PHILLY CHEESESTEAK CASSEROLE

By Muhammad Faizan

Description

This Philly Cheesesteak Casserole transforms the classic sandwich into a warm, comforting, family-friendly baked dish. Packed with tender beef, sautéed peppers and onions, creamy cheese sauce, and topped with melted provolone, it captures everything you love about the iconic Philly cheesesteak—just easier to prep and perfect for weeknights or meal prep.

Ingredients

Beef & Vegetables

  • 1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef or shaved steak

  • 1 tbsp olive oil (if using lean beef/shaved steak)

  • 1 medium onion, sliced

  • 1 green bell pepper, sliced

  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced

  • 8 oz (225 g) mushrooms, sliced (optional but recommended)

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

  • 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)

  • ½ tsp black pepper

  • ½ tsp paprika

Creamy Sauce Mixture

  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened

  • ½ cup heavy cream or milk

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella or provolone

  • ½ cup beef broth

Topping

  • 6–8 slices provolone cheese

Optional Add-Ins

  • Cooked pasta (2 cups) for a heartier casserole

  • Hot cherry peppers

  • Dash of hot sauce

Instructions

1. Preheat

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a casserole dish (9×13 recommended).

2. Cook the Beef

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook ground beef or shaved steak until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.

3. Sauté Vegetables

Add onions, peppers, and mushrooms to the skillet. Sauté 6–7 minutes until soft. Add garlic and cook 1 more minute.

4. Season

Stir in Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and paprika.

5. Prepare the Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together cream cheese, heavy cream, beef broth, and shredded mozzarella/provolone until smooth.
Pour this mixture into the skillet with the beef/vegetables. Stir well to combine.

6. Assemble

Transfer everything to your casserole dish. Spread evenly.

7. Add Cheese Topping

Lay provolone slices on top to fully cover the mixture.

8. Bake

Bake 20–22 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted and lightly golden.

9. Rest & Serve

Let rest 5 minutes before slicing. Serve hot.

Serving Suggestions

  • 6 servings (as a main dish)

  • Serve with garlic bread, salad, roasted potatoes, or over rice or pasta.

Estimated Nutritional Information (per serving)

(Approximate, assuming 6 servings and no pasta added)

  • Calories: 355

  • Protein: 24g

  • Carbohydrates: 8g

  • Fat: 26g

  • Fiber: 2g

  • Sugars: 5g

  • Sodium: 680mg

(Values will vary based on ingredients.)

Benefits of This Recipe

  • High-protein meal: Great for sustaining energy and supporting muscle health.

  • Low-carb friendly: Works for keto and low-carb diets if pasta is omitted.

  • Easy make-ahead meal: Reheats well and great for meal prep.

  • Family-friendly: Familiar flavors that kids and adults love.

  • One-dish convenience: Minimal cleanup and simple steps.

Chef’s Notes & Tips

Beef Options

  • Shaved steak gives the most authentic Philly flavor.

  • Ground beef is easy, affordable, and works perfectly.

Vegetable Notes

  • Mushrooms deepen the savory flavor; skip if you’re not a fan.

  • Add jalapeños or cherry peppers for spice.

Cheese Choices

  • Provolone is classic.

  • American cheese melts beautifully if you prefer a creamier casserole.

  • Mozzarella adds good stretch.

Make-Ahead / Storage

  • Refrigerate: Up to 4 days.

  • Freeze: Up to 2–3 months (best without provolone topping; add before baking).

  • Reheat: 350°F for 15–20 minutes.

For a Heartier Casserole

Stir in 2 cups cooked pasta before baking.

Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

Q1: Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Yes! Use sliced chicken breast or ground chicken. Season slightly more because chicken is milder.

Q2: Can this be made low-fat?

Yes. Use light cream cheese and milk instead of heavy cream. Flavor will be a bit lighter but still delicious.

Q3: Can I prepare it ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble the casserole completely, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

Q4: What kind of cheese is best for this recipe?

Provolone for authenticity, mozzarella for stretch, American cheese for creaminess.

Q5: Can I add pasta directly into the casserole?

Yes—just make sure the pasta is already cooked before adding.

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