If you have ever craved the savory satisfaction of a classic Philly cheesesteak but want something a little easier to serve to a crowd or enjoy as leftovers, this Philly Cheesesteak Casserole Recipe is your new best friend. It takes all the bold flavors you love—the juicy beef, tender bell peppers, melty cheese, and a creamy sauce—and bakes them into one irresistible dish that is both comforting and impressive. Whether you’re feeding a family dinner or hosting friends, this casserole delivers the Philly cheesesteak experience with less fuss and every bite bursting with that iconic taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Philly Cheesesteak Casserole Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each chosen to build rich texture, vibrant color, and deep flavor without overwhelming your pantry or your taste buds.
- 1 pound ground beef or thinly sliced ribeye: The star protein that keeps the dish hearty and satisfying, with ribeye offering a more authentic steak experience.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Perfect for sautéing the meat and veggies while adding a hint of fruity richness.
- 1 green bell pepper (diced): Adds a fresh crunch and a mild peppery bite that brightens every forkful.
- 1 red bell pepper (diced): Brings sweetness and a pop of color to enhance the casserole’s appeal.
- 1 medium onion (diced): Builds a savory base with a touch of natural sweetness when caramelized.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses an aromatic punch that elevates the entire dish.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Balances and enhances all the other flavors perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle kick and depth without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: Delivers umami and a subtle tang for that authentic Philly cheesesteak bite.
- 4 ounces cream cheese (softened): For creamy indulgence that binds everything together smoothly.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds tang and richness, making the casserole silky and luscious.
- 1 cup shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese: Melts gloriously on top with gooey goodness and mild flavor.
- 2 large eggs: Help set the casserole and contribute to a tender custard-like texture.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Makes the dish extra creamy and luscious as it bakes.
- Optional: parsley for garnish: Freshens the dish visually and adds a bright herbal note.
How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish so your casserole won’t stick and it comes out beautifully, ready for slicing and serving.
Step 2: Cook the Beef and Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add your ground beef (or thinly sliced ribeye if going authentic) and cook until nicely browned, breaking up any chunks with a spoon. This step builds the savory base that makes this casserole unforgettable. Toss in the diced green and red bell peppers, onion, garlic, salt, and black pepper. Let everything cook together until the veggies become tender—about 6 to 8 minutes. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce last for that perfect flavor punch.
Step 3: Mix in the Creamy Ingredients
Remove the skillet from heat and quickly fold in the softened cream cheese and sour cream. This creamy combo melts into the meat and veggies, fluffing the texture and enriching the flavor for that classic Philly cheesesteak feel with a smooth, dreamy finish.
Step 4: Prepare Egg and Cream Mixture
While your filling cools slightly, whisk together the eggs and heavy cream in a separate bowl until combined. This mixture will help bind all the ingredients together while keeping the casserole soft and custardy.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Spread the beef and pepper mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. Pour the egg and cream mixture over the top, making sure it settles evenly. Sprinkle shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese generously on top to create that inviting golden crust. Pop it into the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and the center is set. After baking, allow it to cool for 5 minutes to make slicing cleaner and the flavors to meld beautifully.
How to Serve Philly Cheesesteak Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top right before serving for a burst of color and a subtle herbal note that cuts through the richness delightfully. You can also add a few red pepper flakes if you love a little heat with your meal.
Side Dishes
This casserole shines best paired with a crisp side salad—think mixed greens with a light vinaigrette to balance the creamy, cheesy layers. Roasted or steamed veggies are also great companions to add texture contrast and keep things light on the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve spoonfuls of the Philly Cheesesteak Casserole Recipe over toasted hoagie rolls or crusty bread to turn it into a sloppy, delicious sandwich experience. Alternatively, layer it with cooked pasta to transform it into a layered baked ziti-style dish that still carries that classic cheesesteak vibe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover casserole in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It reheats beautifully and even deepens in flavor after a day stored, making it perfect for quick weeknight meals.
Freezing
This Philly Cheesesteak Casserole Recipe also freezes well. Cover the casserole tightly with foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave for about 2 minutes or place the whole casserole in a 350°F oven covered with foil until heated through. A quick broil at the end will melt the cheese back to that gorgeous golden top.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While provolone and mozzarella are traditional and melt well, cheddar or pepper jack can add a unique twist if you want a sharper or spicier flavor.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes, this Philly Cheesesteak Casserole Recipe is low in carbs and high in protein and fat, making it a great option for keto and low-carb diets when served without carb-heavy sides.
Can I substitute the ground beef with another meat?
Definitely. Thinly sliced ribeye will give a more authentic Philly cheesesteak taste, and ground turkey or chicken can be used for a lighter version, although the flavor will be milder.
What if I don’t have cream cheese?
You can substitute ricotta cheese or Greek yogurt in a pinch, but the texture and creaminess might slightly differ. Cream cheese really offers that rich, velvety base that binds everything perfectly.
How can I make it spicier?
Add diced jalapeños when cooking the peppers or sprinkle red pepper flakes into the cheese topping before baking to give a little heat that complements the savory flavors wonderfully.
Final Thoughts
This Philly Cheesesteak Casserole Recipe is a total winner when you want the comfort and excitement of a Philly cheesesteak but crave something more manageable and versatile for any meal situation. Easy to make, full of flavor, and endlessly adaptable, it’s bound to become a frequent request at your table. Give it a try—you’ll love how this casserole brings everyone together for seconds and smiles.
Print
Philly Cheesesteak Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 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. Featuring ground beef or thinly sliced ribeye cooked with colorful bell peppers, onions, and garlic, all combined in a creamy blend of cream cheese, sour cream, and eggs, then topped with melted provolone or mozzarella cheese. Baked to bubbly perfection, it’s an easy, comforting American main course perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound ground beef or thinly sliced ribeye
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings and Sauces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Dairy and Toppings
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Optional: parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Cook the Meat and Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks for even cooking. Add the diced green bell pepper, red bell pepper, diced onion, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Cook together until the vegetables are tender, about 6 to 8 minutes. Stir in 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce for added flavor.
- Mix in Creamy Ingredients: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the softened cream cheese and sour cream until fully melted and combined with the meat and vegetables, creating a creamy mixture.
- Prepare Egg Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 large eggs and 1/2 cup heavy cream until smooth and well combined.
- Assemble the Casserole: Evenly spread the beef and vegetable mixture in the prepared baking dish. Pour the egg and cream mixture evenly over the top. Sprinkle 1 cup shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese evenly over everything.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the center is set.
- Cool and Garnish: Let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired for freshness and color.
Notes
- This low-carb casserole works great on its own or served alongside a fresh side salad for a complete meal.
- For a more traditional Philly cheesesteak experience, try layering cooked pasta in the casserole or serving it over toasted hoagie rolls.
- You can swap provolone with mozzarella cheese depending on preference or availability.
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to ensure it mixes smoothly into the beef mixture.
