Philly Cheesesteak Casserole: A Comfort Food Twist on a Classic Favorite

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the hearty, savory goodness of a Philly cheesesteak. But what if you could enjoy all the flavors of this iconic sandwich in a convenient, family-friendly casserole form? Enter the Philly Cheesesteak Casserole—a delicious, easy-to-make dish that combines the rich flavors of tender steak, melted cheese, and caramelized onions in one satisfying bake. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or simply craving a cozy meal, this casserole is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation.

In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about making this mouthwatering dish, from the ingredients and step-by-step instructions to tips for customization and storage. Plus, we’ll explore why this casserole is a great option for busy weeknights, potlucks, or even meal prep. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

1. All the Flavor, None of the Fuss: This casserole captures the essence of a traditional Philly cheesesteak without the need for sandwich rolls or messy assembly. It’s a one-dish wonder that’s perfect for busy cooks.
2. Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy, meaty goodness of this dish. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to disappear quickly at the dinner table.
3. Customizable: Whether you want to add extra veggies, switch up the cheese, or make it low-carb, this recipe is highly adaptable to suit your preferences.
4. Meal Prep Magic: This casserole reheats beautifully, making it an excellent option for meal prep or leftovers.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this Philly Cheesesteak Casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs (680g) thinly sliced steak (ribeye, sirloin, or flank steak work well)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 8 oz (225g) mushrooms, sliced (optional)
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 2 cups shredded provolone cheese
• 1 cup beef broth (low-sodium preferred)
• 2 cups cooked rice or cauliflower rice (optional, for a heartier casserole)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
• Fresh parsley or chives (for garnish, optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with oil or butter and set it aside.

Step 2: Cook the Steak

1. Warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the thinly sliced steak in a single layer, seasoning it with salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the steak is browned but still slightly pink in the center. Transfer the steak from the skillet to a plate and set it aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

1. In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil.
2. Add the sliced onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms (if using). Sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and caramelized.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently.

Step 4: Combine the Ingredients

1. Add the cooked steak back to the skillet with the vegetables.
2. Pour in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, and heavy cream. Mix everything together and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
3. If you’re using rice or cauliflower rice, spread it evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Otherwise, you can skip this step for a lower-carb version.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

1. Transfer the steak and vegetable mixture into the baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
2. Sprinkle the shredded provolone cheese (or your cheese of choice) over the top, followed by the grated Parmesan cheese.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

1. Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are lightly golden.
2. For an extra cheesy crust, you can broil the casserole for 1-2 minutes at the end—just keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

1. Take the casserole out of the oven and allow it to cool for 5-10 minutes.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives, if desired, and serve warm.

Tips for the Perfect Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

• Slice the Steak Thinly: For the best texture, slice the steak as thinly as possible. You can also request your butcher to handle this step for you.
• Caramelize the Onions: Take your time sautéing the onions and peppers. Caramelizing them adds a depth of flavor that elevates the dish.
• Choose Your Cheese Wisely: Provolone is the classic choice for Philly cheesesteak, but you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, cheddar, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick.
• Make It Low-Carb: Skip the rice and use cauliflower rice instead for a keto-friendly version of this casserole.
• Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to toss in other vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or jalapeños for added nutrition and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is a complete meal on its own, but you can pair it with a few side dishes to round out your dinner:

• Garlic Bread: A slice of warm, buttery garlic bread is the perfect accompaniment to soak up any cheesy sauce.
• Side Salad: A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the rich casserole.
• Roasted Vegetables: Try serving it with roasted broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts for a healthy side.

Storing and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: This casserole freezes well. Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, or transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I substitute ground beef for the steak?

Yes, ground beef can be used as a more budget-friendly alternative. Simply brown the ground beef and drain any excess fat before adding it to the casserole.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce or coconut aminos and ensure that all other ingredients (like Worcestershire sauce) are gluten-free certified.

Can I prepare this casserole in advance?

Absolutely! Put the casserole together up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes before placing it in the oven.

Final Thoughts

The Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is a delightful twist on a beloved classic, offering all the flavors you love in a convenient, shareable format. Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting a potluck, or simply craving some comfort food, this dish is sure to hit the spot. With its simple ingredients, easy preparation, and endless customization options, it’s a recipe you’ll turn to again and again.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a cheesy, savory masterpiece that’s as satisfying as it is delicious. Happy cooking!