Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

This Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is a cheesy, savory dinner that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich flavors of beef, creamy cheese, and colorful veggies, it offers a satisfying meal without the carbs. Ideal for family dinners or meal prep, this casserole stands out with its ease of preparation and delicious taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With a total time of just 50 minutes, you can have this hearty dish on the table in no time.
• Flavor-packed: The combination of beef, cheese, and veggies creates a mouthwatering experience that everyone will love.
• Versatile serving options: Enjoy it on its own or serve it alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal.
• Meal prep friendly: Make it ahead of time and reheat for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
• Low-carb goodness: Perfect for those following a low-carb lifestyle without sacrificing flavor.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make cooking this casserole even easier. Here’s what you’ll need to get started.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• 9×13 baking dish
• Non-stick spray
• Spatula
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Great for sautéing vegetables and browning meat evenly.
• 9×13 baking dish: Perfect size for ensuring your casserole cooks evenly and is easy to serve.
• Spatula: Helps in breaking up the meat while cooking and mixing ingredients smoothly.

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Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole:

• 2 lbs ground beef
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 large bell peppers (green, red, or a mix), diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 oz (1 package) cream cheese
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 oz provolone cheese, sliced
• 1½ cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1 tbsp olive oil

How to Make Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9×13 baking dish with non-stick spray to ensure your casserole won’t stick.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

• Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Add the diced onions and bell peppers. Cook for about 5-6 minutes until they begin to soften.
• Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Brown the Beef

• Add the ground beef to the skillet with the vegetables.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Cook while breaking up the meat with a spatula until completely browned, about 7-8 minutes.

Step 4: Add Flavoring

Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, allowing it to coat the meat mixture and enhance the flavors.

Step 5: Combine with Cream Cheese

Reduce heat to low. Add the softened cream cheese to the skillet. Stir until it melts completely and coats the meat and vegetable mixture evenly.

Step 6: Transfer to Baking Dish

Once fully combined, transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly across the bottom.

Step 7: Cheese Layering

Layer the sliced provolone cheese over the beef mixture. Then sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top.

Step 8: Bake

Place in your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. The cheese should be melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top.

Step 9: Cool Before Serving

Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps meld together all those delicious flavors!

How to Serve Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

This Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is a delicious dish perfect for any occasion. It can be served in various ways to suit your taste and dining preferences.

Casual Family Dinner

• Serve the casserole directly from the baking dish for a relaxed family meal. Pair it with a simple green salad to balance the rich flavors.

Meal Prep Option

• Portion the casserole into individual containers for easy meal prep. This makes it convenient to grab and go during busy weekdays.

Game Day Dish

• Present this casserole at your next game day gathering. It’s hearty enough to satisfy guests, and you can serve it with some low-carb veggies or chips on the side.

With Toppings

• Enhance each serving with optional toppings like sliced jalapeños, fresh herbs, or avocado for added flavor and freshness.

Leftover Lunch

• Enjoy leftovers as a tasty lunch option. Reheat in the microwave for a quick meal that keeps you full throughout the day.

How to Perfect Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

Achieving the perfect Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out great every time.

• Use quality beef: Opt for lean ground beef for better texture and flavor. Fresh meat will enhance the overall taste of your casserole.
• Cook vegetables properly: Sauté onions and peppers until they are just tender but not mushy. This adds depth without losing their crunch.
• Melt cream cheese thoroughly: Make sure the cream cheese melts completely into the mixture for a smooth and creamy consistency.
• Layer cheeses strategically: Use both provolone and mozzarella cheese for different textures. Provolone adds richness, while mozzarella gives that gooey stretch.
• Let it rest: After baking, allow the casserole to rest before serving. This helps it set up nicely and makes slicing easier.

Best Side Dishes for Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

Pairing side dishes with your Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole can enhance your meal experience. Here are some delightful options.

1. Cauliflower Rice: A light, fluffy alternative to traditional rice that complements the savory flavors of the casserole.
2. Zucchini Noodles: These spiralized veggies add a fresh crunch and are perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy outside and tender inside, these make a great low-carb side while adding a touch of sweetness.
4. Green Salad: A simple mix of greens dressed with olive oil and vinegar provides freshness that balances the richness of the casserole.
5. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds color and is an excellent source of vitamins while being low in carbs.
6. Garlic Butter Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms in garlic butter bring an earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with steak dishes.
7. Broccoli Slaw: Crunchy, tangy slaw made from broccoli stems offers a unique twist that complements hearty casseroles.
8. Stuffed Bell Peppers: For an extra dose of veggies, bake bell peppers stuffed with cheese or quinoa as a colorful side option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding mistakes while making the Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole can enhance your cooking experience and ensure a delicious outcome.

• Not Prepping Ingredients: Failing to chop vegetables and measure ingredients before starting can lead to disorganization. Prepare everything in advance for smooth cooking.
• Overcooking Vegetables: Cooking the bell peppers and onions too long can make them mushy. Sauté just until they begin to soften for the best texture.
• Skimping on Seasoning: Under-seasoning may leave your casserole bland. Taste as you go and adjust salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce for flavor.
• Ignoring Cheese Layering: Simply mixing cheese into the casserole may result in uneven melting. Layer cheese on top to achieve a bubbly, golden finish.
• Skipping Rest Time: Cutting into the casserole immediately after baking can cause it to fall apart. Let it rest for 5 minutes for better slicing and serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before freezing.
• Use a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place a portion in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making the Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute that will still provide a flavorful dish while keeping it low carb.

How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, replace cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative and use vegan cheese options instead of provolone and mozzarella.

What can I serve with Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole?

This casserole pairs well with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal without added carbs.

Can I customize the vegetables used in the casserole?

Absolutely! Feel free to add mushrooms, zucchini, or any other vegetables you enjoy to enhance the flavor and nutrition.

How do I know when the casserole is done baking?

The casserole is done when the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden brown on top, usually around 20-25 minutes at 350°F (175°C).

Final Thoughts

The Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is not only a comforting meal but also versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite veggies or swap out cheeses based on personal preference. Try this recipe today; it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep!