Oh my goodness, who doesn’t love a classic Philly cheesesteak? That ooey-gooey cheese, savory beef, and the crunch of fresh veggies – it’s a comfort food dream! But here’s the twist: I’ve created a low carb version that still packs all that flavor without the carbs weighing you down. Trust me, this low carb Philly cheesesteak casserole has quickly become a family favorite in my house. I love how it’s so easy to whip up, and it’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something hearty yet healthy. You can dig in without the guilt, and I promise, it’ll leave you feeling satisfied and craving more! So let’s dive into this delicious recipe, shall we?
Ingredients for Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole
- 1 pound ground beef (I prefer using 80/20 for that perfect balance of flavor and juiciness)
- 1 green bell pepper, diced (you can use any color bell pepper you like for a fun twist!)
- 1 onion, diced (sweet onions work great here, but yellow onions are just fine too)
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (I love using cremini mushrooms for their rich flavor)
- 1 cup heavy cream (this makes the casserole so creamy and dreamy)
- 1 cup shredded provolone cheese (or swap it out for your favorite cheese if you’re feeling adventurous!)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing the beef and veggies to perfection)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (because who doesn’t love a little garlic goodness?)
- Salt and pepper to taste (season it just right to elevate all those flavors)
How to Prepare Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole
Preheat the Oven
First things first, you want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is super important because it helps your casserole cook evenly. You don’t want to throw it in a cold oven and end up with a soggy mess, right? So get that oven nice and hot while you’re prepping everything else!
Cook the Beef and Vegetables
Now, grab a skillet and heat that olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s shimmering, toss in the pound of ground beef. You’ll want to cook it until it’s browned and just cooked through, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Don’t forget to break it up as it cooks so it gets nice and crumbly! Next, add in your diced green bell pepper, onion, and sliced mushrooms. Cook this mixture for another 5 minutes or so, until those veggies are softened and fragrant. Oh, the smell is heavenly!
Combine Ingredients
Once your beef and veggies are cooked, it’s time to mix things up! Sprinkle in the garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Then, pour in that luscious heavy cream and stir everything together until it’s well combined. This is where the magic happens, as it transforms your savory mixture into a creamy dream!
Bake the Casserole
Now, transfer your delicious mixture into a baking dish. Don’t be shy—spread it out evenly! Finally, sprinkle the shredded provolone cheese generously on top. It’s going to melt into cheesy perfection. Pop that dish into your preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Trust me, you’ll want to keep an eye on it because the aroma will have everyone in the house flocking to the kitchen!
Nutritional Information
So, let’s talk about the nutrition in this low carb Philly cheesesteak casserole! Each serving is packed with flavor, and here’s what you can expect nutritionally:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 28g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary depending on the specific ingredients you use. But I promise, you’re getting a hearty meal with all the comforts of a classic cheesesteak, minus the guilt! Enjoy every cheesy bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Low Carb Delight: Enjoy all the deliciousness of a Philly cheesesteak without the carbs weighing you down—perfect for low carb diets!
- Easy to Make: With just a handful of simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this casserole comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Flavor Packed: The combination of savory beef, fresh veggies, and creamy cheese creates a mouthwatering flavor explosion in every bite.
- Satisfying Comfort Food: This casserole is hearty and filling, so you’ll feel completely satisfied without any guilt. It’s like a warm hug on a plate!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your low carb Philly cheesesteak casserole turns out absolutely fabulous! Here are my top tips to help you achieve the best results:
- Don’t Skimp on the Browning: Make sure to brown your ground beef thoroughly! This adds so much flavor to the dish. Keep an eye on it, and don’t rush it—those golden bits are gold!
- Mix Up the Veggies: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables! Zucchini, spinach, or even jalapeños can add a fun twist and extra nutrition. Just slice them thin so they cook well.
- Cheese Choices: While provolone is classic, you can substitute with mozzarella for a milder flavor or cheddar for a bit of sharpness. Mix and match to find your favorite combo!
- Adjust the Cream: If you want a lighter version, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. It’ll still be creamy but with a bit less richness.
