Welcome to a delightful twist on a classic American favorite! This Philly Cheesesteak Casserole recipe transforms the iconic sandwich into a hearty, comforting, and incredibly easy-to-make dinner. Imagine tender egg noodles, savory shaved ribeye steak, and perfectly sautéed peppers and onions, all generously coated in a rich, creamy sauce and topped with melted provolone cheese. It’s a complete meal in one dish, designed to bring all the beloved flavors of a traditional Philly cheesesteak to your family table with minimal fuss.
Whether you’re a long-time fan of the original sandwich or looking for a new family favorite, this casserole promises a culinary experience that’s both familiar and exciting. It’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights, special gatherings, or whenever you crave a hearty, flavor-packed dish that’s sure to satisfy. Get ready to ditch the hoagie rolls and dive spoon-first into this incredibly delicious and convenient casserole!
A Beloved Sandwich Transformed into a Comforting Casserole
The Philly cheesesteak is a legendary sandwich, celebrated for its irresistible combination of thinly sliced beef, melted cheese, and tender onions and peppers, all nestled in a crusty roll. Our Philly Cheesesteak Casserole takes this beloved flavor profile and reimagines it for the casserole dish, making it accessible, less messy, and perfect for feeding a crowd. This innovative recipe was an instant hit in my own family, and I’m confident it will be in yours too!
What makes this casserole so special? It’s the effortless way it delivers that authentic cheesesteak taste without requiring individual sandwich assembly. You get all the savory beef, the sweet and tangy peppers and onions, and the gooey, creamy cheese blend in every single bite, perfectly mixed with satisfying egg noodles. It’s comfort food at its finest, easy enough for novice cooks yet impressive enough to please even the most discerning palates. Plus, with our handy tips and variations, you can easily customize it to suit your family’s unique preferences.
Why You’ll Adore This Philly Cheesesteak Casserole
There are countless reasons why this Philly Cheesesteak Casserole will become a regular in your meal rotation. First and foremost, it delivers exceptional flavor. Each spoonful is a harmonious blend of savory steak, sweet peppers, sharp onions, and a velvety cheese sauce that truly captures the essence of a classic cheesesteak. Beyond its incredible taste, this recipe shines in its simplicity and adaptability.
- Effortless Preparation: Forget complicated cooking techniques. This recipe is straightforward, designed for busy individuals who want a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Family Favorite: It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! The familiar flavors and comforting casserole format appeal to both kids and adults, making dinner disputes a thing of the past.
- Budget-Friendly: Utilizing pantry staples and common ingredients, this casserole offers a hearty and satisfying meal that won’t break the bank.
- Versatile Customization: From different types of cheese to alternative proteins and vegetables, this recipe is incredibly forgiving and easy to adapt to your specific tastes or whatever you have on hand.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: While best fresh, the leftovers are equally delicious, making it an excellent candidate for meal planning throughout the week.
Say goodbye to boring dinners and hello to a vibrant, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying dish that brings joy to every meal!
Frequently Asked Questions About Philly Cheesesteak Casserole
Absolutely! While pre-shaved ribeye steak offers incredible convenience and cooks quickly, you have several options. If you prefer to use a whole ribeye steak, simply slice it against the grain as thinly as possible. Freezing the steak for about 15-20 minutes before slicing can make this task much easier. Other excellent beef choices include thinly sliced sirloin, flank steak, or even lean ground beef if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option. For those who prefer a non-beef alternative, cooked and shredded chicken breast works wonderfully and offers a lighter twist.
This casserole is a fantastic canvas for culinary creativity! To diversify the vegetable profile, consider adding other colored bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange) alongside the classic green. Sliced mushrooms, particularly cremini or button mushrooms, would also be a wonderful addition, bringing an earthy depth. For a more authentic “Philly” experience, you could stir in a dollop of Cheez Whiz into the creamy sauce for an extra tangy, savory kick, or layer slices of American cheese over the provolone. A dash of Worcestershire sauce in the beef mixture can also amplify its umami notes.
We understand that sour cream isn’t for everyone. If you’re looking for an alternative, plain Greek yogurt is an excellent substitute, offering a similar tang and creaminess with potentially fewer calories and more protein. Ensure it’s plain and unsweetened. Another option could be softened cream cheese, which will make the sauce incredibly rich and decadent. If you typically use a different creamy ingredient in your casseroles, feel free to experiment with that. Sometimes, simply adding a bit more cream of chicken soup and a splash of milk can also work to maintain the desired consistency, though it might alter the flavor slightly. If you discover a fantastic alternative, please share it in the comments – it could help fellow home cooks!
Leftover casserole should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can microwave individual portions or bake the whole dish in an oven at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through, adding a splash of milk or broth if it seems too dry. Freezing this casserole is possible, but be aware that the texture may change. The creamy sauce and pasta can become a bit grainy or mushy once thawed and reheated. For best results, freeze individual portions in airtight, freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently. While it won’t be quite as perfect as fresh, it will still be a delicious and convenient meal!
Recipe Details at a Glance
Here’s a quick overview of what to expect when making this delicious Philly Cheesesteak Casserole:
- Prep Time: Approximately 15 minutes
- Cook Time: Roughly 20 minutes
- Resting Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: Around 40 minutes
- Servings: 6 generous portions
- Author: Brandie Skibinski
- Course: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition (per serving, estimated):
- Calories: 514 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 33g
- Sodium: 340mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 5g
Nutritional Disclaimer: Please note that “The Country Cook” is not a dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is an estimate. If calorie count and other nutritional values are important to you, we recommend running the ingredients through your preferred online nutritional calculator. Calories and other nutritional values can vary quite a bit depending on which brands and specific ingredients are used.
Essential Ingredients for Your Philly Cheesesteak Casserole
Crafting the perfect Philly Cheesesteak Casserole starts with a selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building the layers of flavor that make this dish so irresistible. Below is a detailed list of what you’ll need, along with helpful tips and potential substitutions.
- 5 cups medium egg noodles: These noodles are perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce and providing a comforting base. If egg noodles aren’t your preference, feel free to swap them out for other pasta options like penne, rotini, or even macaroni. Ensure you cook them al dente according to package instructions.
- 1 pound thinly shaved ribeye steak: The star of our casserole! Thinly shaved ribeye is ideal for its tenderness and quick cooking time, just like a traditional cheesesteak. If you can’t find pre-shaved steak, buy a whole ribeye (or a similar tender cut like sirloin or flank steak) and slice it very thinly yourself. Partially freezing the steak beforehand makes slicing much easier. For alternatives, cooked and shredded chicken breast works beautifully, or for a different texture, ground beef is a simple and delicious substitute.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance the natural flavors of the beef and vegetables. Adjust amounts to your personal preference throughout the cooking process.
- 3 Tablespoons salted butter: Used to sauté the vegetables and add a rich, buttery flavor to the dish. If you’re mindful of sodium intake, unsalted butter can be used, and you can adjust the added salt accordingly.
- ½ white onion, sliced: Onions are a foundational ingredient in any cheesesteak, providing a sweet and savory aromatic base. White onions caramelize beautifully. You can also use yellow onions or even sweet Vidalia onions for a slightly different flavor profile. Slice them thinly for even cooking.
- 1 green pepper, sliced: The vibrant color and distinct flavor of green bell peppers are classic in a cheesesteak. While some prefer to omit them, they contribute essential taste and texture. If you’re not a fan of green peppers, or simply want to experiment, feel free to use red, yellow, or orange bell peppers, which offer a sweeter note. Slice them similarly to the onions for consistent cooking.
- 1 cup sour cream: This is the secret to our luxuriously creamy sauce, adding a tangy depth that balances the richness of the steak and cheese. As mentioned in our FAQs, plain Greek yogurt is an excellent substitute for a lighter option, or cream cheese for an even richer sauce.
- 10.5 ounce can cream of chicken soup: This canned soup serves as a convenient and flavorful base for the creamy sauce. You can easily make your own Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup if you prefer. Alternatively, cream of mushroom soup is a fantastic option that adds an earthy dimension to the casserole.
- 1 cup milk: Helps to thin out the sauce to the perfect consistency, ensuring it coats every noodle and piece of steak evenly. Any milk fat percentage (whole, 2%, or skim) will work, though whole milk will yield a richer sauce.
- ½ tbsp fresh black pepper: A little extra black pepper adds a pleasant kick and aromatic warmth to the dish.
- 1 cup freshly grated provolone cheese: Provolone cheese is a quintessential ingredient for a Philly cheesesteak, melting beautifully and offering a mild, slightly smoky flavor. Freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly, but pre-shredded provolone or even slices layered on top will work just as well. For those who enjoy variety, American cheese or a Monterey Jack blend can also be used.
Step-by-Step Guide: Crafting Your Perfect Philly Cheesesteak Casserole
Follow these easy instructions to assemble a mouthwatering Philly Cheesesteak Casserole that’s bursting with flavor and comforting goodness. Each step is designed to be straightforward, ensuring a delicious result every time.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). At the same time, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cook the egg noodles according to the package directions until they are al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- While the noodles are cooking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pre-shaved ribeye steak to the hot skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until it’s browned and fully cooked through. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, remove the beef from the skillet with a slotted spoon and set it aside, leaving any drippings in the pan for added flavor.
- In the same skillet (without draining any remaining drippings), melt the 3 tablespoons of salted butter over medium heat. Add the sliced white onion and green pepper to the pan. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes, or until the vegetables have softened and the onion is translucent. They should be tender-crisp, not mushy.
