Smoky Philly Cheesesteak Casserole Recipe: A Hearty Family Hit

My latest kitchen experiment with a smoked philly cheesesteak casserole caught everyone’s attention at last weekend’s potluck.

Friends couldn’t stop asking about this incredible dish that blends classic sandwich flavors into a comforting baked masterpiece.

Tender beef strips mingle with caramelized onions and melted cheese in a way that feels both familiar and exciting.

Hearty layers promise maximum flavor without complicated preparation techniques.

Each bite delivers rich, smoky notes that remind us why comfort food never goes out of style.

The combination of traditional philly cheesesteak ingredients makes this casserole irresistibly delicious.

Grab a fork and get ready to experience a crowd-pleasing meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.

FAQs On Smoked Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

• What makes this casserole different from a traditional Philly cheesesteak?

This casserole combines the classic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak with a smoky twist by using a pellet smoker, which infuses the dish with rich hickory or oak wood flavor that traditional stovetop recipes can’t achieve.

• Can I use different types of steak for this recipe?

While ribeye is recommended for its tenderness and marbling, you can substitute with sirloin or strip steak. Just ensure the meat is thinly sliced for the best texture and easier smoking.

• Do I need special equipment to make this casserole?

A pellet smoker is ideal, but you can use a regular oven if needed. The pellet smoker adds a unique smoky depth that enhances the overall taste of the dish, making it more special than a standard oven-baked casserole.

• Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This casserole can be prepared ahead of time and reheated, making it perfect for busy weeknights or planning meals in advance. The flavors actually improve as they meld together, creating an even more delicious dish.

Why Folks Love Smoked Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

• Smoke-Infused Flavor Explosion: Enjoy a unique twist on the classic Philly cheesesteak with rich, smoky hickory or oak wood pellet flavor that transforms this casserole into a mouthwatering masterpiece.
• Minimal Prep, Maximum Enjoyment: This recipe requires simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, making it perfect for busy home cooks who want a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Crowd-Pleasing Comfort Food: Packed with tender beef, melted cheese, and classic Philly cheesesteak ingredients, this casserole brings everyone together for a satisfying and hearty dinner that appeals to both kids and adults.
• Low-and-Slow Cooking Technique: The low-temperature smoking method ensures tender, juicy meat and allows flavors to develop deeply, creating a restaurant-quality dish right in your own backyard.

What You’ll Need For Smoked Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

• Ribeye Steak: The star of the dish, rich and tender cut perfect for authentic Philly cheesesteak flavor.
• Ground Beef: Adds extra meaty depth and helps create a hearty casserole texture.

• Provolone Cheese, Cream Cheese: Creamy components that provide classic Philly cheesesteak meltiness and rich flavor.
• Sour Cream: Adds tangy moisture and helps bind the casserole ingredients.

• Green Bell Peppers, White Onions: Traditional Philly cheesesteak vegetables that bring crunch and sweet aromatics.
• Garlic: Provides robust, deep flavor base for the entire dish.
• Salt, Black Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance and balance the meat and vegetable flavors.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Adds umami depth and complexity to the meat mixture.
• Dried Thyme: Subtle herb that complements the smoky meat flavors.

Steps To Cook Smoked Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

Step 1: Fire Up The Smoker

Prepare your Traeger or pellet smoker by setting the temperature to 225°F. Choose hickory or oak pellets to infuse a rich, smoky essence into your casserole.

Step 2: Prepare Delicious Ingredients

• Thinly sliced beef
• Bell peppers
• Onions
• Cream cheese
• Provolone cheese
• Mozzarella cheese
• Sliced mushrooms
• Garlic
• Salt
• Black pepper

Step 3: Slice And Dice

Chop bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms into bite-sized pieces. Mince garlic finely to release its robust flavor.

Step 4: Sauté Veggie Goodness

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté the chopped vegetables until they become tender and slightly caramelized, creating a delightful flavor foundation.

Step 5: Brown The Beef

In the same skillet, cook the beef slices until they turn golden brown and develop a beautiful sear. Season with salt and black pepper.

Step 6: Create Cheesy Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, provolone, and mozzarella. Stir until the cheeses start to blend smoothly.

Step 7: Assemble The Casserole

Layer the sautéed vegetables and browned beef in a cast-iron skillet or baking dish. Pour the cheese mixture over the top, ensuring even coverage.

Step 8: Smoke To Perfection

Place the casserole in the preheated smoker. Let it cook for approximately 1 hour, allowing the smoke to penetrate and enhance the flavors.

Step 9: Check For Doneness

The casserole is ready when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges start to turn golden brown.

Step 10: Serve And Enjoy

Remove from the smoker, let it rest for a few minutes, then slice and serve hot. Watch your friends and family devour this incredible Smoked Philly Cheesesteak Casserole.

