Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak

This low carb Philly cheesesteak casserole transforms the iconic sandwich into a comforting, keto-friendly dish that delivers all the flavors without the carbs. The combination of seasoned ground beef, tender vegetables, and a blanket of melted cheese creates a satisfying meal that works for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining.

I developed this recipe when my husband started following a keto diet but was missing his favorite comfort foods. This casserole quickly became our Friday night staple, satisfying his Philly cheesesteak cravings without derailing his progress.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: Provides the hearty base for this casserole while keeping carbs low. Look for 80/20 for best flavor
• Bell peppers: Add essential Philly cheesesteak flavor and a pop of color. Choose firm peppers with shiny skin
• Onions: Caramelize slightly during cooking creating that authentic cheesesteak sweetness
• Cream cheese: Creates the rich creamy sauce that brings everything together. Allow it to soften at room temperature first
• Worcestershire sauce: Adds that umami depth that makes the beef flavor really pop
• Provolone cheese: Provides the authentic Philly cheesesteak experience with its mild tanginess
• Mozzarella cheese: Creates that irresistible melty stretchy topping everyone loves

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 350°F and spray your baking dish generously with non-stick spray. This temperature allows the casserole to cook through without burning the cheese topping. Make sure to get the corners of your dish to prevent sticking.

Cook the Vegetables:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it shimmers. Add diced onions and bell peppers, stirring occasionally until they begin to soften but still maintain some texture. The vegetables should become translucent and slightly sweet as they release their natural sugars. Add garlic toward the end to prevent burning.

Brown the Beef:

Add ground beef to the vegetable mixture, breaking it into small crumbles with a wooden spoon. Cook thoroughly until no pink remains, about 7-8 minutes. The beef should develop some browned bits which add flavor. Drain excess fat if necessary for a cleaner finished dish.

Add Seasonings:

Sprinkle Worcestershire sauce over the meat mixture, stirring to distribute evenly. This adds that distinctive savory note that makes Philly cheesesteaks so craveable. The liquid will mostly evaporate, leaving behind concentrated flavor.

Incorporate Cream Cheese:

Reduce heat to prevent scorching, then add cream cheese in chunks. Stir continuously until completely melted and incorporated, creating a smooth, creamy sauce that coats the meat and vegetables. This process should take about 2-3 minutes.

Transfer to Baking Dish:

Carefully spoon the mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it into an even layer. Press down slightly with a spatula to eliminate air pockets which can cause uneven cooking.

Top with Cheese:

Layer provolone slices across the top, slightly overlapping to ensure complete coverage. Sprinkle mozzarella over the provolone, distributing it evenly for a consistent golden top when baked.

Bake to Perfection:

Place the casserole in the center rack of your preheated oven. Bake until the cheese topping is completely melted, bubbling at the edges, and spots of golden brown appear across the surface. This visual cue indicates perfect doneness.

Rest Before Serving:

Allow the finished casserole to rest on a cooling rack for 5 minutes before cutting. This crucial step allows the proteins to relax and juices to redistribute, resulting in neater slices and enhanced flavor.

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The cream cheese is truly the secret ingredient that takes this dish from good to unforgettable. I discovered its importance accidentally when I was out of provolone one night and doubled up on cream cheese instead. The resulting richness made everyone ask for my secret, and now it's a non-negotiable component.

Make Ahead Options

This casserole actually improves with time as the flavors meld together. You can prepare the entire recipe up to the baking step, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 48 hours. When ready to serve, simply remove from the refrigerator while the oven preheats, then bake as directed, adding about 10 minutes to the cooking time to account for the cold start.

Storage and Reheating

Once cooled, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For best results when reheating, place individual portions in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat at 70% power until just warmed through. Alternatively, reheat larger portions in a 325°F oven until the center reaches 165°F, about 15-20 minutes. The casserole also freezes beautifully for up to 3 months when wrapped properly.

Variations To Try

For a spicy twist, add diced jalapeños or a dash of red pepper flakes to the vegetable mixture. The heat balances beautifully with the creamy cheese elements. If mushrooms are your thing, adding 8 ounces of sliced mushrooms sautéed until golden creates an even more authentic cheesesteak experience. Some of my family members prefer ground chicken or turkey as a lighter option which works perfectly with minimal recipe adjustments.

Serving Suggestions

While delicious on its own, this casserole pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed with olive oil and vinegar to cut through the richness. For those not strictly following keto, a side of roasted radishes provides a potato-like experience without the carbs. If you want to lean into the sandwich inspiration, serve small portions in lettuce cups for a fun handheld option at casual gatherings.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes! You can substitute provolone and mozzarella with cheeses like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Swiss to suit your taste.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble the casserole in advance, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to cook, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.

→ Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes, this dish is low in carbs, making it ideal for a keto diet. Just ensure any additional ingredients remain low-carb.

→ What side dishes pair well with this casserole?

Pair it with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or cauliflower rice to keep it low-carb and balanced.

→ Can I substitute ground beef with another protein?

Of course! Ground chicken, turkey, or pork are great alternatives that work well in this casserole.