The Star-Studded Cast (Ingredients)
For the Steak Mixture:
- 1 pound sirloin steak, thinly sliced (or ground beef for a budget-friendly option)
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Cheesy Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 cups milk
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 4 ounces provolone cheese, shredded
- 4 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Assembly:
- 1 (12 ounce) package hoagie rolls, cut into 1-inch cubes (or use a similar sturdy bread)
Let’s Get Cooking: Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Veggies
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the sliced onion and bell peppers and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Remove the vegetables from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Steak (or Ground Beef)
- In the same skillet, add the thinly sliced steak (or ground beef).
- If using steak, cook until browned and cooked through. If using ground beef, cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain off any excess grease.
- Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
- Add the cooked vegetables back to the skillet with the steak. Stir to combine.
Step 3: Whip Up the Cheesy Sauce
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, making sure to smooth out any lumps.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly, until it thickens slightly.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Add the provolone and mozzarella cheese and stir until melted and creamy.
- Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Spread half of the cubed hoagie rolls evenly in the bottom of the dish.
- Top with the steak and vegetable mixture.
- Pour the cheesy sauce evenly over the steak mixture.
- Top with the remaining cubed hoagie rolls.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cheesesteak Casserole: Your Questions Answered
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! While provolone and mozzarella are classic choices for cheesesteaks, feel free to experiment. Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a little bit of pepper jack can add a fun twist. Just be sure the cheeses you choose melt well.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Assemble the casserole as directed, but don’t bake it. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What if I don’t have hoagie rolls?
No problem! Any sturdy bread will work. French bread, Italian bread, or even a loaf of sourdough will do the trick. You can also use crescent roll dough pressed into the bottom of the baking dish.
Can I add mushrooms?
Definitely! Sauté sliced mushrooms along with the onions and peppers for an extra layer of flavor.
My sauce is too thick! What do I do?
Don’t panic! Simply add a little more milk, one tablespoon at a time, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
My sauce is too thin! What do I do?
If your sauce is too thin, you can thicken it by creating a slurry with a tablespoon of cornstarch and a tablespoon of cold water. Whisk the slurry into the sauce and simmer for a few minutes until it thickens.
Level Up Your Philly Cheesesteak Casserole
Spicy Kick
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the steak mixture or the cheesy sauce for a little heat. You can also use pepper jack cheese for an extra spicy kick.
Pizza Twist
Stir in a can of diced tomatoes with Italian seasoning to the steak mixture for a pizza-inspired cheesesteak casserole.
Loaded Casserole
Top the casserole with crumbled bacon, sour cream, and chopped chives after baking for a loaded baked potato vibe.
Crustless Option
Skip the bread altogether for a lower-carb option! This is a great way to enjoy the flavors without the extra carbs, especially if you are watching your calorie intake. This is somewhat similar to Philly Cheesesteak Bowls.
What to Serve With Your Cheesesteak Casserole
This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but if you’re looking to round out your dinner, here are a few ideas:
- A simple side salad with a vinaigrette dressing
- Steamed green beans or broccoli
- Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks
- Tater Tot Casserole (if you’re feeling extra indulgent!)
Other Delicious Casserole Ideas
If you love casseroles as much as I do, here are a few other recipes you might enjoy:
- Cabbage Beef Bake
- Philly Cheese Steak Pasta (another great way to enjoy cheesesteak flavors!)
- Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteaks
- Cheesy Dorito Casserole
A Final Word from Your Kitchen Bestie
This Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is more than just a recipe; it’s a hug in a baking dish. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or any time you’re craving a hearty and comforting meal. Don’t be afraid to get creative with the ingredients and make it your own. The most important ingredient is always love, so grab your apron and let’s get cooking! You’ve got this!Can I use ground beef instead of steak in the Philly Cheesesteak Casserole?
Yes, you can use ground beef as a budget-friendly option. Cook it until browned, breaking it up with a spoon, and drain off any excess grease before adding it to the casserole.
How can I prevent the cheesy sauce from becoming too thick or too thin?
If the sauce is too thick, add milk one tablespoon at a time until it reaches the desired consistency. If it’s too thin, whisk a slurry of one tablespoon of cornstarch and one tablespoon of cold water into the sauce and simmer for a few minutes until thickened.
What are some variations I can make to the Philly Cheesesteak Casserole?
You can add a spicy kick with red pepper flakes or pepper jack cheese, create a pizza twist by stirring in diced tomatoes with Italian seasoning, or make a loaded casserole by topping it with crumbled bacon, sour cream, and chives after baking.
What kind of bread can I substitute for hoagie rolls?
Any sturdy bread will work. French bread, Italian bread, or even a loaf of sourdough can be used. You can also use crescent roll dough pressed into the bottom of the baking dish.
Irresistible Philly Cheesesteak Casserole
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and bell peppers and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Remove the vegetables from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the thinly sliced steak. Cook until browned and cooked through. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Add the cooked vegetables back to the skillet with the steak. Stir to combine.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, making sure to smooth out any lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly, until it thickens slightly.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the provolone and mozzarella cheese and stir until melted and creamy. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Spread half of the cubed hoagie rolls evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Top with the steak and vegetable mixture.
- Pour the cheesy sauce evenly over the steak mixture.
- Top with the remaining cubed hoagie rolls.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
