James
This Loaded Philly Cheesesteak Casserole transforms all the delicious flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak sandwich into a rich, hearty, cheese-filled baked dinner. Tender beef, sautéed peppers and onions, mushrooms, creamy cheese sauce, and layers of melted provolone come together in one comforting casserole. Many popular versions include seasoned beef, bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, cream cheese, and provolone cheese baked until bubbly and golden.
Ingredients
For the Beef Mixture
- 2 pounds ground beef or thinly sliced steak
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 large red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 large yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Creamy Cheese Layer
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
For the Topping
- 8 slices provolone cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Mixing spoon
- 9×13-inch casserole dish
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Wash all vegetables thoroughly. Slice the bell peppers into thin strips. Thinly slice the onion and mushrooms. Mince the garlic. Keep everything ready before cooking begins.
Step 2: Cook the Beef
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef and cook until browned. Break it into small pieces if using ground beef. Drain excess grease if necessary.
Step 3: Season the Meat
Add Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir thoroughly so every piece of beef becomes coated with seasoning.
Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables
Add onions, peppers, mushrooms, and garlic to the skillet. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. The vegetables should soften while still maintaining a slight texture.
Step 5: Create the Creamy Sauce
Reduce heat to medium-low. Add cream cheese and beef broth. Stir continuously until the cream cheese melts completely. Pour in the heavy cream and continue stirring until a smooth sauce forms.
Step 6: Add Additional Cheese
Mix in shredded mozzarella and Monterey Jack cheese. Stir until melted and evenly incorporated into the beef mixture.
Step 7: Prepare the Baking Dish
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray or butter.
Step 8: Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the beef and vegetable mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread evenly from corner to corner.
Step 9: Add Cheese Layers
Arrange provolone slices over the entire surface. Sprinkle mozzarella and cheddar cheese evenly on top.
Step 10: Bake
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese becomes melted, bubbly, and lightly golden around the edges.
Step 11: Rest Before Serving
Remove from oven and allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes. This helps the sauce thicken and makes serving easier.
Step 12: Garnish
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs wonderfully with:
- Garlic bread
- Roasted vegetables
- Caesar salad
- Steamed broccoli
- Coleslaw
- Crispy potato wedges
- Buttered green beans
Storage Instructions
Refrigerator
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer
Freeze individual portions for up to 3 months.
Reheating
Warm in a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes or microwave until heated through.
Tips for the Best Casserole
- Use provolone for authentic cheesesteak flavor.
- Slice vegetables uniformly for even cooking.
- Do not overcook the peppers; slight texture improves the casserole.
- Allow the casserole to rest after baking.
- Add jalapeños for extra heat.
- Use ribeye steak for a more traditional cheesesteak taste.
- Freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly than pre-shredded varieties.
Delicious Variations
Bacon Loaded Version
Add 8 slices of cooked, crumbled bacon.
Spicy Version
Mix in diced jalapeños and crushed red pepper flakes.
Mushroom Lover’s Version
Double the mushrooms for extra earthy flavor.
Extra Cheesy Version
Add an additional cup of mozzarella and provolone.
Low-Carb Version
Serve over cauliflower rice instead of bread or potatoes.
Yield
- Serves 8 generous portions
- Preparation Time: 25 minutes
- Cooking Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: About 1 hour
The result is a rich, creamy, cheesy casserole packed with savory beef, tender peppers, onions, mushrooms, and plenty of melted cheese—everything people love about a Philly cheesesteak in comforting casserole form.