- Let It Rest: After baking, let the casserole sit for about 5 minutes before diving in. This helps everything set up nicely and makes serving easier!
- Save for Later: If you have leftovers (which I seriously doubt, but just in case!), this casserole reheats beautifully. Just pop it in the microwave or oven, and it’ll taste almost as good as fresh!
With these tips, you’ll be a pro at making this casserole in no time. Enjoy the cooking adventure, and get ready for some serious compliments!
Variations on Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole
One of the best things about this low carb Philly cheesesteak casserole is how versatile it is! You can switch things up and create your own unique twist on this classic dish. Here are some fun variations to consider:
- Cheese Galore: While provolone is a fantastic choice, don’t hesitate to mix it up! Try using mozzarella for a gooey texture or sharp cheddar for a kick. You can even blend different cheeses for a rich flavor profile!
- Add Extra Veggies: Want to sneak in more veggies? Go for it! Spinach, zucchini, or even diced tomatoes can add color and nutrients. Just make sure to sauté them well before mixing in.
- Spicy Kick: If you like a bit of heat, throw in some diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes. It’ll give your casserole a fiery edge that complements the creamy goodness beautifully!
- Switch the Meat: Feel free to swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. You could also use shredded rotisserie chicken for an even quicker prep!
- Mushroom Lovers: If you’re a fan of mushrooms, increase the amount! You can also mix in different varieties like shiitake or portobello for an earthy flavor boost.
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or even basil for a burst of freshness. Just toss them in towards the end of cooking to keep their vibrant flavor intact.
These variations are just the tip of the iceberg. The beauty of this casserole is that you can make it your own! So don’t be afraid to get creative and have fun in the kitchen. Happy cooking!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Let’s talk about how to keep your low carb Philly cheesesteak casserole fresh and ready for round two! If you happen to have any leftovers (which is a rarity in my house!), here’s how to store them properly:
- Storage: Allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This helps prevent any moisture from making it soggy. It’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3-4 days!
- Freezing: Want to save some for later? You can freeze it! Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place it in a freezer-safe container. It should keep well for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, let it thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Now, for reheating:
- Microwave: This is the quickest method! Place a serving in a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a damp paper towel (to keep it from drying out), and heat it for about 1-2 minutes or until warmed through. Stir halfway for even heating.
- Oven: For a more evenly heated dish, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish, cover it with foil to keep it from browning too much, and heat for about 15-20 minutes or until it’s hot and bubbly. Just keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking!
And there you have it! With these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your delicious casserole any day of the week. Dig in and savor every cheesy bite, even on the second round!
FAQ Section
Can I make this low carb Philly cheesesteak casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step and then cover it tightly in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven, and it’ll be ready to go!
Can I use different meats for the casserole?
Yes! Ground turkey or chicken are great alternatives for a leaner option. You can even use shredded rotisserie chicken to save time if you’re in a pinch!
What if I don’t have provolone cheese?
No worries! While provolone is delicious, you can substitute it with mozzarella for a gooey texture or cheddar for a sharper flavor. Feel free to mix and match your favorite cheeses!
Can I add more vegetables to the casserole?
Definitely! This dish is super versatile. You can add spinach, zucchini, or even diced tomatoes to sneak in some extra nutrients. Just make sure to sauté them first so they soften nicely!
How do I store leftovers properly?
Let the casserole cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3-4 days, or you can freeze it for later enjoyment. Just remember to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating!
For more delicious recipes, check out our all recipes page!
For a tasty side, consider making honey-glazed carrots to complement your casserole!
And if you’re looking for a different flavor profile, try our creamy avocado pasta!
Print
Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole: 5 Flavorful Tips
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A delicious low carb version of the classic Philly cheesesteak casserole.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded provolone cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add ground beef, cooking until browned.
- Add diced bell pepper, onion, and mushrooms. Cook until softened.
- Stir in garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pour in heavy cream and mix well.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish.
- Top with shredded provolone cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add Worcestershire sauce.
- You can substitute ground turkey for ground beef.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: low carb philly cheesesteak casserole