Love the rich, savory flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak sandwich? This Philly Cheesesteak Casserole delivers everything you adore—tender steak, caramelized onions and peppers, and gooey cheese—in an easy-to-make, family-friendly casserole. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, it’s comfort food at its finest!
Why Our Philly Cheesesteak Casserole Is the Best
This Philly Cheesesteak Casserole transforms a beloved sandwich into a hearty dish that’s ideal for sharing. It features tender slices of sirloin steak, creamy cheese, and sautéed veggies baked together into a bubbling, golden masterpiece. Plus, it’s easy to prep, bake, and store, making it a great option for busy households.
Ingredients Notes Philly Cheesesteak Casserole
Here’s why every ingredient plays an important role in delivering bold, authentic Philly cheesesteak flavor:
- 1 tablespoon butter: Adds richness and helps caramelize the steak and vegetables.
- 2 pounds sirloin steak (sliced): Provides a tender, flavorful protein base. Shaved steak is also an excellent alternative.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt & 1/4 teaspoon pepper: Seasonings that enhance the natural flavors of the steak and veggies.
- 2 large bell peppers (sliced): A classic cheesesteak addition for sweetness and crunch.
- 1 large onion (chopped): Adds depth and sweetness when caramelized.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the dish with a subtle, savory aroma.
- 1/2 cup cream cheese: Creates a creamy, velvety base for the casserole.
- 1/4 cup + 2 tablespoons half-and-half or cream: Helps make the casserole rich and indulgent.
- 1 cup cheddar cheese (divided): Adds sharp, bold flavor to the dish.
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese (divided): Contributes stretchy, gooey, cheesy goodness.
Pro Tip: For an extra kick, swap the mozzarella for pepper jack cheese!
Kitchen Tools Needed Philly Cheesesteak Casserole
- Non-stick skillet or pan
- 9 x 13-inch baking dish
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Oven-safe mitts
- Mixing bowl (optional for combining cheese)
How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Casserole
Follow these simple steps to create this mouthwatering casserole in no time:
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9 x 13-inch baking dish and set aside.
2. Cook the Steak
In a non-stick skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the sliced sirloin steak and season with salt and pepper. Cook the steak until no longer pink, then transfer it to a plate.
3. Sauté the Vegetables
Add the sliced bell peppers, chopped onion, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and lightly caramelized.
4. Make the Creamy Base
Stir the cream cheese and half-and-half into the skillet with the vegetables. Mix until the cream cheese is fully melted and the mixture is smooth. Let it simmer for 5 minutes to thicken slightly.
5. Combine Everything
Return the cooked steak to the skillet and mix it with the vegetable and cream cheese mixture. Stir in half of the cheddar cheese and half of the mozzarella cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce.
6. Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the cheesesteak mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly, then sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheeses over the top.
7. Bake
Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and golden.
8. Serve
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Pair with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted veggies for a complete meal!
How To Store Philly Cheesesteak Casserole
- To Store: Once cooled, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for 4-5 days.
- To Freeze: Place the cooled casserole in a shallow, freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months.
- To Reheat: Reheat the casserole in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes, or warm it in a skillet over medium heat. You can also microwave it in 30-second intervals until heated through.
Philly Cheesesteak Casserole Variations
- Keto-Friendly: Swap the cream cheese for mascarpone and skip the bell peppers to reduce carbs.
- Chicken Version: Use cooked chicken breast or shredded rotisserie chicken instead of steak for a lighter twist.
- Mushroom Add-In: Add sautéed mushrooms for an earthy, umami flavor.
- Provolone Substitute: Replace mozzarella with provolone cheese for a more authentic Philly cheesesteak experience.
- Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a spicier casserole.
What To Serve With Philly Cheesesteak Casserole
Pair this casserole with a fresh green salad or roasted asparagus for a balanced meal. For something more indulgent, serve it alongside garlic bread or crispy fries. A cold beer or iced tea complements the rich, cheesy flavors beautifully.
Top Tips for Perfect Philly Cheesesteak Casserole
- Thinly Slice the Steak: Thin slices cook quickly and remain tender in the casserole.
- Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese may not melt as smoothly due to added anti-caking agents.
- Don’t Overcook the Steak: Cook it just until it’s no longer pink to avoid a chewy texture.
- Season the Veggies Well: Bell peppers and onions absorb flavor beautifully, so don’t skimp on seasoning.
- Broil for a Golden Top: For a crispier cheese topping, broil the casserole for 2-3 minutes after baking.
Helpful Notes
- If using a fattier cut of steak, be sure to drain excess grease before combining it with the vegetables.
- To save time, you can use pre-cooked steak or leftover roast beef.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Gordon Ramsay: Always rest cooked steak for a few minutes before adding it to your casserole to retain its juiciness.
- Ina Garten: Use high-quality cheese for a deeper, richer flavor.
- Rachael Ray: Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the steak for extra depth and umami.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use ground beef instead of steak?
Yes, ground beef works well as a substitute and makes the dish more budget-friendly.
2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
3. What’s the best cheese for this casserole?
Cheddar, mozzarella, and provolone are all excellent choices. Feel free to mix and match!
4. Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, but thaw and drain them first to avoid excess water in the casserole.
5. How do I prevent the casserole from being too greasy?
Use lean sirloin steak and drain any excess fat after cooking the meat.
This Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is a comforting, cheesy dish that brings all the flavors of the iconic sandwich to your dinner table. It’s easy to make, endlessly customizable, and guaranteed to please the whole family. Enjoy!
