Introduction

This Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is a delicious and comforting twist on the classic sandwich. Packed with savory ground beef, sautéed peppers and onions, and melted cheese, it’s perfect for a hearty meal without the carbs. Easy to make and full of flavor, it’s sure to become a family favorite.

A close-up of a white round casserole dish filled with a baked casserole, showing three main layers: the top layer is a golden-brown melted cheese with small green pieces sprinkled on it; the middle layer is a creamy white sauce mixed with small bits of green and red vegetables; the bottom layer consists of browned ground meat mixed into the white sauce, giving a chunky texture. The casserole is being scooped with a silver serving spoon, lifting a thick triangular portion with all the layers clearly visible. The background is a white marbled surface, softly blurred. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

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

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly spray a 9×13 baking dish with non-stick spray.
Step 2: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions and bell peppers, cooking for 5-6 minutes until they start to soften and become fragrant.
Step 3: Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
Step 4: Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 7-8 minutes until fully browned with no pink remaining. Drain excess fat if needed.
Step 5: Stir in Worcestershire sauce, allowing it to coat the meat mixture. Reduce heat to low and add the softened cream cheese, stirring until it melts completely and creates a creamy sauce.
Step 6: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Layer torn pieces of provolone cheese over the top, then sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over everything.
Step 7: Bake for 22-25 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden on top. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Tips & Variations

For extra smokiness, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a few dashes of hot sauce to the beef mixture.
Swap provolone with cheddar or pepper jack cheese for a different flavor profile.
Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version, adjusting cooking time as needed.
To make it spicier, add sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes while cooking peppers and onions.

Storage

Store leftover casserole covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through. For longer storage, freeze the casserole in an airtight container for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How to Serve

A close-up of a white ceramic dish filled with lasagna showing three visible layers: the top layer is golden-brown melted cheese with some crispy spots and small green parsley leaves scattered on it, the middle layer is thick white creamy sauce pulling away in stringy stretches as a spoon lifts a serving, and the bottom layer is rich brown ground meat. The dish rests on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of ground meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or pork. Keep in mind that leaner meats may require slightly less cooking time and could benefit from added fat or moisture.

Is this casserole suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely. This casserole keeps well in the fridge and freezes nicely, making it a great option for preparing meals ahead of time. Just portion and reheat when ready to eat.

Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.5 from 149 reviews

This Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is a delicious and hearty dish featuring ground beef, vibrant bell peppers, onions, and a blend of creamy cheeses. Combining the iconic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak sandwich into a comforting baked casserole, it’s perfect for a family dinner or meal prep with minimal carbs and rich flavors.

Author: Dylan
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Low Carb

Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Vegetables

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

Dairy and Sauces

8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
8 oz provolone cheese, sliced
1.5 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded

Other

1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray a 9×13 baking dish with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Sauté Onions and Peppers: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions and bell peppers and cook for 5-6 minutes until they start to soften and release fragrance.
Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring constantly to avoid burning and ensure even flavor release.
Cook Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with your spatula. Season generously with salt and pepper, and cook for 7-8 minutes until the beef is completely browned with no pink remaining. Drain excess fat if desired.
Season and Combine Cream Cheese: Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, coating the meat mixture evenly. Reduce heat to low and add the softened cream cheese. Stir continuously until the cream cheese is fully melted and the mixture is creamy.
Assemble Casserole: Transfer the meat and vegetable mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Layer torn pieces of provolone cheese evenly over the top, then sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese to cover the casserole surface.
Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 22-25 minutes, until the cheeses are melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together before serving.

Notes

Use an 80/20 ground beef ratio for the best balance of flavor and moisture.
You can mix bell pepper colors to add a vibrant presentation and richer flavor.
Softening the cream cheese to room temperature ensures it melts smoothly into the beef mixture.
Drain excess fat after browning the beef for a less greasy casserole.
Letting the casserole rest allows the cheese to set slightly, making it easier to serve.

Keywords: Low Carb, Philly Cheesesteak, Casserole, Ground Beef, Cheese, Dinner, Keto Friendly