Hearty & Cheesy The Ultimate Philly Cheesesteak Casserole
If you’re craving all the mouthwatering goodness of a Philly cheesesteak but want a low-carb, comforting twist that fits easily into a weeknight dinner routine—look no further. This Philly Cheesesteak Casserole recipe is the best of both worlds: rich, cheesy, packed with savory flavor, and shockingly simple to make. It’s a one-dish wonder that checks all the boxes for keto-friendly, protein-rich, and family-approved meals.
Whether you’re following a low-carb lifestyle, looking for easy meal prep ideas, or just love a hearty casserole dish that doesn’t skimp on flavor—this recipe is calling your name.
Why You’ll Love This Philly Cheesesteak Casserole
This recipe is ideal for:
Busy weeknights when you need a fast, filling dinner
Meal preppers who want a make-ahead dish that stores well
Low-carb or keto eaters seeking comforting food without the carbs
Cheesesteak fans looking for a fun twist on the classic
Unlike a traditional cheesesteak, this casserole ditches the bread and embraces the magic of a creamy egg base to bind all the classic ingredients together—think sautéed beef, bell peppers, onions, melted provolone, and a luscious layer of cream cheese. It’s a whole new way to love Philly cheesesteak, and it’s as easy as it is satisfying.
Ingredients Breakdown
Let’s take a closer look at what makes this casserole a standout:
1 lb ground beef or shaved steak – Choose based on your preference. Ground beef is budget-friendly and widely available, but shaved ribeye gives a more authentic Philly cheesesteak flavor.
1 green bell pepper, chopped – Adds color, crunch, and freshness.
1 onion, chopped – A must for that classic cheesesteak aroma and taste.
8 oz cream cheese, softened – Creates a creamy, indulgent base.
½ tsp garlic powder – Subtle seasoning to enhance the savoriness.
Salt and pepper, to taste – Always essential!
1 cup shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese – Provolone keeps it traditional, while mozzarella adds meltiness.
4 large eggs – Helps bind the casserole and adds protein.
¼ cup heavy cream – Richness and creaminess to pull it all together.
Step-by-Step Directions
1. Preheat and Prep
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a baking dish and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Savories
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the beef (or shaved steak), bell pepper, and onion until the meat is browned and the vegetables are tender. Drain off any excess grease.
3. Make It Creamy
Stir in the softened cream cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is smooth and evenly combined.
4. Add the Egg Mixture
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and heavy cream. Pour this mixture into the skillet and stir everything together to coat the meat and veggies evenly.
5. Assemble and Bake
Transfer everything to your prepared baking dish. Top with shredded cheese and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is set, golden, and bubbly.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
To make this Philly Cheesesteak Casserole, you’ll need the following:
Large skillet
Mixing bowls
Whisk
Wooden spoon or spatula
9×13-inch baking dish (or similar)
Oven mitts
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife and cutting board
Recipe Tips & Variations
Want to make this recipe your own? Here are a few chef-worthy tips and swaps:
Use shaved ribeye for a more authentic Philly cheesesteak flavor profile.
Add mushrooms for an extra layer of umami and a meatier texture.
Swap in red or yellow bell peppers for added sweetness and color.
Top with Cheez Whiz instead of provolone if you’re a purist who craves the iconic Philly goo.
Spice it up with crushed red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce.
Go dairy-free by using plant-based cream cheese and shredded cheese alternatives.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
This casserole makes fantastic leftovers, and it’s just as delicious reheated the next day.
Storage:
Cool the casserole completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheating:
Microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes, or reheat the full dish in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 15–20 minutes until warmed through.
Freezing Tip:
You can freeze the casserole before or after baking. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and it’ll keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Food & Drink Pairings
Make your Philly Cheesesteak Casserole meal complete with these pairing ideas:
Side salad with vinaigrette to balance the richness
Roasted broccoli or asparagus for extra veggies
Keto-friendly garlic bread if you’re sticking to low-carb
Crisp lager or a dry red wine for the adults
Sparkling water with lime for a fresh, fizzy contrast
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep the entire dish and refrigerate it (covered) for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the bake time if it’s going in cold.
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely. Provolone, mozzarella, cheddar, gouda, or Monterey Jack all work beautifully. Mix and match for extra flavor.
Q: Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes, it’s low in carbs and high in protein and fat, making it perfect for a keto diet.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just use a larger baking dish and ensure even mixing. You may need to adjust the bake time slightly—look for bubbly edges and a firm center.
Q: What if I don’t eat beef?
You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives to suit your dietary needs.
Final Thoughts
This Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is more than just a quick dinner—it’s a crowd-pleasing, crave-worthy comfort food that brings big city flavor right to your kitchen with zero fuss. Whether you’re feeding a family, stocking up your freezer, or treating yourself after a long day, this cheesy, beefy bake delivers every time.
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Until next time—happy cooking and even happier eating! 🧀🥩💚