If you’re looking for a delicious way to enjoy a classic Philly cheesesteak without the carbs, look no further! This Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is the ultimate comfort food.
This dish is hearty, cheesy, and loaded with flavor, making it perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. As someone who loves both simplicity and flavor, I can personally vouch for how satisfying this casserole is, with each bite bursting with melted cheese, savory ground beef, and colorful bell peppers. The creaminess of the sauce combined with the rich flavors is simply irresistible, and it’s a dish that will have you coming back for seconds!
Table of Contents
Why is this Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole Perfect for Any Occasion?
“This casserole combines the beloved flavors of a classic cheesesteak while being low in carbs.”
This Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is the ideal recipe to try right now, especially if you’re focusing on healthier eating or simply looking to spice up your meal rotations. It’s comforting and satisfying, which is just what you need in the chilly months, but it’s also light enough to enjoy year-round. This dish is great for family dinners or dinner parties, and it pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables. Plus, it’s gluten-free and perfect for those on a low-carb diet. You’ll definitely want to check out my Keto Philly Cheesesteak Rolls for another twist on this classic!
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Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole
A hearty, cheesy, low-carb version of the classic Philly cheesesteak in casserole form. Packed with ground beef, bell peppers, onions, cream cheese, and gooey provolone and mozzarella, perfect for any weeknight dinner or gathering.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
2 lbs ground beef (80/20 fat ratio preferred)
1 large onion, diced
2 large bell peppers (green, red, or mixed), diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
Salt and pepper, to taste
8 oz provolone cheese, sliced
1.5 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare the baking dish:Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9×13 baking dish with non-stick spray for easy cleanup.
- Sauté vegetables:Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and bell peppers. Cook for 5–6 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add garlic:Stir in minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until aromatic.
- Cook the beef:Add ground beef to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 7–8 minutes until browned with no pink remaining. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Make it creamy:Add Worcestershire sauce and reduce heat. Mix in softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the casserole:Transfer the beef mixture into the prepared baking dish. Tear provolone slices and layer over the beef, then sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top.
- Bake and serve:Bake for 22–25 minutes until cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Serve with a side salad, steamed broccoli, or cauliflower rice for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
What Makes This Version of Philly Cheesesteak Casserole Stand Out?
“This casserole elevates the classic dish to new heights with its rich flavors and easy preparation.”
Flavor Punch
Unlike traditional Philly cheesesteaks, this casserole allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a rich and creamy experience. The addition of cream cheese provides a smooth texture, while Worcestershire sauce adds a depth of flavor that elevates the dish.
Texture Balance
The combination of sautéed onions and bell peppers not only adds a pop of color but also gives the casserole a satisfying crunch that contrasts perfectly with the gooey cheese. The blend of provolone and mozzarella offers a delightful stretch, making every bite a cheesy dream.
Simple Ingredients
What’s great about this recipe is that it utilizes simple, readily available ingredients while still delivering maximum flavor impact. You can use any bell peppers you have on hand, and it can easily be adjusted for different tastes. Check out this High Protein Chicken Parmesan Casserole for another delightful meal!
What Ingredients Do You Need for Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole?
“These ingredients are not only easy to find but also contribute to a flavorful dish.”
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground beef | 2 lbs (80/20 fat ratio preferred) |
| Large onion | 1 (diced) |
| Large bell peppers | 2 (green, red, or mixed, diced) |
| Garlic | 2 cloves (minced) |
| Cream cheese | 8 oz (softened to room temperature) |
| Worcestershire sauce | 2 tbsp |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
| Provolone cheese | 8 oz (sliced) |
| Mozzarella cheese | 1.5 cups (shredded) |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp |
Ground beef is a fantastic source of protein and is what gives this casserole its heartiness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can substitute with ground turkey or chicken to keep the dish lighter without sacrificing flavor. Each of these substitutions will alter the nutritional profile, but they will still taste delicious. Alongside, the cheese offers calcium, while the bell peppers are rich in vitamins, particularly vitamin C, making this meal both indulgent and nourishing. To discover more about the health benefits of vegetables, check out this guide on vegetables!
How Do You Make this Scrumptious Casserole Step-by-Step?
“Making this casserole is straightforward, and the results are impressive!”
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9×13 baking dish with non-stick spray for easy cleanup.
