Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

If you love the iconic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak but want a comforting, easy-to-make dinner that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers, this Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is your new go-to recipe. It captures all the savory goodness of the classic sandwich in a cheesy, baked casserole form that’s both hearty and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or hosting a casual get-together, this dish is sure to become a favorite.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This Philly Cheesesteak Casserole takes everything you love about the traditional sandwich and transforms it into a simple, fuss-free casserole. No need to worry about slicing rolls or assembling individual sandwiches—everything bakes together in one dish, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of tender, thinly sliced beef, sautéed onions, and bell peppers layered with gooey cheese creates a flavor-packed experience in every bite.

What makes this recipe especially great is its versatility and ease. You can prep it ahead of time, customize it with your favorite veggies or cheese, and it reheats beautifully. Plus, using -friendly beef and cheese options means it’s suitable for a wide range of dietary preferences without compromising on taste.

Ingredients

• 1 lb thinly sliced beef (such as sirloin or ribeye)
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups shredded provolone cheese (or mozzarella for a milder flavor)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 cups cooked white rice or cooked pasta (optional, for extra heartiness)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil

How To Make Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Beef and Vegetables

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced beef and season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the sliced onions, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and slightly caramelized. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Remove from heat.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to form a roux. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking to avoid lumps. Continue to cook and whisk until the sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes.

Remove the sauce from the heat and stir in the Worcestershire sauce. Gradually add the shredded provolone and cheddar cheese, stirring until completely melted and smooth. Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef, sautéed vegetables, and cooked rice or pasta if using. Pour the cheese sauce over the mixture and gently stir to combine everything evenly.

Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly. For an extra cheesy top, sprinkle a little more shredded cheese on top.

Step 4: Bake

Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until it is bubbly and golden brown on top. Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving to allow the casserole to set and make serving easier.

Expert Tips

• Use thinly sliced beef to mimic the texture of Philly cheesesteak meat—ask your butcher to slice it for you or freeze the beef slightly before slicing.
• Don’t skip the Worcestershire sauce in the cheese sauce; it adds a subtle depth of flavor that really brings the dish together.
• If you want a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the vegetables.
• Feel free to swap the provolone with mozzarella or fontina depending on your cheese preference.
• Make sure to let the casserole rest after baking so it doesn’t fall apart when you serve.
• To keep the vegetables crisp yet tender, avoid overcooking them during the sauté step.
• Use a non-stick or well-greased baking dish to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Variations and Customizations

• Vegetarian version: Replace the beef with sautéed mushrooms or plant-based beef alternatives for a meatless option.
• Extra veggies: Add sliced mushrooms, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes to boost the veggie content.
• Spicy kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the cheese sauce for some heat.
• Different cheese blends: Experiment with sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or gouda for unique flavor profiles.
• Low-carb option: Skip the rice or pasta and serve the casserole over cauliflower rice or alongside a fresh green salad.
• Herbs and seasoning: Add fresh thyme, oregano, or parsley to the vegetable sauté for added aroma and flavor.

How to Store Leftovers

Store any leftover Philly Cheesesteak Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, cover the casserole with foil and warm it in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions until hot, though the oven method helps maintain the casserole’s texture better.

For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if still chilled.

FAQ

Can I use ground beef instead of sliced beef?

Yes, ground beef can be used as a substitute. Cook it thoroughly and drain excess fat before mixing it with the sautéed vegetables and cheese sauce. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.

What’s the best cheese to use for this casserole?

Provolone cheese is ideal because it melts beautifully and has a mild, creamy flavor reminiscent of a classic Philly cheesesteak. You can also use mozzarella or a blend of provolone and cheddar for a sharper taste.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the assembly step and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this casserole is excellent for meal prepping. It reheats very well, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. Portion it out into containers and store in the fridge for easy grab-and-go meals.

Conclusion

This Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is a fantastic way to enjoy all the classic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak in a warm, cheesy, and comforting casserole form. It’s easy to make, versatile, and perfect for any occasion—whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests. With tender beef, sautéed veggies, and a luscious cheese sauce, this casserole satisfies all your cravings with minimal effort. Give it a try and watch it become a staple in your recipe rotation!