Tips To Make Smoked Philly Cheesesteak Casserole Better

• Optimize Smoky Flavor: Choose hickory or oak pellets to infuse rich, deep smoky notes into your casserole, enhancing the traditional Philly cheesesteak taste profile.
• Control Temperature Precision: Maintain a consistent 225°F on your Traeger or pellet smoker to ensure even cooking and prevent drying out the meat and cheese layers.
• Slice Meat Strategically: Cut beef thinly against the grain to guarantee tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture that captures authentic cheesesteak authenticity.
• Prep Ahead for Success: Assemble the casserole in advance and refrigerate to allow flavors to meld, creating a more complex and delicious final dish.
• Cheese Selection Matters: Use a blend of provolone and white American cheese for a classic Philly cheesesteak experience with perfect melting consistency.

How To Store Smoked Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Cool the casserole completely before storing to prevent moisture buildup.
• Gently reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of beef broth to maintain moisture and prevent drying out.
• Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months, wrapping tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.

Great Matches For Smoked Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

• Amplify Smoky Richness with Craft Beer: Pair this hearty casserole with a robust amber ale or smoky porter that complements the hickory-infused meat and enhances the deep, savory flavors.
• Cool Down with Tangy Slaw: Serve a crisp, vinegar-based coleslaw on the side to cut through the richness of the cheesesteak casserole and provide a refreshing counterpoint.
• Elevate with Red Wine Companion: Select a medium-bodied red like zinfandel or malbec, which can stand up to the smoky, meaty profile while adding a luxurious touch to the meal.
• Brighten with Pickled Vegetables: Add quick-pickled jalapeños or giardiniera to introduce a zesty, acidic element that balances the casserole's creamy and smoky characteristics.

Fun Variations Of Smoked Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

• Spicy Southwest Cheesesteak: Add diced jalapeños, green chiles, and swap provolone for pepper jack cheese to kick up the heat and bring southwestern flair to the classic recipe.
• Mediterranean Veggie Fusion: Replace beef with grilled eggplant and zucchini, incorporate feta cheese, and sprinkle oregano for a lighter Mediterranean-inspired version that keeps the casserole's core structure.
• Philly BBQ Crossover: Mix in barbecue sauce, top with crispy onion straws, and use smoked brisket instead of traditional steak to create a barbecue-style interpretation of the original dish.
• Lean Protein Makeover: Substitute beef with ground turkey or chicken, use low-fat cheese, and add extra bell peppers for a healthier protein-packed alternative that maintains the smoky essence.

Smoked Philly Cheesesteak Casserole Recipe

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4.9 from 9 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Hearty Smoked Philly Cheesesteak Casserole brings classic Philadelphian comfort straight to dinner tables with bold, meaty flavors. Melted cheese, tender beef, and smoky undertones create a satisfying meal you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Meats:

• 2 pounds (907 grams) ribeye or sirloin steak, thinly sliced

Vegetables:

• 2 bell peppers (green and red), sliced
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Dairy and Cheese:

• 8 ounces (226 grams) cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup (120 milliliters) heavy cream
• 1 cup (113 grams) shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese
• 6 slices provolone cheese

Seasonings and Sauces:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for tang)

Topping (Optional):

• ½ cup (30 grams) crushed pork rinds or breadcrumbs

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Instructions

1. Preheat the pellet smoker to a low and steady 225°F, selecting hickory or oak wood pellets to infuse the dish with a robust, smoky essence.
2. Thoroughly slice beef into thin, uniform strips, ensuring each piece will absorb the rich smoky undertones during cooking.
3. Dice onions and bell peppers into consistent, bite-sized pieces that will caramelize and complement the meat’s deep flavor profile.
4. Prepare a large baking dish by lightly coating with cooking spray to prevent any potential sticking during the smoking process.
5. Layer the sliced beef as the initial foundation, creating an even base that will absorb the smoke and develop a tender texture.
6. Distribute the chopped onions and bell peppers evenly across the meat, allowing their natural sweetness to meld with the smoky undertones.
7. Generously sprinkle shredded cheese over the meat and vegetable layer, ensuring complete coverage for a creamy, melted result.
8. If using cream cheese, dollop strategic spoonfuls across the surface to create pockets of rich, tangy flavor throughout the casserole.
9. Carefully transfer the baking dish to the preheated smoker, positioning it to ensure consistent heat circulation.
10. Smoke the casserole for approximately 60-75 minutes, or until the beef reaches desired tenderness and the cheese becomes perfectly melted and bubbly.
11. Once cooking is complete, carefully remove the casserole from the smoker and allow it to rest for 10 minutes, enabling flavors to settle and merge.
12. Slice and serve hot, garnishing with fresh chopped parsley or green onions for an additional layer of freshness and visual appeal.

Notes

• Smoking the casserole at a low temperature infuses rich, deep wood-fired flavor into every bite, transforming a classic sandwich into a rustic comfort dish.
• Slice beef ultra-thin to ensure tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture that absorbs smoky notes perfectly without becoming tough or chewy.
• Choose high-quality, well-marbled ribeye or sirloin steak for maximum flavor and juiciness during the slow smoking process.
• Prep ingredients in advance and let the casserole rest for 10-15 minutes after smoking to allow flavors to meld and cheese to set beautifully.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 600
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Fat: 45 g
• Saturated Fat: 20 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 22 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 8 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 40 g
• Cholesterol: 120 mg