Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

This Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is perfect for a cozy dinner or meal prep for the week. It’s rich, cheesy, and packed with flavor, making it a hit for both family dinners and gatherings. The combination of ground beef, colorful bell peppers, and melted cheese creates a satisfying dish that is low in carbs but high in protein. Enjoy this delightful casserole any night of the week!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep time, this casserole comes together quickly.
• Flavorful and Savory: The mix of ground beef, cream cheese, and spices delivers a comforting taste that everyone will love.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect for dinner parties or weeknight meals; it’s a dish that suits any occasion.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance and enjoy the convenience of a ready-to-bake meal.
• Kid-Approved: The cheesy goodness will appeal to kids and adults alike!

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, gather these essential tools.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-stick spray
• 9×13 baking dish
• Large skillet
• Spatula
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick spray: Ensures your casserole won’t stick to the baking dish, making cleanup easier.
• Large skillet: Provides ample space for browning the meat and sautéing vegetables evenly.
• Spatula: Ideal for breaking up the meat while cooking and mixing ingredients thoroughly.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

This Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is a cheesy, savory dinner loaded with steak and veggies. Make ahead for a comforting, protein-rich meal!

For the Meat Mixture

• 2 lbs ground beef
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 large bell peppers (green, red, or a mix), diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 oz (1 package) cream cheese
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Cheese Topping

• 8 oz provolone cheese, sliced
• 1½ cups mozzarella cheese, shredded

For Cooking

• 1 tbsp olive oil

How to Make Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9×13 baking dish with non-stick spray to ensure your casserole won’t stick.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
* Add the diced onions and bell peppers.
* Cook for about 5-6 minutes until they begin to soften.
* Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Brown the Beef

Add the ground beef to the skillet with the vegetables.
* Season with salt and pepper to taste.
* Cook while breaking up the meat with a spatula until completely browned, about 7-8 minutes.

Step 4: Add Flavoring

Stir in the Worcestershire sauce.
* Allow it to coat the meat mixture evenly.

Step 5: Incorporate Cream Cheese

Reduce heat to low.
* Add the softened cream cheese to the skillet.
* Stir until it melts completely, coating everything evenly.

Step 6: Assemble Casserole

Once fully combined:
* Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish.
* Spread it evenly across the bottom.

Step 7: Layer Cheese

Layer the sliced provolone cheese over the beef mixture.
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top.

Step 8: Bake

Place in your preheated oven.
Bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top.

Step 9: Cool Before Serving

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

How to Serve Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

This Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or enjoying a cozy night in, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Garden Salad: A mix of greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers dressed lightly to balance the richness of the casserole.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing, croutons, and Parmesan for a classic touch.

Add Some Crunch

• Vegetable Chips: Serve crunchy vegetable chips on the side for a delightful contrast in texture.
• Pickles or Olives: These add a tangy kick that complements the savory flavors of the casserole.

Offer Extra Toppings

• Sliced Jalapeños: For those who love heat, fresh jalapeños can spice up each serving.
• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top for added freshness.

How to Perfect Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

To achieve the best results with your Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole, consider these tips for an improved cooking experience.

• Use Quality Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef to reduce excess grease while still keeping it flavorful.
• Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to swap bell peppers with other favorites like mushrooms or zucchini for variety.
• Melt Cheese Thoroughly: Make sure your cream cheese melts completely before transferring it to the baking dish; this ensures a smooth texture.
• Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on the casserole during baking; every oven is different, and you want that perfect golden cheese topping.

Best Side Dishes for Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

Enhance your meal by pairing this casserole with complementary side dishes. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Green Beans: Lightly sautéed green beans with garlic add a fresh crunch.
2. Riced Cauliflower: A low-carb alternative that absorbs flavors beautifully; sauté with herbs for extra taste.
3. Zucchini Noodles: Spiralized zucchini tossed with olive oil makes for a light and healthy side.
4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted sprouts seasoned with salt and pepper provide a nutritious addition.
5. Cauliflower Mash: Creamy mashed cauliflower serves as a great substitute for traditional mashed potatoes.
6. Stuffed Mushrooms: Filled with cheese and herbs, these bite-sized treats complement the casserole perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to keep in mind:

• Skipping the Preheat: Not preheating your oven can lead to uneven cooking and longer cooking times. Always preheat before baking.
• Not Seasoning Enough: Failing to properly season your dish can result in bland flavors. Make sure you taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
• Using Cold Cream Cheese: Adding cold cream cheese can cause clumps in your mixture. Soften it at room temperature first for a smooth texture.
• Overcrowding the Skillet: Adding too much meat or vegetables at once can prevent proper browning. Cook in batches if necessary for better flavor development.
• Skipping Rest Time: Cutting into the casserole immediately after baking can make it fall apart. Allowing it to rest helps it set and enhances flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 20 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individual portions on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat on low in a skillet, stirring occasionally until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole:

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey works well as a leaner alternative while still providing great flavor.

How can I customize my Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole?

Feel free to add mushrooms, zucchini, or other favorite vegetables to enhance nutrition and taste.

What is the best way to serve this casserole?

Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs or alongside a green salad for a balanced meal.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it up to a day ahead and simply bake when ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

This Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is not only delicious but also versatile. It’s perfect as a hearty family meal or for meal prep throughout the week. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or cheeses to suit your tastes!