Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

A Hearty, Flavor-Packed Low-Carb Dinner

Introduction

If you love the classic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak but want a low-carb, family-friendly option, this Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is the perfect solution. It captures all the savory goodness of the original sandwich—juicy beef, sautéed onions and peppers, melty provolone, and creamy mozzarella—without the bread. This casserole is not only comforting but also easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep.

Traditional Philly cheesesteaks are iconic for their tender beef, caramelized onions, sautéed peppers, and melty cheese all packed inside a hoagie roll. While delicious, they are carb-heavy and require extra assembly. This casserole version keeps all the flavors you love while simplifying the cooking process. By layering ground beef, vegetables, and cheese, then baking to bubbly perfection, you get a satisfying, low-carb dish that works for dinner or lunch leftovers.

The creamy texture in this casserole comes from cream cheese, which blends beautifully with the beef and vegetables, giving it a rich, indulgent feel without heavy carbs. Worcestershire sauce adds savory depth, garlic boosts aroma, and a combination of provolone and mozzarella ensures gooey, melty cheese in every bite. The sautéed onions and peppers add sweetness, color, and crunch, keeping the casserole vibrant and flavorful.

This recipe is perfect for those following low-carb or keto-friendly diets, but it’s so tasty that everyone at the table will love it. It’s also versatile: you can add mushrooms, jalapeños, or even sprinkle extra cheese on top for a crispier finish. In this article, you’ll get step-by-step instructions, helpful tips, serving suggestions, and FAQs to make this Philly Cheesesteak Casserole a go-to recipe in your kitchen.

Ingredients

To make Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole, you will need:

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

Each ingredient plays a crucial role in flavor and texture:

• Ground beef: The foundation of the dish, providing richness and protein. Using 80/20 ensures enough fat to keep the beef juicy and flavorful.
• Onion and bell peppers: Offer sweetness, crunch, and color. When sautéed, they develop deep flavor that complements the beef.
• Garlic: Adds aromatic depth.
• Cream cheese: Creates a creamy base that binds the ingredients and keeps the casserole moist.
• Worcestershire sauce: Adds umami and savory complexity.
• Provolone and mozzarella cheeses: Provolone provides sharp, tangy flavor, while mozzarella melts beautifully for gooeyness.
• Olive oil: For sautéing vegetables and adding richness.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.

Preparation Method

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or similar casserole dish.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell peppers. Sauté for 5–6 minutes, or until the onions are translucent and the peppers begin to soften.

Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30–60 seconds until fragrant. Remove the vegetables from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Ground Beef

In the same skillet, add the ground beef. Break it apart with a spatula or spoon and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Season the beef with salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well to incorporate all the flavors.

Step 4: Combine Cream Cheese

Reduce the heat to low and add the softened cream cheese to the beef. Stir until fully melted and combined, creating a creamy mixture.

Return the sautéed onions and bell peppers to the skillet and mix evenly with the beef and cream cheese.

Step 5: Layer the Casserole

Transfer half of the beef and vegetable mixture into the prepared baking dish. Layer half of the provolone slices over the mixture.

Add the remaining beef mixture on top, then layer the remaining provolone slices. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the top for a golden, bubbly finish.

Step 6: Bake

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.

Step 7: Serve

Remove from the oven and allow to cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm, either on its own for a low-carb meal or alongside a fresh salad.

Tips for Perfect Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

• Use 80/20 ground beef for juicier results; leaner beef may result in a drier casserole.
• Slice provolone thinly for even melting.
• Let the casserole rest before serving to help the layers set.
• Customize by adding mushrooms, jalapeños, or extra seasoning like smoked paprika for additional depth.
• For a creamier texture, add 1–2 tablespoons of heavy cream to the beef mixture.

Flavor Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
• Extra Veggies: Include mushrooms or zucchini for added texture and nutrition.
• Cheese Mix: Use a combination of cheddar and mozzarella for a sharper, more melty topping.
• Herb Infusion: Sprinkle fresh thyme or oregano over the casserole before baking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this casserole as a standalone low-carb dinner.

Pair it with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or cauliflower rice to keep the meal light.

Leftovers reheat well in the microwave or a skillet, making this recipe perfect for meal prep lunches.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1–2 minutes or until warmed through.

Freeze the casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Why This Recipe Works

This casserole works because it combines the savory, melty flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak with a creamy, low-carb base. The cream cheese binds the beef and vegetables together, keeping every bite moist. Provolone and mozzarella provide gooey cheese layers that mimic the indulgence of a traditional sandwich.

The slow melding of sautéed vegetables and beef ensures a balanced flavor, while baking brings the cheese to a perfect bubbly golden finish. It’s comfort food reimagined for a low-carb lifestyle.

Conclusion

Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is a simple, flavorful, and satisfying dish that brings all the iconic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak without the bread. Perfect for low-carb or keto diets, busy weeknights, or meal prepping, this casserole combines juicy beef, sautéed onions and peppers, and melty cheeses into a creamy, indulgent dish.

Its versatility, ease of preparation, and family-friendly flavors make it a recipe you’ll return to again and again.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, though the flavor will be slightly milder. Consider adding extra seasoning.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare the mixture and store in the refrigerator until ready to bake.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes, it is low in carbs and high in fat and protein.

Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely. Mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach work well.

Can I make it spicier?
Yes. Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the beef mixture.