- Return the cooked steak to the skillet with the sautéed onions and peppers. Season the mixture generously with salt and pepper to taste, ensuring everything is well combined. Continue to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes on medium heat, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked egg noodles, the cooked beef, and the sautéed pepper and onion mixture. Toss gently to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the bowl.
- In a separate medium-sized bowl, whisk together the sour cream, cream of chicken soup, milk, and ½ tablespoon of fresh black pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This will be your luscious creamy sauce.
- Pour the prepared creamy sauce over the noodle, meat, and veggie mixture in the large mixing bowl. Fold everything together gently but thoroughly, making sure all components are generously coated in the sauce. Transfer this mixture into your prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Generously sprinkle the 1 cup of freshly grated provolone cheese over the entire surface of the casserole. Ensure an even layer so every serving gets that perfect cheesy topping.
- Place the uncovered casserole dish into your preheated oven. Bake for approximately 20 minutes, or until the provolone cheese on top is completely melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown. The internal temperature of the casserole should be heated through.
- Once baked, carefully remove the casserole from the oven. Let it cool and rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This brief resting period allows the sauce to set slightly and makes for easier, cleaner serving. Then, scoop out generous portions and enjoy your homemade Philly Cheesesteak Casserole!
Chef’s Notes & Tips for Perfection
- For optimal flavor, ensure your vegetables are sautéed until tender but still retain a slight bite – avoid overcooking them into mush.
- When cooking the ribeye, don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if necessary to achieve a good sear, preventing the meat from steaming.
- Al dente pasta is crucial! It will continue to cook slightly in the oven, so avoid starting with overcooked noodles, which can lead to a mushy casserole.
- Freshly grated cheese always melts better and has a superior texture compared to pre-shredded varieties, which often contain anti-caking agents.
- Don’t forget to refer to our comprehensive FAQ section and detailed ingredient list above for additional substitution ideas and answers to common queries regarding this recipe. We’ve packed it with helpful information to make your cooking experience seamless!
Serving Suggestions and Perfect Pairings
This Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is a complete meal on its own, packed with protein, carbs, and vegetables. However, you can easily elevate your dining experience with a few thoughtful additions. For a lighter touch, serve it alongside a crisp green salad with a zesty vinaigrette, which will cut through the richness of the casserole. A side of steamed green beans or roasted asparagus can also add a fresh, healthy component. If you’re looking for extra indulgence, warm garlic bread or crusty rolls are perfect for soaking up any extra creamy sauce. And for those who enjoy a little spice, a drizzle of hot sauce on top of your individual serving can add a fantastic kick!
Customizing Your Philly Cheesesteak Casserole: Variations to Explore
One of the best aspects of this Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is its incredible versatility. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own! Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Cheese Lovers Dream: While provolone is classic, try a blend of provolone and mozzarella for extra stretch, or provolone and cheddar for a sharper flavor. For an authentic twist, add a layer of white American cheese slices or a swirl of Cheez Whiz into the sauce.
- Spice It Up: Introduce a little heat by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the beef and veggie mixture, or include finely diced jalapeños with the bell peppers. A dash of cayenne pepper in the sauce can also provide a subtle warmth.
- Veggie Boost: Beyond green peppers and onions, consider adding sautéed mushrooms, thinly sliced zucchini, or even a handful of fresh spinach at the mixing stage for an extra dose of greens.
- Protein Alternatives: If ribeye isn’t available or preferred, ground beef (browned and drained) makes for an equally delicious and often more economical option. Cooked, shredded chicken or thinly sliced turkey breast can also be used for a “Chicken Philly Casserole” twist.
- Herbaceous Notes: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives after baking can add a burst of freshness and color. Dried oregano or thyme can also be incorporated into the sauce for a more aromatic profile.
- Different Pasta Shapes: While egg noodles are fantastic, feel free to use other short pasta shapes like rotini, penne, or even rigatoni to change the texture and presentation.
The possibilities are endless, allowing you to tailor this casserole to your family’s unique tastes and dietary needs!
Craving More Delicious Casseroles and Cheesesteak-Inspired Dishes?
If you loved this Philly Cheesesteak Casserole, you’re in for a treat! The world of comfort food is vast and exciting. Explore these other fantastic recipes that promise to deliver flavor and satisfaction:
- Philly Cheesesteak Cups
- Philly Cheesesteak Skillet
- Crock Pot Cheesesteak Tortellini
- Philly Cheesesteak Rollups
- Philly Cheesesteak Crescent Ring
- Philly Cheesesteak Garlic Bread
- Chicken Philly Sandwiches
- Cheesesteak Stuffed Peppers
- Crock Pot Cheesesteak Potato Casserole
- Chicken Philly Casserole
- Tuna Noodle Casserole
- Ground Beef Stroganoff
- French Dip Sliders
- Polish Casserole for Two
Originally published: October 2020
Updated photos and republished: November 2023