EASY PHILLY CHEESESTEAK CASSEROLE

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Author: Alice Yowell
Published:
Philly Cheesesteak Casserole: A cheesy, delicious baked dish perfect for a comforting meal.

Tired of the same old weeknight dinners and craving that iconic Philly flavor? Imagine layers of tender steak, sauteed peppers and onions, and a blanket of gooey, melted cheese all baked to golden perfection in a single dish. This Philly Cheesesteak Casserole recipe delivers all the satisfaction of a classic Philly Cheesesteak, but in a super easy casserole form that’s ready in under an hour, and I promise, the whole family will devour it!

Ingredients for the BEST Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

Meat & Veggies

  • 1.5 lbs thinly sliced steak (I like using shaved ribeye)
  • 1 large onion, sliced
  • 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Cheese Sauce

  • 4 tbsp butter
  • 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups milk
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 8 oz provolone cheese, shredded
  • 4 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

Bread Base

  • 1 loaf Italian bread, cubed
  • 2 tbsp melted butter
  • 1 tsp garlic powder

Let’s Talk Philly Cheesesteak Casserole: Why This Recipe Works

Close-up view of a freshly baked Philly Cheesesteak Casserole, showcasing its melted cheese and golden-brown topping.

Okay, so we all love a good Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich, right? But sometimes, you just don’t have the time or energy for individual sandwiches. That’s where this Philly Cheesesteak Casserole comes in! It’s the perfect solution for a quick and easy weeknight dinner, and it’s also great for potlucks or gatherings. It has all the classic flavors you crave, like tender steak, sweet peppers and onions, and that glorious cheese sauce, but in a convenient casserole format.

What really sets this recipe apart is the balance of flavors and textures. We’re not just throwing ingredients together. The steak is seasoned perfectly, the vegetables are sauteed until tender-crisp, and the cheese sauce is rich and creamy without being too heavy. Plus, the cubed bread adds a nice bit of texture and soaks up all that delicious sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions: Creating Your Culinary Masterpiece

Prepping the Bread

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large bowl, toss the cubed Italian bread with melted butter and garlic powder.
  3. Spread the bread cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly toasted. This will prevent the casserole from becoming soggy.

Cooking the Steak and Veggies

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the sliced steak and cook until browned and cooked through. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan, or the steak will steam instead of brown. You may need to cook it in batches.
  3. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
  4. Add the sliced onion and bell peppers to the skillet and cook until softened, about 8-10 minutes.
  5. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  6. Return the steak to the skillet and mix with the vegetables. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Making the Cheese Sauce

  1. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
  2. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux.
  3. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth.
  4. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens slightly.
  5. Reduce heat to low and stir in the softened cream cheese until melted and smooth.
  6. Stir in the provolone and mozzarella cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy.
  7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Assembling the Casserole

  1. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. Spread the toasted bread cubes evenly in the bottom of the dish.
  3. Pour the steak and vegetable mixture over the bread cubes.
  4. Pour the cheese sauce over the steak and vegetables, making sure everything is evenly covered.

Baking Time!

  1. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is golden brown.
  2. Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the cheese sauce to set slightly.

Tips and Tricks for Philly Cheesesteak Casserole Perfection

Let’s face it, even the easiest recipes can have a few potential pitfalls. But don’t worry, I’m here to help you avoid them!

  • Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When cooking the steak, make sure to cook it in batches. Overcrowding the pan will cause the steak to steam instead of brown, which will affect the flavor and texture.
  • Toast the Bread: Toasting the bread cubes before assembling the casserole is crucial to prevent them from becoming soggy. Trust me, you don’t want a soggy casserole!
  • Use Good Quality Cheese: The cheese sauce is the star of this dish, so don’t skimp on the quality of the cheese. Use good quality provolone and mozzarella cheese for the best flavor and melt.
  • Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasoning of the steak, vegetables, and cheese sauce to your liking. Taste as you go and add more salt, pepper, or garlic powder as needed.

Variations and Substitutions: Make It Your Own!

One of the best things about casseroles is how easily you can customize them to your liking. Here are a few ideas for variations and substitutions:

  • Cheese Options: While provolone and mozzarella are classic choices, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, pepper jack, or even a bit of Swiss.
  • Vegetable Additions: Add mushrooms, jalapenos, or banana peppers for an extra kick.
  • Meat Alternatives: Ground beef or even shredded chicken can be used in place of the steak, though it won’t be a true Philly Cheesesteak Casserole.
  • Low Carb Version: Swap out the Italian bread for cauliflower rice to keep the carbs down. You might also like Keto Cheesesteak Roll Perfection!

