Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

Discover the Comfort of Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

Looking to indulge in a rich and delicious dish without the guilt of carbs? The Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is your answer! My experience with this recipe has been nothing short of rewarding—it’s a dish that combines the classic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak into a warm, satisfying casserole. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings with family and friends, this dish makes it easy to enjoy a beloved favorite while keeping your carb intake in check.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a hearty casserole, especially one that captures the essence of a classic favorite like the Philly cheesesteak. Here’s why you should whip up this dish in your own kitchen:

• Quick & Easy: With straightforward steps and minimal prep time, this casserole is great for those busy weeknights.
• Budget-Friendly: Utilizing ground beef and affordable pantry staples makes it an economical meal option.
• Kid-Approved: Kids can’t resist cheesy goodness, and with all those delicious toppings, they’ll be asking for seconds.
• Versatile: Perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or even potlucks; it’s bound to please a crowd!

"This casserole is the perfect blend of flavors! It’s delicious and filling, and my kids gobbled it up!" – Happy Home Cook

The Cooking Process Explained

Making this Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is a breeze, and the process flows as smoothly as the flavors come together. Here’s a quick overview of what to expect:

1. Sauté your veggies until soft.
2. Brown the ground beef and mix in seasonings.
3. Combine with cream cheese for that creamy texture.
4. Layer with cheese and bake until bubbly and golden.

Simple, right? Let’s break down the ingredients needed to make this comfort food dream come true.

What You’ll Need

Before diving into the cooking, gather these essentials that make this dish irresistible:

• 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

Feel free to swap in different meats or cheeses to suit your taste or dietary preferences!

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously spray a 9×13 baking dish with non-stick spray.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add diced onions and bell peppers, cooking for 5-6 minutes until softened and fragrant.
4. Stir in minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds, being careful not to burn it.
5. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Season with salt and pepper, and cook for 7-8 minutes, ensuring it’s browned with no pink remaining. Drain excess fat if necessary.
6. Stir in Worcestershire sauce to enhance the flavor of the meat mixture. Reduce heat to low and mix in the softened cream cheese, stirring until fully melted and creamy.
7. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
8. Layer with torn provolone pieces over the beef, then sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top for that iconic cheese pull.
9. Bake for 22-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melting, bubbly, and lightly golden. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

To elevate your dining experience, serve this casserole with sides that complement its robust flavors:

• Fresh green salad: A simple side salad can balance the richness.
• Cauliflower rice: For those looking to keep carbs low, it pairs beautifully.
• Garlic bread: A classic side to soak up all that cheesy goodness.

Keeping Leftovers Fresh

Have leftovers? Here’s how to store and reheat your casserole properly:

• Refrigerate: Seal in an airtight container and enjoy within 3-4 days.
• Freeze: Wrap it tightly and store for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Microwave in short bursts or reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through. Always ensure thorough heating to maintain food safety.

Pro Chef Tips

• Beef Variations: For an extra flavor kick, try using a combination of ground beef and Italian sausage.
• Vegetable Additions: Sneak in some mushrooms or spinach for added nutrition without compromising flavor.
• Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or gouda for a unique twist.

Creative Twists

Looking to customize your casserole? Here are a few creative variations:

• Spice it up: Add jalapeños for a kick.
• Low Fat: Substitute lower-fat cream cheese and opt for leaner ground turkey.
• Gluten-Free: All ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making it an excellent option for those with dietary restrictions.

Common Questions

What is the prep time for this dish?

Preparation typically takes about 15-20 minutes.

Can I use different meats in this recipe?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be great alternatives for a healthier version.

How should I serve this casserole?

Serve warm straight from the oven, garnished with fresh herbs for added freshness and flavor.

How long can I store leftovers?

You can keep leftovers stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days or freeze them for up to 3 months.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble it in advance and refrigerate it; just adjust the baking time.

Final Thoughts

What’s better than sitting down to a warm, cheesy meal that brings everyone together? This Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to leave a comment sharing your experience! Enjoy your meal!

Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

A rich and delicious meal that captures the flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak in a warm, comforting casserole, perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 450

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 fat ratio preferred) Ensure to brown it well during cooking.
• 1 large onion, diced Adds sweetness and flavor.
• 2 large bell peppers (green, red, or mixed), diced Adds color and sweetness.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced Enhances flavor in the dish.
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature For a creamy texture.
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce Adds depth to the beef flavor.
• to taste salt and pepper Season according to preference.
• 8 oz provolone cheese, sliced For layering on top of the beef.
• 1.5 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded Provides the cheesy topping.
• 1 tbsp olive oil Used for sautéing the vegetables.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously spray a 9×13 baking dish with non-stick spray.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add diced onions and bell peppers, cooking for 5-6 minutes until softened and fragrant.
4. Stir in minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds, being careful not to burn it.
5. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Season with salt and pepper, and cook for 7-8 minutes, ensuring it’s browned with no pink remaining. Drain excess fat if necessary.
6. Stir in Worcestershire sauce to enhance the flavor of the meat mixture. Reduce heat to low and mix in the softened cream cheese, stirring until fully melted and creamy.
7. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
8. Layer with torn provolone pieces over the beef, then sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top.
9. Bake for 22-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melting, bubbly, and lightly golden. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

For leftovers, seal in an airtight container and enjoy within 3-4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or oven.