There is something irresistibly comforting about a meal that brings together hearty, flavorful layers all baked into one dish, and this Philly Cheesesteak Casserole Recipe does just that. Imagine the tender, savory beef mingling with sweet sautéed peppers and onions, all nestled on a bed of crispy hashbrowns, and crowned with gooey melted cheese. It’s like your favorite Philly cheesesteak sandwich transformed into a cozy casserole that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or anytime you crave a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Get ready to make this easy and scrumptious casserole your new go-to recipe!
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create this delicious Philly Cheesesteak Casserole Recipe, you only need simple, everyday ingredients that combine wonderfully to deliver amazing flavors and textures. Each one plays its role in building layers of taste, from the juicy beef to the melty cheese topping and the soft, crispy potatoes that hold it all together.
- 1 lb thinly sliced beef: Ribeye or sirloin work best for tenderness and flavor.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For perfectly sautéing your vegetables without overpowering their sweetness.
- 1 medium onion, sliced: Adds a natural sweetness and depth to the beef mix.
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced: Brings a fresh, slightly bitter crunch that balances the richness.
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced: Adds vibrant color and a sweet peppery taste.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: A secret umami bomb that enhances the beef’s savory flavor.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: For a subtle garlicky warmth without being overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Boosts the onion flavor and adds complexity.
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper: Offers just the right amount of spice.
- Salt, to taste: Essential for bringing out all the flavors.
- 4 cups frozen hashbrowns: The perfect crispy base that soaks up all those juicy layers.
- 2 cups shredded provolone cheese: Melts beautifully with a mild, slightly tangy taste.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Adds sharpness and richness to the cheese blend.
- ½ cup beef broth or stock: Keeps the casserole moist and flavorful while baking.
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme (optional): Adds a subtle herbal note if you’re feeling fancy.
How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch casserole dish. This simple step ensures your cheesy layers won’t stick and helps later with easy serving. A well-prepared baking dish is key to a successful Philly Cheesesteak Casserole Recipe.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables to Perfection
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then toss in your sliced onions and bell peppers. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until they’re softened and just starting to caramelize. Those browned edges boost the natural sweetness and make the casserole pop with flavor. Once done, set the veggies aside while you move on to the beef.
Step 3: Cook the Beef and Season
Using the same skillet saves time and builds flavor by keeping all those tasty browned bits in the pan. Add your thinly sliced beef and cook it for 3-4 minutes until it’s nicely browned. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt to create that signature Philly cheesesteak seasoning. Let it cook for another minute or two, making sure all those spices blend perfectly with the beef.
Step 4: Assemble the Layers in Your Baking Dish
Begin by evenly spreading frozen hashbrowns across the bottom of your casserole dish. They act as a hearty base that crisps up in the oven. Next, add the cooked onion and pepper mixture in a layer on top of the potatoes. Follow that with a layer of seasoned, cooked beef, ensuring every bite is filled with meaty goodness.
Step 5: Add Moisture and Cheese
Pour half a cup of beef broth over the layered casserole to keep everything juicy as it bakes. Then sprinkle both shredded provolone and cheddar cheese evenly on top. This combination melts fabulously, creating a beautifully bubbly and golden crust by the time you’re done.
Step 6: Bake It to Cheesy Perfection
Cover your dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the cheese to start melting. After removing the foil, bake for an additional 10-15 minutes to get that irresistibly bubbly, golden top—the hallmark of a perfect Philly Cheesesteak Casserole Recipe.
Step 7: Rest and Serve
Once it’s out of the oven, let the casserole cool for a few minutes. This resting period helps all the layers set so your servings come out clean and delicious. If you want to add a touch of color and freshness, sprinkle chopped parsley on top before slicing.
How to Serve Philly Cheesesteak Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley or chopped green onions brighten the rich layers of the casserole and add a lovely pop of color. A light drizzle of hot sauce or ketchup on the side can also complement the hearty flavors wonderfully if you enjoy a bit of zing.