Serving Suggestions: Complete Your Meal

This Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is a hearty and satisfying meal on its own, but here are a few ideas for sides to complete your dinner:

  • A simple green salad with vinaigrette dressing
  • Roasted asparagus or broccoli
  • Garlic bread (if you’re feeling extra indulgent)
  • A side of Philly Cheesesteak Soup for a true cheesesteak experience!

If you love a good crockpot recipe, you might also want to try Philly Cheesesteak Tortellini Crockpot Pasta. And for those who like a little spice, consider the Buffalo Chicken Cheesesteak!

Storing and Reheating: Enjoying Leftovers

Leftovers are always a bonus! Store any leftover Philly Cheesesteak Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or bake the entire casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

This Philly Cheese Steak Casserole is perfect when you need some Clean Dinner Recipes!

Why This Philly Cheesesteak Casserole Recipe is a Winner

Ultimately, this Philly Cheesesteak Casserole Recipe is a winner because it’s easy, delicious, and satisfying. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the classic flavors of a Philly Cheesesteak without all the fuss. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a family favorite. So go ahead, give it a try and let me know what you think! I promise, you won’t be disappointed. Happy cooking!

What type of steak is recommended for the Philly Cheesesteak Casserole?

The recipe suggests using thinly sliced steak, with shaved ribeye being a preferred option.

What is the key to preventing the bread base from becoming soggy in the casserole?

Toasting the cubed Italian bread with melted butter and garlic powder before assembling the casserole is crucial to prevent sogginess.

What are some variations I can make to this Philly Cheesesteak Casserole?

You can experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack, add vegetables like mushrooms or jalapenos, or use ground beef or shredded chicken instead of steak. For a low-carb option, you can substitute cauliflower rice for the Italian bread.

How long can I store leftover Philly Cheesesteak Casserole?

You can store leftover Philly Cheesesteak Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Philly Cheesesteak Casserole: A cheesy, delicious baked dish perfect for a comforting meal.

Easy Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

Avatar photoAlice Yowell
This Easy Philly Cheesesteak Casserole delivers the classic flavors of a Philly Cheesesteak in a convenient and satisfying casserole form. Tender steak, sauteed peppers and onions, and a creamy cheese sauce are baked to golden perfection over a bed of toasted Italian bread, making it a perfect weeknight meal.
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 650 kcal

Equipment

  • 9×13 inch baking dish
  • Large bowl
  • Baking Sheet
  • Large skillet
  • Large saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Oven

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs thinly sliced steak shaved ribeye recommended
  • 1 large onion, sliced
  • 2 bell peppers any color
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 4 tbsp butter
  • 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups milk
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 8 oz provolone cheese, shredded
  • 4 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • 1 loaf Italian bread, cubed
  • 2 tbsp melted butter
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • In a large bowl, toss the cubed Italian bread with 2 tbsp melted butter and 1 tsp garlic powder.
  • Spread the bread cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly toasted. Set aside.
  • Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Add the sliced steak and cook until browned and cooked through. Cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
  • Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
  • Add the sliced onion and bell peppers to the skillet and cook until softened, about 8-10 minutes.
  • Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  • Return the steak to the skillet and mix with the vegetables. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • In a large saucepan, melt 4 tbsp butter over medium heat.
  • Whisk in 4 tbsp flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux.
  • Gradually whisk in 3 cups milk until smooth.
  • Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens slightly.
  • Reduce heat to low and stir in the softened cream cheese until melted and smooth.
  • Stir in the provolone and mozzarella cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy.
  • Season with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper, or to taste.
  • Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  • Spread the toasted bread cubes evenly in the bottom of the dish.
  • Pour the steak and vegetable mixture over the bread cubes.
  • Pour the cheese sauce over the steak and vegetables, making sure everything is evenly covered.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is golden brown.
  • Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Notes

For best results, toast the bread to prevent sogginess. Use good quality provolone and mozzarella for the cheese sauce. Adjust seasoning to your preference. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or bake the entire casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. For variations, try adding mushrooms, jalapenos, or banana peppers. You can also substitute the steak with ground beef or shredded chicken, or use cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Alice Yowell

Hey! I’m Alice, the heart behind BestHomeMadeRecipes. . Along with my cousin Amelia, Cooking has always been my passion, and there’s nothing I love more than creating bold, flavorful recipes that make every meal memorable.

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