Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

Introduction

This Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is a comforting twist on the classic sandwich. It combines juicy ground beef, tender bell peppers, caramelized onions, and melted provolone cheese — all baked into a creamy, cheesy casserole. It’s everything you love about a Philly cheesesteak, but in a simple, low-carb, oven-baked form that’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep.

Ingredients Quantity

IngredientQuantity
Ground Beef1 ½ pounds
Green Bell Peppers2, sliced thin
Yellow Onion½, sliced thin
Garlic2 teaspoons, minced
Seasoned Salt1 teaspoon
Provolone Cheese8 slices
Eggs4 large
Worcestershire Sauce2 teaspoons
Heavy Whipping Cream¼ cup

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven:
    Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with oil or butter.
  2. Cook Ground Beef:
    In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and crumbled. Drain off any excess fat.
  3. Sauté Vegetables:
    Add the sliced bell peppers, onion, and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 5–7 minutes, until the vegetables are tender. Season with seasoned salt.
  4. Prepare Egg Mixture:
    In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, Worcestershire sauce, and heavy whipping cream until smooth and fully combined.
  5. Combine Ingredients:
    Add the cooked beef and vegetables into the egg mixture and stir until evenly distributed.
  6. Assemble the Casserole:
    Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Arrange provolone cheese slices evenly on top.
  7. Bake:
    Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden at the edges.
  8. Cool and Serve:
    Allow the casserole to cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy warm!

Origin and Cultural Significance

Inspired by the iconic Philadelphia Cheesesteak Sandwich, this casserole version takes the bold flavors of that American favorite and transforms them into a comforting baked dish. The original cheesesteak was born in Philadelphia in the 1930s and became a symbol of hearty, blue-collar comfort food. This casserole pays homage to that heritage while catering to modern tastes for convenience and low-carb dining.

Description

Every bite of this casserole brings you melty cheese, juicy beef, and the sweet, savory flavor of sautéed peppers and onions. The eggs and cream give it a rich, custard-like base that binds everything together, while the provolone melts into a perfectly creamy, slightly tangy topping. It’s indulgent yet surprisingly balanced — satisfying without being heavy.

Optional Additions

  • Add Mushrooms: Sliced cremini or button mushrooms for more umami depth.
  • Spice It Up: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
  • Cheese Variations: Try mozzarella, cheddar, or pepper jack for a twist.
  • Low-Carb Boost: Serve over cauliflower rice or alongside a green salad.
  • Sandwich Style: Spoon the baked mixture into hoagie rolls for a traditional Philly feel.

Tips for Success

  • Don’t skip draining the fat — it keeps the casserole from becoming greasy.
  • Slice the vegetables thinly so they cook evenly and blend well with the beef.
  • Let it rest before cutting to allow the layers to set for clean slices.
  • For extra golden cheese, broil for 1–2 minutes after baking.

Nutritional Information

(per serving, approximately 1/6 of casserole)

  • Calories: 390 kcal
  • Protein: 29 g
  • Fat: 30 g
  • Carbohydrates: 5 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Sugar: 2 g

This casserole is keto-friendly, low-carb, and rich in protein — ideal for satisfying cravings without the bread.

Conclusion and Recommendation

This Philly Cheesesteak Casserole captures all the flavors of the famous sandwich in a simple, oven-baked form. It’s hearty, cheesy, and bursting with flavor, making it perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or weekly meal prep. Serve it with a crisp side salad or roasted veggies for a complete, balanced meal.

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

Enjoying this casserole is all about comfort made wholesome — you get the delicious satisfaction of melted cheese and savory beef while keeping carbs to a minimum. It’s proof that indulgence and nourishment can go hand-in-hand. Each bite delivers warmth, flavor, and a little reminder that healthy eating can still feel like a treat.

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