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Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

When craving the familiar taste of a classic Philly cheesesteak but looking to maintain a low-carb lifestyle, look no further than this scrumptious Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole. This delightful dish kicks bland dinners to the curb while delivering bold flavors and creamy textures that will satisfy any comfort food craving. It’s a fulfilling option for those busy weeknights when you need a wholesome meal that comes together quickly but feels indulgent.

Why Make This Recipe

Packed with flavor: The combination of sautéed veggies, creamy cheese, and seasoned beef is simply irresistible.
Quick and easy: This casserole is a one-pan wonder, reducing prep time and cleanup so you can enjoy your meal without stress.
Keto-friendly: With a low carb count, it fits seamlessly into a low-carb or ketogenic diet.

Simple Way to Prepare Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

Creating this low carb masterpiece is as enjoyable as it is rewarding. The steps are designed to keep you engaged while forming layers of flavor that meld beautifully in the oven. Just follow these handy instructions for a delicious casserole that will warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds.

Ingredients

Before diving into the process, here’s what 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

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Be sure to break it apart with a spoon as it cooks until it’s fully done. Drain any excess fat and season with salt and pepper. Once cooked, remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside in a bowl.
Dice the onion and bell peppers into uniform pieces. Mince the garlic as well. Having everything prepped ensures a smoother cooking experience.
Back in the same skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 10-15 minutes until they soften and caramelize to a stunning golden-brown. Once perfectly caramelized, transfer them to a bowl and set aside.
Next, throw the diced bell peppers into the skillet. Sauté them for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until they are tender-crisp. After that, toss in the minced garlic and cook for just 1 more minute until fragrant. Add the cooked bell peppers and garlic to the bowl with the caramelized onions.
Reducing the heat to medium-low, introduce the softened cream cheese cubes and Worcestershire sauce into the skillet. Stir them constantly until you achieve a smooth, creamy sauce, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Don’t forget to scrape the browned bits from the pan as you mix. Taste the sauce, adjusting seasonings as necessary.
Once your cream cheese sauce is silky and luxurious, return the cooked ground beef, caramelized onions, and sautéed bell peppers and garlic to the skillet. Add in the shredded mozzarella cheese, stirring everything thoroughly to coat the ingredients in that delicious sauce.
Carefully transfer the mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it into an even layer. Place the slices of provolone cheese neatly over the top, covering the entire casserole.
Place your assembled casserole in the preheated oven and bake for around 20-25 minutes, or until it becomes hot and bubbly around the edges, and the provolone cheese is melted and slightly crispy on top. If you want extra browning, broil for the last 1-2 minutes, keeping a close watch.
After taking it out of the oven, allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes on a wire rack before serving. If desired, sprinkle with some fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Serve this hearty casserole on its own or alongside a simple side salad for a complete low-carb meal.

Storage Tips for Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

To keep this delicious dish fresh and enjoyable for another meal, consider the following storage guidelines:

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days at a temperature of 40°F (4°C).
For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole for up to 2 months. Just ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container to prevent freezer burn.
To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through. If frozen, reheat at 375°F for about 25-30 minutes, checking every 10 minutes.

Best Ways to Serve Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

This versatile casserole can be presented in various styles to keep dinner exciting. Here are some suggestions to elevate your serving game:

Pair it with a fresh garden salad tossed in a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the casserole.
Serve it with cauliflower rice as a base to absorb some of the cheesy goodness.
For a family-style gathering, place the casserole on the table alongside crusty, low-carb rolls for those who desire a little something extra.
Consider accompanying this dish with pickles or jalapeños for those who enjoy a kick.

Tips to Make Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

Here are a few quick tips to ensure your casserole is the best it can be:

Select quality beef: Using ground beef with a higher fat content (80/20) not only enhances the flavor but also helps keep the meat juicy.
Prepping vegetables: To save time, you can chop the veggies a day in advance, making the cooking process quick and easy.
Cheese choices: If provolone isn’t your favorite, consider swapping it with gouda or a sharp cheddar for a different flavor profile.

Variations or Substitutions

If you’re looking to mix things up, here are a couple of fun variations to try:

Swap the Protein: If ground beef isn’t preferred, substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Just adjust your seasoning to bring out those flavors.
Veggie Boost: Add in extra vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for added nutrients and taste. These additions can create an even richer texture in the casserole.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Q: Can I use chicken instead of beef?
A: Certainly! Ground chicken works well; just season it appropriately to make sure it has enough flavor.

Q: How do I make it spicier?

Add sliced jalapeños or banana peppers to the mixture before baking.
Incorporate a dash of hot sauce into the cream cheese sauce.
Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes on top before baking for added heat.

Creating this Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole leads to a delightful journey of flavors and textures that caters to comfort food cravings without the excess carbs. With thoughtful servings, tips for storage, and alternative options, this recipe not only fills your belly but also itself serves as a source of culinary inspiration. Rediscover the joy of cooking while enjoying the rich tradition of a Philly favorite, now made easier and healthier for your busy life.

Embrace the vibrant flavors of this casserole and share it with family and friends. Remember, fewer carbs doesn’t mean less flavor—it means you can indulge without the guilt. So gather your ingredients, bring a hunger for good food, and dive into this fantastic, low-carb version of a classic cheesesteak experience!