Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

Who doesn’t love the savory, cheesy goodness of a Philly cheesesteak? Now imagine all the flavors of the classic sandwich—juicy beef, tender onions and peppers, and melty cheese—transformed into a low-carb, keto-friendly casserole. This Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is perfect for dinner, meal prep, or even entertaining friends, delivering all the indulgence of the original sandwich without the extra carbs from bread.

With 45 minutes from start to finish, it’s easy enough for a weeknight meal but impressive enough for a special dinner. Every bite combines hearty beef, sweet peppers, savory onions, and creamy cheese in a way that’s truly comforting and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

• Low-carb and keto-friendly – All the flavor of a traditional Philly cheesesteak without the bread.
• Cheesy and indulgent – Cream cheese, provolone, and mozzarella create a melty, creamy layer that’s irresistible.
• Hearty and filling – 2 pounds of ground beef make this a protein-packed meal.
• Packed with vegetables – Onions and bell peppers add flavor, texture, and nutrients.
• Family-friendly – Loved by adults and kids alike.
• Perfect for meal prep – Make ahead and reheat for a grab-and-go low-carb lunch or dinner.

Ingredients Breakdown

This recipe serves 6 portions. All measurements are exact for consistent results.

Main Ingredients

• 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 fat ratio preferred for juiciness)
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 large bell peppers (green, red, or mixed), diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Cheese & Creaminess

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
• 8 oz provolone cheese, sliced or torn into pieces
• 1.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Flavor Boosters

• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing vegetables)

Equipment Needed

• 9×13-inch baking dish, greased or sprayed with non-stick spray
• Large skillet for sautéing
• Oven preheated to 350°F (175°C)
• Spatula or wooden spoon for stirring
• Knife and cutting board for vegetables

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make the Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole perfectly every time:

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup easy.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and bell peppers and sauté for 5–6 minutes, until they start to soften and become fragrant. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring constantly to avoid burning.

3. Cook the Ground Beef

Add 2 lbs ground beef to the skillet. Break it up with a spatula and cook for 7–8 minutes, until fully browned with no pink remaining. Season generously with salt and pepper. Drain excess fat if necessary to prevent a greasy casserole.

4. Add Flavor and Creaminess

Stir in 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce, coating the beef mixture evenly. Reduce the heat to low and add 8 oz cream cheese, stirring until it melts and becomes fully incorporated. The cream cheese gives the casserole a rich, creamy texture that binds all ingredients together.

5. Assemble the Casserole

Transfer the beef and vegetable mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Layer torn provolone pieces on top, followed by 1.5 cups shredded mozzarella for a gooey, cheesy topping.

6. Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 22–25 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden on top.

7. Rest and Serve

Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together and makes slicing portions easier.

Tips & Variations

• Cheese alternatives: Swap mozzarella with cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Swiss for a different flavor profile.
• Vegetable variations: Add mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for extra nutrition.
• Spice it up: Add crushed red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or sliced jalapeños for a kick.
• Make it leaner: Use ground turkey or lean ground beef, but be mindful that it may be less juicy.
• Meal prep: Bake, cool, and refrigerate in portions for grab-and-go lunches or dinners.

Flavor Profile & Pairings

The Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is savory, cheesy, and slightly sweet from onions and bell peppers. The Worcestershire sauce adds depth and umami, while the cream cheese makes the filling creamy and luscious.

Suggested Side Dishes

• Simple green salad with a vinaigrette
• Roasted or steamed broccoli
• Garlic sautéed mushrooms
• Cauliflower rice for a complete low-carb meal

Nutritional Overview (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	485 kcal
Protein	35 g
Fat	36 g
Saturated Fat	16 g
Unsaturated Fat	20 g
Carbohydrates	7 g
Fiber	2 g
Sugar	2 g
Sodium	720 mg
Cholesterol	120 mg

Dietary Notes: Low-carb, keto-friendly, high-protein, gluten-free.

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

• Vegetables: Dice and sauté ahead of time, then store in fridge until ready to assemble.
• Beef mixture: Cook beef with cream cheese and store in airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Assembling: Layer cheese and bake when ready to serve.
• Freezing: Assemble casserole without provolone and mozzarella, cover tightly, and freeze. Bake from frozen, adding 10–15 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use lean ground beef?
Yes, but using 80/20 beef ensures juiciness and flavor. Leaner beef may result in a drier casserole.

2. Can I make this dairy-free?
Substitute cream cheese and cheeses with plant-based alternatives.

3. Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini work well.

4. Can I prep this for meal prep?
Yes! Assemble and refrigerate, then bake when ready. Great for lunches or easy dinners.

5. Can I make it spicier?
Add red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños while sautéing vegetables.

Cooking Timeline (At a Glance)

Step	Time
Preheat oven & prepare dish	5 mins
Sauté vegetables	6 mins
Cook ground beef	7–8 mins
Add cream cheese & Worcestershire	3 mins
Assemble casserole & layer cheese	5 mins
Bake	22–25 mins
Rest	5 mins
Total	45 mins

Serving Suggestions

• Slice casserole into portions and serve with steamed veggies for a complete low-carb meal.
• Top with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for color and flavor.
• Pair with a side salad or roasted cauliflower for extra greens.

Recipe Variations

1. Cheddar Philly Casserole: Replace provolone and mozzarella with sharp cheddar.
2. Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or hot sauce for a spicier version.
3. Veggie-Loaded: Add mushrooms, spinach, and zucchini for a more nutrient-dense meal.
4. Meal-Prep Friendly: Assemble in individual containers and bake as needed.

Ingredient Spotlight

Ground Beef (80/20): Adds rich flavor and moisture, creating a juicy, tender casserole. Avoid lean beef to maintain creaminess.

Bell Peppers & Onions: Provide color, texture, and natural sweetness that balances the savory beef and cheese.

Cream Cheese: Melts into the beef mixture, creating a creamy, cohesive filling.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Brown beef thoroughly for maximum flavor.
• Sauté vegetables until slightly tender but not mushy to maintain texture.
• Let casserole rest 5 minutes after baking to set.
• Use high-quality cheeses for best melt and flavor.

Storage & Freezing Guide

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3–4 days.
• Freezing: Assemble without cheeses, freeze in airtight container, and bake from frozen.
• Reheating: Oven preferred for best texture; microwave works for convenience.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount	Notes
Calories	485 kcal	Protein-packed comfort meal
Protein	35 g	High-quality protein from beef
Fat	36 g	Includes saturated and unsaturated fats
Carbs	7 g	Low-carb, keto-friendly
Fiber	2 g	From bell peppers and onions
Sodium	720 mg	Adjust salt if desired

Expanded Conclusion

This Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is comfort food reimagined for a carb-conscious lifestyle. Every bite delivers the flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak—savory beef, sweet peppers, onions, and a gooey cheese topping—without the bread.

It’s quick, satisfying, and perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or entertaining. With a creamy filling and melty cheese, it’s a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. Give this casserole a try and enjoy a low-carb twist on a classic favorite.

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