Side Dishes
Because this casserole is packed with protein and starch, lighter sides work best. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette, steamed broccoli, or even roasted Brussels sprouts make excellent companions that balance the meal perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Philly Cheesesteak Casserole Recipe in small ramekins for individual portions — perfect for dinner parties. You can also scoop it onto toasted hoagie rolls as a comforting sandwich alternative, blending the best of casserole and classic Philly cheesesteak vibes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Philly Cheesesteak Casserole Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It reheats beautifully, making it a perfect option for quick lunches or next-day dinners without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Freezing
If you want to save this casserole for longer, freezing is a great option. Wrap the cooled casserole tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn, and it will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for the best results.
Reheating
Reheat your casserole in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. To revive the crispy top, you can bake it uncovered for the last 5 minutes. Microwaving works too if you’re in a hurry, though the texture may be a little softer.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese in the Philly Cheesesteak Casserole Recipe?
Absolutely! While provolone and cheddar are classic choices, you can experiment with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick. Just choose cheeses that melt well to maintain that luscious, gooey texture.
Is it okay to use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hashbrowns?
Yes, you can substitute frozen hashbrowns with fresh potatoes that are diced and cooked. Just make sure to cook them until tender before assembling the casserole to ensure even baking and a great texture.
Can this casserole be made vegetarian?
Definitely! You can swap the beef for hearty mushrooms, tofu, or a plant-based beef alternative. Keep the sautéed peppers and onions, and consider adding extra seasoning to get that rich Philly cheesesteak flavor without the meat.
How spicy is this Philly Cheesesteak Casserole Recipe?
This casserole is mild by default, focusing on savory and slightly sweet notes. However, you can easily add a pinch of crushed red pepper or your favorite hot sauce to the beef mixture if you like a bit of heat.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time and bake it later?
Yes! You can assemble the Philly Cheesesteak Casserole Recipe a few hours or even a day in advance. Just cover and refrigerate before baking. When ready, bake as instructed, possibly adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking straight from the fridge.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a cozy, crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to make and full of bold flavors, this Philly Cheesesteak Casserole Recipe is just the ticket. It has all the tasty goodness of a classic cheesesteak sandwich with the convenience and comfort of a baked casserole. Give it a try for your next dinner—you might just discover a new favorite that everyone will ask for again and again!
Print
Philly Cheesesteak Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that combines thinly sliced beef, sautéed onions and bell peppers, tender hashbrowns, and a melty cheese blend, all baked to perfection. It’s an easy, hearty meal inspired by the classic Philly cheesesteak sandwich but served as a casserole, making it perfect for family dinners or meal prep.
Ingredients
Beef and Vegetables
- 1 lb (450g) thinly sliced beef (such as ribeye or sirloin)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
Seasonings and Sauces
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- Salt, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
Casserole Base
- 4 cups frozen hashbrowns (or 4 cups cooked, diced potatoes)
- 1/2 cup beef broth or stock
Cheese
- 2 cups shredded provolone cheese (or mozzarella cheese)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or casserole dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- Cook the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onions and bell peppers. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables soften and develop a light brown color. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Cook the Beef: In the same skillet, add the thinly sliced beef and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and dried thyme if using. Cook for 1-2 more minutes, then remove from heat.
- Assemble the Casserole: Spread the frozen hashbrowns evenly on the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the base layer.
- Add the Vegetables and Beef: Layer the sautéed onions and bell peppers over the hashbrowns, then top with the cooked beef mixture evenly.
- Add Moisture: Pour the beef broth evenly over the casserole layers to keep it moist during baking.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded provolone and cheddar cheeses evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake Covered: Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes to heat through and melt the cheese.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden brown.
- Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Optionally, garnish with fresh parsley to add color and freshness.
Notes
- You can substitute the provolone cheese with mozzarella for a milder flavor.
- If using cooked diced potatoes instead of frozen hashbrowns, ensure they are well seasoned for better taste.
- Adding dried thyme is optional but adds a nice herbal note to the dish.
- Make sure to slice the beef thinly to ensure it cooks quickly and stays tender.
- This casserole can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated before baking.
- To make this recipe gluten free, verify that the Worcestershire sauce and beef broth are gluten free.
