Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

This Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is a delicious and hearty dish that brings together the rich flavors of beef, cheese, and vegetables into one satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep, this casserole is sure to please everyone at your table. The combination of creamy cheese and tender meat makes it a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you can have this casserole ready in under an hour.
• Flavorful: The blend of ground beef, cream cheese, and melted provolone creates a mouthwatering taste experience.
• Versatile: Great for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep; this dish is perfect for various occasions.
• Low Carb Friendly: Enjoy a comforting meal without the extra carbs often found in traditional cheesesteaks.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or spices to make it your own!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, gather all the necessary tools for a smooth cooking experience. Having the right equipment makes preparation easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• 9×13 baking dish
• Spatula
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Essential for browning the beef and sautéing the vegetables evenly.
• 9×13 baking dish: Ideal size for holding the casserole while it bakes to perfection.
• Spatula: Useful for breaking up the meat and mixing ingredients smoothly during cooking.

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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 Casserole

• 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
• 8 oz provolone cheese, sliced
• 1½ cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 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 prevent sticking.

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 cooked 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 Flavorings

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

Step 5: Make it Creamy

Reduce heat to low.
* Add the softened cream cheese to the skillet.
* Stir until it melts completely and coats the meat mixture evenly.

Step 6: Assemble Casserole

Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
* Spread it evenly across the bottom.

Step 7: Layer Cheeses

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

Step 8: Bake It

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

Step 9: Serve It Up

Allow casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving.
This helps flavors meld together for an even better taste experience!

How to Serve Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

This Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is not only delicious but also versatile when it comes to serving. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this hearty dish.

With a Fresh Salad

• A side of mixed greens tossed with a light vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the casserole while adding a refreshing crunch.

Over Cauliflower Rice

• Serve your casserole over cauliflower rice for an extra low-carb option that absorbs the savory juices and adds texture.

With Avocado Slices

• Creamy avocado slices provide a smooth contrast to the cheesy casserole, enhancing both flavor and nutrition.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish your serving with fresh parsley or cilantro to add a pop of color and an aromatic touch that brightens up every bite.

How to Perfect Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

To ensure your Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Quality Meat: Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option. This will keep the casserole hearty without excess grease.
• Don’t Skip the Cheese: Provolone and mozzarella cheese are key for that creamy, gooey texture. Make sure to use good quality cheese for the best results.
• Chop Veggies Evenly: Dicing onions and bell peppers uniformly ensures even cooking, giving you consistent texture throughout the dish.
• Let it Rest: Allowing the casserole to sit for a few minutes after baking helps it set. This makes it easier to serve and allows flavors to meld beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

Pairing your casserole with delicious sides can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great side dishes that go well with Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole.

1. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients while keeping carbs low.
2. Zucchini Noodles: Spiralized zucchini offers a fun twist and serves as a fantastic low-carb alternative to pasta.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts bring out their natural sweetness, complementing the savory casserole perfectly.
4. Garlic Mashed Cauliflower: Creamy mashed cauliflower flavored with garlic provides a comforting side without the carbs of traditional mashed potatoes.
5. Sautéed Spinach: Quick sautéed spinach seasoned with garlic adds a healthy green element that’s quick to prepare.
6. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in lemon juice is perfect for balancing the richness of the casserole while adding crunch.
7. Riced Broccoli: Broccoli rice is another excellent low-carb option that pairs well with robust flavors.
8. Green Bean Almondine: Crisp green beans sautéed with almonds add both texture and flavor, rounding out your meal beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking can be tricky, and it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls when preparing your Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole.

• Skipping the Preheat: Always preheat your oven before baking. This ensures that your casserole cooks evenly and the cheese melts properly.
• Overcooking Vegetables: Be careful not to cook your vegetables too long. They should be softened but still have a bit of crunch for the best texture.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Don’t forget to season your meat and veggies adequately. A little salt and pepper can elevate the flavors significantly.
• Using Cold Cream Cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is softened before mixing it in. This helps it melt more smoothly into the meat mixture.
• Not Letting It Rest: Allowing the casserole to rest after baking is crucial. This helps the layers set and makes serving easier.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• item Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness and flavor.

Freezing Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

• item You can freeze the casserole for up to 2-3 months.
• item Use a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

• item Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• item Microwave: Heat individual portions on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through.
• item Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute! It will still give you that hearty texture but with less fat.

How can I customize my Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole?

You can add your favorite vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini, or even swap cheeses based on your preference.

What sides pair well with this casserole?

A fresh green salad or steamed broccoli complements this dish perfectly while keeping it low carb.

How do I make this dish spicier?

Add diced jalapeños or sprinkle red pepper flakes into the meat mixture for an extra kick!

Final Thoughts

This Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is not only delicious but also adaptable to suit various tastes. With its cheesy goodness and protein-rich ingredients, it makes for a satisfying meal any day of the week. Feel free to customize it with different vegetables or cheeses based on what you enjoy!