This is a fantastic, low-carb, and incredibly easy way to get all the flavors of a classic Philly Cheesesteak without the need for bread or a grill. It’s a hearty, cheesy, crowd-pleasing dinner that comes together in one skillet (mostly).
Here is a comprehensive guide to making a delicious Philly Cheesesteak Casserole.
The Classic Philly Cheesesteak Casserole
This recipe focuses on the core ingredients: tender beef, sweet onions, bell peppers, and plenty of gooey provolone and mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients (Serves 6-8)
· For the Filling:
· 2 lbs thinly sliced beef sirloin or ribeye. (Tip: For easier slicing, freeze the meat for 20-30 minutes before cutting. You want it very thin.)
· 2 tbsp olive oil or butter, divided
· 1 large yellow or sweet onion, thinly sliced
· 1 large green bell pepper, thinly sliced
· 1 large red bell pepper, thinly sliced
· 8 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced (optional, but highly recommended)
· 3 cloves garlic, minced
· 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
· 1/2 tsp black pepper
· 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
· For the Cheese & Assembly:
· 8 oz cream cheese, softened
· 1/2 cup beef broth
· 8-10 slices provolone cheese
· 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or provolone)
· Optional garnish: Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Cook the Vegetables: In a large oven-safe skillet (like cast iron) or a regular skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms. Sauté until they are softened and begin to caramelize, about 8-10 minutes. Add the minced garlic during the last minute of cooking, stirring until fragrant. Transfer the vegetables to a bowl and set aside.
- Cook the Beef: In the same skillet, increase the heat to high and add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Add the thinly sliced beef in a single layer (you may need to do this in batches to avoid steaming). Let it sear without moving for 1-2 minutes until browned. Then, stir-fry until just cooked through. Season with salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Combine: Return the cooked vegetables to the skillet with the beef. Stir to combine. If you’re not using an oven-safe skillet, transfer the beef and veggie mixture to your greased 9×13 baking dish.
- Make it Creamy: In a small bowl, whisk together the softened cream cheese and beef broth until smooth. Pour this mixture over the beef and vegetables and stir everything together to coat.
- Layer the Cheese: First, lay the provolone slices evenly over the top of the casserole, overlapping as needed. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella over the provolone.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the cheese is melted and lightly golden. For a browner top, you can switch the oven to broil for the last 1-2 minutes. Watch it closely so it doesn’t burn!
- Rest & Serve: Let the casserole rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows it to set up a bit. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Tips for the BEST Philly Cheesesteak Casserole
· The Meat Matters: Ribeye is the traditional choice for its fat content and flavor, but sirloin or flank steak work great and are more budget-friendly. The key is slicing it very thin against the grain.
· Cheese Choices: Provolone is the classic “Philly” cheese, but you can also use:
· Cheez Whiz: For the true “authentic” Philly experience, you can omit the cream cheese mixture and drizzle warmed Cheez Whiz over the top before adding the provolone.
· White American Cheese: Melts incredibly smoothly.
· Mozzarella: Adds great stretchiness.
· Low-Carb/Keto: This recipe is naturally low in carbs and keto-friendly! Serve it as is, or over cauliflower rice.
· Make it a Meal: If you aren’t worried about carbs, this is phenomenal served over buttered egg noodles, rice, or inside a hollowed-out bread bowl.
· Don’t Overcook the Beef: Since you’ll be baking it again, it’s best to slightly undercook the beef on the stovetop. It will finish cooking in the oven and stay tender.
Variations
· Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Casserole: Substitute the beef with 2 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces.
· Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños with the peppers or a drizzle of sriracha or hot sauce to the cream cheese mixture.
· Add Some Crunch: If you want a little texture, top the casserole with buttery breadcrumbs mixed with parmesan cheese before baking.
Enjoy your delicious and easy Philly Cheesesteak Casserole