheesesteak” experience.
- Condiments: Offer extra hot sauce, ketchup, or even a side of cheese sauce for dipping.
- For other comforting and cheesy casserole or dip ideas, explore these Chefmaniac.com favorites:
- This Crockpot Nacho Dip Is the Reason I Never Have Leftovers
- How I Turned a Classic Sandwich into the Ultimate Cheesy Hot Dip
- This Mexican Chicken and Rice Casserole Is My Favorite One-Pan Dinner That’s Always a Hit
- This Dorito Casserole Is My Favorite Weeknight Dinner Shortcut
- This Instant Pot Lasagna Is My Favorite Way to Make Comfort Food Fast
Storage and Leftover Tips
This Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is fantastic for making ahead or enjoying as leftovers.
- Make Ahead: You can assemble the beef and vegetable mixture (steps 1-5) up to a day in advance. Store in the prepared baking dish, covered in the refrigerator. Whisk the egg mixture just before baking and pour over.
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave until warmed through. For better texture and to retain some crispness on top, reheat in a preheated oven or toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) until bubbly and heated through.
- Freezing: This casserole freezes well. Once completely cooled, cut into individual portions and wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Final Thoughts
This Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is a true comfort food delight, bringing all the beloved flavors of a classic cheesesteak into a convenient, crowd-pleasing bake. It’s hearty, incredibly flavorful, and perfect for a satisfying family dinner. Get ready to enjoy this cheesy, meaty goodness!
What are your favorite classic sandwiches to transform into a casserole, or do you have a go-to comfort food dish? Share your ideas and tips in the comments below, and don’t forget to follow Chefmaniac for more exciting and delicious recipes!
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