Cheesy Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole Delight
Indulge in a savory Cheesy Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole that’s packed with flavor and perfect for keto-friendly meals! This dish combines the bold, satisfying flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak with the comfort of a creamy, cheesy casserole that’s low in carbs and big on taste. Whether you’re following a keto diet or just craving a hearty, flavorful dinner, this casserole is the perfect way to enjoy that iconic cheesesteak flavor in an easy, one-dish meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and Flavorful: Every bite bursts with tender steak, sautéed peppers and onions, and gooey cheese for an unforgettable taste experience.
- Low Carb and Keto-Friendly: Made with carefully selected ingredients, this casserole fits perfectly into low carb and ketogenic lifestyles without sacrificing flavor.
- Simple Preparation: Quick to assemble with minimal cooking skills required, it’s great for busy weeknights or weekend comfort food.
- Hearty and Filling: The combination of protein and healthy fats keeps you feeling satisfied for hours without a carb crash.
- Family Approved: A crowd-pleaser loved by all ages, including picky eaters who often resist low carb meals.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cheesy Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is built on simple, fresh ingredients that come together to create a dish that’s vibrant, flavorful, and perfectly textured. Each component adds a unique note, from the juicy steak to the melty cheese and fragrant aromatics.
- Thinly sliced ribeye steak: Tender and juicy, this cut is the perfect base for authentic Philly flavor.
- Bell peppers: Adds sweetness and a pop of color; green or mixed varieties work wonderfully.
- Onions: Classic sautéed onions bring a savory depth and a touch of natural sweetness to the dish.
- Provolone cheese: Melts beautifully and delivers that creamy, slightly tangy cheesesteak character.
- Cream cheese: Creates a smooth, rich texture that binds the casserole together.
- Cauliflower rice: A low carb substitute for traditional potatoes or bread, offering a neutral base that soaks up all the flavors.
- Garlic and seasonings: Fresh garlic and a careful blend of herbs and spices elevate every bite.
- Olive oil or butter: For sautéing and enhancing the dish’s richness.
Variations for Cheesy Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole
Feel free to make this Cheesy Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole your own! It’s incredibly versatile and can be easily customized to fit different tastes, ingredient availability, or dietary preferences.
- Swap the steak: Use thinly sliced sirloin, flank steak, or even thin-cut chicken breast for a different protein twist.
- Add mushrooms: Toss in sliced mushrooms during sautéing for extra earthiness and texture.
- Spice it up: Mix in sliced jalapeños or a pinch of chili flakes for a subtle kick of heat.
- Cheese options: Substitute provolone with mozzarella, cheddar, or Monterey Jack for varied flavor profiles.
- Vegetable boost: Add spinach or zucchini noodles to increase veggie content without adding carbs.
How to Make Cheesy Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole
Step 1: Prepare and Sauté Vegetables
Start by heating olive oil or butter in a large skillet and sauté thinly sliced onions and bell peppers until they soften and develop a golden hue. This builds a flavorful foundation for the casserole.
Step 2: Cook the Steak
In the same skillet, quickly sear the thinly sliced ribeye steak until just cooked through, seasoning with salt, pepper, and garlic. The goal is tender slices with a little caramelization for depth.
Step 3: Mix the Creamy Base
In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese with shredded provolone and your preferred seasonings. This creamy blend gives the casserole its signature gooey texture and cheesy richness.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Gently mix the cooked steak, sautéed vegetables, cauliflower rice, and the creamy cheese mixture until well incorporated. This ensures every bite is bursting with cheesy, meaty goodness.
Step 5: Bake Until Bubbly
Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake at a moderate temperature until the top is golden and bubbling with cheese. This step melds all the flavors together perfectly and creates a delicious crust on top.
Pro Tips for Making Cheesy Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole
- Use thinly sliced steak: It cooks quickly and stays tender, avoiding toughness in the casserole.
- Dry vegetables thoroughly: Excess moisture can make the casserole watery, so sauté and drain well if needed.
- Let it rest: Allow the casserole to cool for 5-10 minutes before serving for cleaner slices and better texture.
- Don’t skip the cream cheese: It’s key for that rich, creamy consistency that makes the casserole irresistible.
- Customize cheese blends: Mixing different cheeses enhances complexity and meltiness.
How to Serve Cheesy Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chopped green onions adds brightness and a pop of color that complements the rich casserole beautifully.
