Craving a rich, cheesy dinner that fits your low-carb goals? This Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is hearty, creamy, and full of flavor. It’s packed with protein, loaded with peppers and onions, and baked until bubbly. Perfect for busy weeknights or satisfying meal prep!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak
If you love the taste of a classic Philly cheesesteak but want to keep things light, this recipe is for you. It skips the bread but keeps all the flavor. The mix of juicy beef, sautéed veggies, and melty cheese makes every bite rich and satisfying. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, takes less than 45 minutes, and reheats beautifully. You’ll get a high-protein, low-carb dinner that’s simple, comforting, and kid-approved.
Flavor and Texture Highlights
This casserole is creamy, cheesy, and full of savory flavor. The soft cream cheese blends with melted mozzarella and provolone for a rich, gooey texture. The onions and peppers add sweetness and crunch, while the ground beef gives it that classic Philly bite.
Macro-Friendly and High-Protein Benefits
Each serving is about 485 calories and packed with protein, keeping you full for hours. The low-carb profile makes it great for keto or high-protein diets. It’s satisfying without the carbs of bread or pasta, and it works great for meal prep or post-workout fuel.
Ingredients You’ll Need For Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak
You’ll need just a few everyday ingredients to create this tasty casserole. Ground beef, onions, and bell peppers form the savory base, while Worcestershire sauce and garlic bring depth. Cream cheese adds creaminess, and the mozzarella and provolone create that signature melt.
Core Ingredients and Their Roles
Ground beef gives the dish hearty flavor and texture. Onions and bell peppers bring color and sweetness, balancing the richness of the cheese. Garlic adds aroma, while Worcestershire sauce enhances the umami taste. Cream cheese creates a creamy base, and the mozzarella and provolone ensure every bite is gooey and delicious.
Substitutions and Variations
You can add sliced mushrooms for more depth or swap the cheeses for cheddar or Swiss. Want some heat? Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes. If you prefer a leaner option, ground turkey works too. Each version keeps the low-carb, high-protein balance intact.
How to Make Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole
Making this casserole is quick and simple. You’ll cook the veggies, brown the beef, mix in the creamy base, and bake until bubbly.
Prep the Vegetables
Dice the onion and bell peppers evenly so they cook at the same rate. Mince the garlic and set it aside for later.
Sauté Onions, Peppers, and Garlic
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and peppers, cooking for about 5-6 minutes until they’re soft and fragrant. Stir in garlic for 30 seconds to release its flavor.
Brown the Ground Beef and Season
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it up as it cooks and season with salt and pepper. Continue until the meat is browned and no pink remains. Drain any excess grease for a cleaner texture.
Create the Creamy Cheesesteak Base
Stir in Worcestershire sauce and softened cream cheese. Mix until the beef mixture becomes smooth and creamy. This step adds the signature cheesesteak creaminess.
Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the beef mixture to a greased 9×13 baking dish. Spread evenly and top with torn provolone pieces, then sprinkle mozzarella over the top.
Bake Until Golden and Bubbly
Bake at 350°F for 22–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden on top. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Serving Size, Calories per Serving, and What to Expect After Baking
Each serving is one-sixth of the casserole, about 485 calories. Expect a rich, bubbly dish with creamy texture and perfectly browned cheese.
Tips for Best Results
For the best casserole texture and taste, use fresh, high-quality ingredients and avoid excess grease.
How to Prevent Excess Grease
Use 80/20 beef for flavor, but drain the fat completely after browning. This keeps the casserole firm and prevents a greasy top.
Choosing the Right Cheeses
Provolone adds the classic Philly flavor, while mozzarella provides that gooey stretch. You can also mix in a bit of cheddar for a sharper taste.
Adjusting Texture and Richness
If you want it lighter, use less cream cheese or swap with reduced-fat versions. For a thicker base, add more shredded cheese before baking.
What to Serve with Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak
This casserole pairs well with fresh, light sides to balance its rich, cheesy flavor.
Low Carb Veggie Sides
Try serving with roasted asparagus, zucchini noodles, or a crisp side salad. These options keep your meal light yet satisfying.
Fresh and Light Pairings to Balance the Richness
Cauliflower rice, cucumber salad, or steamed broccoli make great companions. For a cozy combo, pair it with high-protein broccoli cheddar soup.
Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Guide
This casserole stores and reheats beautifully, making it great for meal prep.
Refrigeration and Freezer Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To freeze, wrap portions tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating for the Best Texture
Reheat in a 325°F oven until warm, or use the microwave with a damp paper towel to keep the cheese soft and moist.
Meal Prep Notes
This casserole is perfect for lunch prep. Divide into containers for quick meals that stay flavorful all week.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I eat Philly Cheesesteak on a diet?
Yes! When made without bread, it’s a low-carb, high-protein meal that fits many diets.
Can you eat Philly cheese on keto?
Absolutely. Full-fat cheeses like provolone, cream cheese, and mozzarella are keto-friendly.
How many carbs does a Philly Cheesesteak have?
This low-carb version has minimal carbs, mostly from the veggies.
What can I use instead of ribeye for Philly Cheesesteak?
Ground beef is an easy swap that’s affordable and quick to cook.
Other Recipes You May Enjoy
- keto Philly cheesesteak roll ups
- healthy chicken cauliflower rice casserole
- crustless quiche high protein breakfast
- bacon cheeseburger rice skillet
- garlic butter steak bites
Conclusion
This Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole brings all the comfort of a cheesesteak in a simple, cheesy, low-carb form. It’s quick, filling, and perfect for weeknights or meal prep. Try it tonight and taste how delicious low-carb eating can be! For more recipe ideas, visit Pinterest.
Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole
Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Large skillet
- Wooden spoon
- Oven
Ingredients
- 2 lbs ground beef (80/20)
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 2 large bell peppers (green, red, or mixed), diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz full-fat cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- salt and pepper to taste
- 8 oz provolone cheese, sliced and torn into pieces
- 1.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and coat a 9×13 baking dish with non-stick spray.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and bell peppers and cook for 5–6 minutes until soft and fragrant.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until fully browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add Worcestershire sauce and softened cream cheese. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Transfer the beef mixture to the baking dish, spread evenly, top with provolone and mozzarella cheeses.
- Bake for 22–25 minutes until the top is bubbly and golden. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
