Ingredients
For the Savory Beef & Veggie Layer
1½ lbs (680g) ground beef (80/20 recommended) or shaved ribeye steak
1 medium onion, diced (~1 cup)
1 green bell pepper, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
8 oz (225g) cremini mushrooms, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp smoked paprika (optional—for depth)
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
For the Creamy Cheese Base
8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened to room temperature
½ cup (120g) mayonnaise
2 large eggs, room temperature
For the Cheesy Finish
1 cup (100g) shredded provolone cheese
1 cup (100g) shredded mozzarella cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat Oven & Prep Pan
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
2. Brown the Beef
In a large skillet over medium-high heat:
Add ground beef (or shaved steak) and cook 5–7 minutes, breaking it apart, until fully browned.
Drain excess fat if desired.
✅ Pro Tip: For extra flavor, sear shaved steak quickly before chopping.
3. Sauté the Vegetables
To the same skillet:
Add onion, bell peppers, mushrooms, and garlic.
Cook 5–6 minutes, stirring often, until veggies are tender and lightly caramelized.
Stir in salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and Worcestershire sauce.
4. Layer the Casserole
Transfer beef and veggie mixture to the prepared baking dish.
Spread evenly across the bottom.
5. Make the Creamy Base
In a bowl:
Beat softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, and eggs until smooth and well blended (~1 minute).
6. Assemble the Layers
Pour creamy mixture over the beef layer and spread gently.
Sprinkle evenly with provolone and mozzarella cheeses.
❗ Do not stir—layers should remain distinct.
7. Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake 25–30 minutes, until:
Top is deeply golden brown
Center is set (no jiggle)
Edges are bubbling
8. Rest & Serve
Let rest 5–10 minutes—this helps hold shape when scooping.
Cut into squares and serve warm.
Enjoy as:
A standalone main dish
On toasted hoagie rolls for sandwich-style fun
With a crisp green salad or garlic bread
You Must Know
Use full-fat dairy —low-fat versions may curdle or dry out.
Don’t skip resting —hot casserole falls apart when cut too soon.
Shaved steak > ground beef —for authentic texture (but ground works great!).
Tastes better the next day! Flavors deepen overnight.
Freezer-friendly —cool completely and freeze before or after baking.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheat gently in oven at 350°F for 12–15 minutes (best texture). Microwave works but may soften crust.
Freeze for up to 3 months —thaw overnight before reheating.
Ingredient Substitutions
Ground beef
Chicken, turkey, or plant-based crumbles
Adjust cook time as needed
Mayonnaise
Greek yogurt or sour cream
Tangier, lighter option
Provolone
Pepper Jack, Gouda, or Swiss
For different melt and flavor
Bell peppers
Zucchini, eggplant, or spinach
Seasonal swaps
Eggs
Flax eggs (2 tbsp ground flax + 6 tbsp water)
Vegan option (texture may vary)
Serving Suggestions
Serve family-style right in the pan.
Great for potlucks—bring the whole dish!
Double the batch and freeze half for future comfort.
Pack in lunchboxes (reheat safely).
Cultural Context
Inspired by Philadelphia’s legendary cheesesteak and American casserole culture, this recipe celebrates how beloved street food can be transformed into something cozy, shareable, and deeply satisfying. Found at game nights, church suppers, and creative kitchens alike, it honors the joy of turning simple ingredients into something truly special.
Pro Tips
Double the recipe? Yes—perfect for feeding a crowd.
Want more heat? Add cayenne, hot sauce, or jalapeños to the veggie mix.
Make ahead: Assemble unbaked casserole and refrigerate overnight. Bake when ready.
Label your dish: People will ask for the recipe.
Say “ready?” before serving —it’s part of the ritual.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use frozen vegetables?
A: Yes—but thaw and drain well to avoid watery sauce.
Q: Why did my casserole turn out runny?
A: Likely underbaked or too much liquid. Ensure full cooking time and drain beef well.
Q: Is this gluten-free?
A: Yes—if using GF-certified Worcestershire sauce and verifying all ingredients.
Q: Can I make it in a slow cooker?
A: Absolutely! Cook base on LOW 3–4 hours. Broil top briefly afterward for color.
Q: Can I air fry individual portions?
A: Yes! Air fry at 375°F for 8–10 mins, turning halfway.
Allergy Information
Contains: dairy (cream cheese, cheese), eggs, wheat (in some processed meats/sauces).
Gluten-free option: Use certified GF Worcestershire and verify labels.
Nut-free: This recipe is naturally nut-free.
Always check labels—especially on processed meats, sauces, and cheeses.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Approximate)
Based on 8 servings
Calories: 380
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 6g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 3g
Protein: 26g
Sodium: 680mg
This casserole doesn’t shout. It emerges golden from the oven, bubbling and fragrant, saying everything a great meal should: “Sit down. Eat. You’re taken care of.” That’s how the best ones begin—not with fanfare, but with beef, boldness, and someone who says, “Let’s make it together.”
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