Side Dishes
Pair with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette or simple steamed low-carb veggies to balance the richness with freshness.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve individual portions in ramekins for a fancy touch during dinner parties, or top with extra cheese and broil for a melty, golden crust variation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Cheesy Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to 3-4 days and is perfect for quick reheats during the week.
Freezing
This casserole freezes wonderfully. Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat individual servings in the microwave or oven until warmed through, and consider covering with foil in the oven to keep moisture in without drying out the dish.
FAQs
Is this casserole suitable for a keto diet?
Absolutely! The recipe uses low carb ingredients like cauliflower rice and high-fat cheeses, making it perfect for keto and other low carb eating plans.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes, you can swap provolone for mozzarella, cheddar, or Monterey Jack depending on your flavor preference and what you have on hand.
What’s the best cut of steak to use?
Thinly sliced ribeye is ideal for its tenderness and flavor, but sirloin or flank steak works well too if sliced thinly against the grain.
Can this recipe be made dairy-free?
With substitutions like non-dairy cream cheese and dairy-free cheese alternatives, this casserole can be adapted for dairy-free diets, though texture will vary slightly.
How do I avoid the casserole becoming watery?
Make sure to sauté vegetables thoroughly to reduce moisture and drain any excess liquid before combining ingredients to keep the casserole from becoming soggy.
Final Thoughts
Cheesy Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is a deliciously comforting dish that combines the best of Philly cheesesteak flavors with a low carb, keto-friendly twist. It’s straightforward to prepare and endlessly satisfying, making it a fantastic go-to meal for anyone craving a hearty, cheesy casserole without the guilt. Give this recipe a try and discover a new favorite that will surely become a staple in your recipe collection!
Related Posts
PrintCheesy Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole
Indulge in a savory Cheesy Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole packed with tender ribeye steak, sautéed bell peppers and onions, and a creamy blend of provolone and cream cheese. This keto-friendly, low carb casserole is easy to make, hearty, and bursting with classic Philly cheesesteak flavors in a comforting, cheesy baked dish perfect for quick weeknight dinners or meal prep.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free, Keto, Low Carb
Ingredients
Protein
- 1 lb thinly sliced ribeye steak
Vegetables
- 1 cup thinly sliced bell peppers (green or mixed varieties)
- 1 cup thinly sliced onions
- 1 1/2 cups cauliflower rice
- Optional: 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
- Optional: spinach or zucchini noodles to taste
Cheeses
- 1 cup shredded provolone cheese
- 4 oz softened cream cheese
- Optional: substitute provolone with mozzarella, cheddar, or Monterey Jack
Seasonings & Others
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1–2 tbsp olive oil or butter for sautéing
- Optional: sliced jalapeños or chili flakes for spice
Instructions
- Prepare and Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add thinly sliced onions and bell peppers and sauté until they become soft and golden, about 5-7 minutes. If adding mushrooms, include them here and cook until tender. This base builds the savory flavor foundation for the casserole.
- Cook the Steak: In the same skillet, push vegetables to the side and add the thinly sliced ribeye steak. Season with salt, pepper, and minced garlic. Sear the steak until just cooked through with slight caramelization, about 2-3 minutes, ensuring it stays tender.
- Mix the Creamy Base: In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese with shredded provolone cheese and preferred seasonings. Mix until creamy and well blended, creating the gooey binding for the casserole.
- Combine Ingredients: Gently fold the cooked steak, sautéed vegetables, cauliflower rice, and creamy cheese mixture together until evenly incorporated. Take care to mix just enough to combine, keeping a desirable texture.
- Bake Until Bubbly: Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and spread evenly. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly, forming a delicious cheese crust.
- Rest Before Serving: Remove from oven and allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes for cleaner slices and improved texture. Garnish with fresh parsley or chopped green onions as desired before serving.
Notes
- Use thinly sliced steak to ensure quick cooking and tender texture.
- Dry vegetables thoroughly to avoid excess moisture and watery casserole.
- Let the casserole rest before cutting to improve slice integrity and texture.
- Don’t skip the cream cheese; it is key for creamy consistency.
- Experiment with different cheeses to enhance flavor and meltiness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 casserole
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 480 mg
- Fat: 26 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg
Keywords: Philly cheesesteak casserole, low carb casserole, keto dinner, cheesy casserole, easy weeknight meal