Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

If you’re on the search for an easy and satisfying dish that’s packed with flavor but low in carbs, look no further. This Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is the delightful answer to your dinner prayers. With its rich blend of seasoned ground beef, gooey cheese, and fresh vegetables, this dish will not only win over your taste buds but also keep your carb intake in check. Get ready to enjoy a slice of cheesy, meaty goodness that’s as comforting as the classic Philly cheesesteak without the bread!

Why Make This Recipe

Hearty comfort food meets low-carb lifestyle, making it perfect for those watching their carb intake.
It’s simple to prepare and bakes in just about half an hour, offering a quick weeknight dinner solution.
Packed with flavor and protein, it’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone in the family will love.

If you’ve been craving traditional comfort food while trying to stick to healthy eating habits, this recipe beautifully balances indulgence and nutrition. Let’s dive into how to make this scrumptious casserole that will have you saying goodbye to boring dinners!

Simple Way to Prepare Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

Making this delightful casserole is as simple as following a few straightforward steps, ensuring you get a delicious meal without breaking a sweat in the kitchen. Let’s get started!

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Kick things off by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your casserole gets the perfect amount of heat to turn into a gooey, cheesy masterpiece.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

Spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with non-stick spray. This will help prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze later on.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat up 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onions and bell peppers into the pan. Stir and cook for about 5-6 minutes until they begin to soften and fill your kitchen with that wonderful aroma.

Next, throw in 2 cloves of minced garlic, cooking for another 30 seconds. Stir constantly during this time to prevent the garlic from burning. The combination of the onions, peppers, and garlic should make your mouth water!

Step 4: Cook the Beef

Now it’s time to add the star of the show—the ground beef! Add 2 pounds of 80/20 ground beef into the skillet, breaking it up with your spatula as it cooks. Don’t forget to generously season it with salt and pepper based on your taste preferences. Cook for 7-8 minutes until the meat is completely browned with no pink remaining. Drain any excess fat if necessary to keep the casserole from becoming greasy.

Step 5: Add Flavor

Stir in 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce and let that rich, savory flavor coat the meat mixture. Reduce the heat to low & add in 8 ounces of softened cream cheese. Stir until the cream cheese is melted and fully incorporated, turning your mixture creamy and luscious.

Step 6: Assemble the Casserole

Now, transfer your hearty meat and veggie mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly across the bottom. Grab 8 ounces of sliced provolone cheese and tear it into pieces, layering it over the beef mixture. Finally, sprinkle 1.5 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese on top for that gooey, melty finish.

Step 7: Bake

Slide your casserole into the preheated oven and bake for 22-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is melted, bubbly, and has taken on a beautiful golden color.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Allow the casserole to rest for about 5 minutes after removing it from the oven. This cooling period allows the flavors to meld together beautifully and makes it easier to slice and serve.

Storage Tips for Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

To keep this tasty dish fresh and ready for future meals, follow these storage guidelines:

Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours of cooking in an airtight container to ensure maximum freshness.
Store the casserole for up to 3-4 days at 40°F.
For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just ensure the casserole is well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen, and then microwave or bake until heated through.

How to Serve Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

This casserole is incredibly versatile, making it perfect for various serving occasions. Here are some delicious serving ideas:

Classic Side Dishes: Pair it with a fresh green salad drizzled with olive oil and vinegar to balance the richness of the casserole.
Low Carb Add-Ons: For an even heartier meal, you could serve it alongside steamed broccoli or zucchini noodles.
Flavor Boost: Consider adding a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top when serving for an extra burst of flavor.
Game Day Perfect: This dish is perfect for gatherings, serving as a centerpiece at a game day party or family get-together. Just set it out with some plates and let everyone dig in.

Tips to Make Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

To elevate your cooking experience with this casserole, here are a few handy tips:

Use a mix of bell peppers. The sweetness from red and yellow peppers will add a nice contrast to the savory beef and cheese.
Don’t skimp on the seasoning. Since this dish has bold flavors, ensure you season your beef well for maximum taste.
Allow the cream cheese to soften at room temperature before mixing it in to ensure it melts smoothly.
Consider adding some diced mushrooms or jalapeños to introduce additional flavors and textures.

Variations or Substitutions

If you want to change things up, consider these variations:

Meat Options: If beef isn’t your thing, ground turkey or chicken can work beautifully in this casserole. They’ll provide a lighter option without sacrificing flavor.
Cheese Swap: If mozzarella isn’t your favorite, feel free to replace it with cheddar or pepper jack cheese for a different flavor profile.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare everything up until the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold.

Q: Is this casserole suitable for meal prep?
A: Yes! This dish is perfect for meal prepping. Simply divide it into individual servings and store in airtight containers for easy meals throughout the week.

How do I make it spicier?

Mix in some diced jalapeños with the vegetables.
Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the meat as you cook it.
Serve with your favorite hot sauce on the side for an extra kick.

Nutritional Information

To keep this dish in line with your health goals, here’s a general overview of the nutritional breakdown per serving (based on serving 8):

Calories: 400
Protein: 28g
Carbohydrates: 6g
Fat: 30g
Fiber: 1g

This casserole is not only low in carbs but also high in protein, making it a filling option that fits nicely into a low-carb diet plan.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole, keep these tips in mind to avoid any mishaps:

Overcooking the Beef: Ensure your ground beef is just browned without overcooking; this keeps it tender and flavorful.
Skimping on the Cheese: Remember, cheese is the star here. A good amount of both provolone and mozzarella is key to achieving that lovely gooey texture.
Rushing the Cooling Time: Allow the casserole to rest before serving. This helps with slicing and enhances the overall flavor.

With its hearty flavors and comforting appeal, this Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is poised to become a staple in your home cooking repertoire. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a weekend gathering, this dish promises satisfaction and smiles all around. Dive into the cheesy, meaty goodness, and enjoy every glorious bite!