Step 2
Heat olive oil on medium heat in a large skillet. Add diced onions and bell peppers, cooking for about 5-6 minutes until softened and fragrant. The colors will brighten up, making it visually appealing.
Step 3
Add minced garlic, stirring for an additional 30 seconds to prevent burning and intensify its flavor.
Step 4
Introduce the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart as it cooks. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for 7-8 minutes or until it’s nicely browned without any pink spots.
Step 5
If there’s excess fat, drain it off. Stir in Worcestershire sauce for that umami kick, then lower the heat and mix in the softened cream cheese until melted and creamy. The mixture will become a luscious filling.
Step 6
Transfer this mix into your prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Tear provolone cheese and layer it over the beef mixture, finishing off with a generous sprinkle of shredded mozzarella cheese.
Step 7
Bake in the preheated oven for 22-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done once the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden. Allow it to rest for 5 minutes before serving, letting the flavors meld beautifully.
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
|---|---|
| Cook Time | 25 minutes |
| Total Time | 40 minutes |
| Store | In an airtight container, refrigerated for up to 3 days. |
Visual cues to watch for include the bubbling cheese and the slight browning on top ; it’s hard not to get excited at this point! Explore more delicious dumpling recipes.
Different Ways to Serve and Enjoy Your Casserole
“There are plenty of variations to make this casserole your own!”
Diet Swap
If you want to make this dish even healthier, consider swapping out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. Both options will maintain the comforting essence of the dish while reducing the fat content.
Flavor Variation
To amp up the flavor, consider adding some jalapeños for a spicy kick or incorporating various cheese blends according to your preference. Want something more unique? Try adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach for added components!
Serving Idea
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a light side salad or steamed broccoli, making for a well-rounded meal. Additionally, serving it with a dollop of sour cream or guacamole can take the flavors up a notch.
| Suggested Pairings / Tips |
|---|
| Simple Side Salad |
| Steamed Broccoli with Lemon |
| Dollop of Sour Cream |
| Chopped Fresh Herbs, like Parsley or Chives |
| Serving with Steamed Rice (for non-low-carb) or Cauliflower Rice (for low-carb) |
Final Thoughts on Your Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole
This Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole has quickly become a household favorite at my home, delivering cozy comfort without any guilt. The combination of melted cheese, seasoned meat, and colorful veggies makes it an inviting dish that satisfies any craving. It’s filling without being heavy, and it stores beautifully, making meal prep a breeze. So, whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner solution or just a way to enjoy the flavors of a classic cheesesteak, give this recipe a try! Don’t forget to share your finished dish on Pinterest! Pin it Here!
FAQ
What ingredients are in a Philly cheesesteak?
A classic Philly cheesesteak is made with thinly sliced ribeye steak, sautéed onions, and melted cheese, often provolone, Cheez Whiz, or American cheese. Some versions also include bell peppers or mushrooms, though purists stick to the basics. All ingredients are layered inside a soft hoagie roll.
What is Philly cheesesteak casserole?
A Philly cheesesteak casserole is a baked dish inspired by the traditional sandwich but prepared in a one-pan format. It typically includes seasoned beef, onions, peppers, and melted cheese combined with pasta, potatoes, or a creamy base. The result is a hearty, low-effort meal that captures the flavor of the original sandwich.
How to make a steak casserole?
To make a steak casserole, start by browning sliced or cubed beef with onions, garlic, and your choice of vegetables. Combine it with a sauce or creamy mixture, add starch like pasta or potatoes, top with cheese or breadcrumbs, and bake until bubbly and golden. It’s an easy, flexible recipe that adapts to whatever ingredients you have on hand.
What is the secret ingredient in Philly cheesesteak?
Many say the “secret” ingredient is the ultra-thinly sliced ribeye, which cooks quickly and absorbs flavor. Others insist the magic comes from the cheese, especially Cheez Whiz, for its creamy, melty texture. The combination of tender beef, caramelized onions, and perfectly melted cheese is what truly defines the iconic taste.
What kind of sauce goes with Philly cheesesteak?
Philly cheesesteaks traditionally skip heavy sauces and rely on melted cheese for creaminess. However, popular additions include garlic aioli, horseradish mayo, chipotle sauce, or a simple cheese sauce made from provolone or Cheez Whiz. These sauces enhance the sandwich without overpowering the beef and onions.
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