Description
This Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is a savory, cheesy dinner loaded with tender ground beef, sautéed onions and bell peppers, and classic Philly cheesesteak flavors. It’s a delicious, low-carbohydrate comfort food dish that combines creamy melted cheeses with flavorful seasoned beef and vegetables, baked to bubbly perfection. Perfect for a hearty family meal or meal prep, this casserole proves that healthy eating doesn’t mean sacrificing taste.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Vegetables
- 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 fat ratio preferred)
- 1 large onion, diced (yellow recommended)
- 2 large bell peppers, diced (green, red, or mixed)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (fresh)
Dairy & Cheese
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature (full-fat preferred)
- 8 oz provolone cheese, sliced (torn into smaller pieces for melting)
- 1½ cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
Other Ingredients
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare baking dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with non-stick spray for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- Sauté vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and bell peppers and cook for 5-6 minutes until they start to soften and become fragrant. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
- Cook ground beef: Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Season generously with salt and pepper. Cook for 7-8 minutes until the beef is completely browned with no pink remaining. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add seasonings and cream cheese: Stir in Worcestershire sauce, allowing it to coat the meat mixture. Reduce heat to low, then add the softened cream cheese. Stir continuously until the cream cheese is fully melted and the mixture is creamy and well combined.
- Assemble casserole: Transfer the creamy beef and vegetable mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Layer torn provolone cheese pieces over the top, then sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the provolone layer for a cheesy topping.
- Bake the casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 22-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden on top. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld together.
Notes
- Use 80/20 ground beef for optimal tenderness and juiciness.
- Yellow onions provide a sweeter flavor, but you may substitute with white if preferred.
- Tearing the provolone into smaller pieces ensures even melting throughout the casserole.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze individual portions for up to 3 months.
- Reheat in a 325°F oven until warmed through or microwave covered to avoid drying out. Adding a little cheese on top when reheating boosts freshness.
- Optional add-ins: mushrooms, jalapeños, or alternative cheeses for variety and added heat.
- This casserole pairs well with low-carb sides like broccoli cheese rounds, mixed greens salad, roasted brussels sprouts, garlic butter asparagus, or cauliflower rice.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Philly cheesesteak casserole, low carb dinner, ground beef casserole, keto-friendly meal, cheesy casserole, low carb comfort food
