When the cravings for comfort food hit but I’m determined to stick to my low-carb goals, this Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole becomes my go-to dish. Picture this: a delightful blend of seasoned ground beef, colorful bell peppers, and creamy cheese, all baked together to create a savory masterpiece that mirrors the classic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak. The first time I served it to my family on a busy weeknight, their delighted faces told me I had struck culinary gold.

This dish not only satisfies your cravings for hearty comfort but also checks the boxes for high protein and low carbs—perfect for anyone navigating a keto lifestyle. Whether you’re winding down after a long day or planning a simple yet impressive meal for guests, this casserole is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Prepare for the satisfying cheesy pull and savory bites that will have everyone asking for seconds, all while feeling good about what’s on their plates!

Why Will You Love Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole?

Satisfying Comfort Food: This dish beautifully combines the classic Philly cheesesteak flavors with a low-carb twist, making it perfect for your comfort food cravings.
High Protein Delight: Packed with protein from savory ground beef and creamy cheeses, it’s a wholesome meal that keeps you fueled throughout the day.
Quick and Easy: In just under an hour, you’ll have a delicious casserole ready—ideal for busy weeknights.
Versatile and Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or spice it up with jalapeños for added heat!
Family Approved: With cheesy goodness that pleases even the pickiest eaters, you might find this casserole becoming a regular in your dinner rotation.

Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole Ingredients

For the Meat Mixture

Ground Beef (2 lbs, 80/20 fat ratio preferred) – Main protein source, provides rich flavor and tenderness; can use turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Salt and Pepper – Essential seasonings to enhance the flavors of the beef.
Worcestershire Sauce (2 tbsp) – Adds umami and depth to the meat mixture.

For the Vegetables

Onion (1 large, diced) – Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
Bell Peppers (2 large, diced, any color) – Offers crunch and vibrant color; consider a mix for varied flavor.
Garlic (2 cloves, minced) – Enhances the overall flavor profile.

For the Creamy Base

Cream Cheese (8 oz, softened) – Provides creaminess and binds ingredients together.

For the Cheesy Topping

Provolone Cheese (8 oz, sliced) – Melts well and adds characteristic cheesy flavor.
Mozzarella Cheese (1.5 cups, shredded) – Provides melt and stretch, perfect for topping.

For Cooking

Olive Oil (1 tbsp) – Used for sautéing vegetables; adds healthy fats.

How to Make Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×13 baking dish with non-stick spray. This ensures your casserole won’t stick, making it easier to serve later on.
Sauté diced onion and bell peppers in a skillet over medium heat with olive oil. Cook for about 5-6 minutes until the vegetables soften and turn a lovely translucent color.
Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, allowing its fragrant aroma to fill your kitchen. This step adds an extra layer of flavor to your casserole.
Incorporate the ground beef into the skillet, breaking it apart as you go. Season with salt and pepper, cooking until browned (about 7-8 minutes). Drain excess fat if necessary to keep your casserole balanced.
Stir in Worcestershire sauce, then reduce the heat. Mix in softened cream cheese until it melts and creates a creamy base that envelops the beef and veggies.
Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared baking dish, layering it with slices of provolone cheese, followed by a generous topping of shredded mozzarella cheese.
Bake for 22-25 minutes until the cheese bubbles and turns a glorious golden brown. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving; this helps the flavors meld beautifully.

Optional: Top with chopped parsley for a fresh pop of color and flavor.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Storage Tips for Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, ensuring the casserole stays fresh and delicious for your next meal.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individual portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Perfect for easy meal prep!
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat your Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole in the oven at 325°F until warmed through, or microwave covered with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
Avoid Repeated Thawing: To maintain quality, avoid thawing and refreezing your casserole. Cooked meals are best reheated only once for optimal taste.

Helpful Tricks for Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

Quality Meat Matters: Use high-fat ground beef for maximum flavor and juiciness; avoid low-fat options, which may dry out the casserole.
Don’t Rush Sautéing: Take your time when sautéing onions and peppers. Properly caramelizing them brings out their natural sweetness, enhancing your casserole.
Cream Cheese Temperature: Ensure your cream cheese is softened before mixing; this prevents clumps and helps create a smooth, creamy texture in your Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole.
Watch the Cheese: Keep an eye on your cheese while baking; if it starts to brown too quickly, cover the dish loosely with foil to prevent burning.
Reheating Secrets: When reheating leftover casserole, adding a sprinkle of fresh cheese before warming up can bring back that irresistible, melty texture!

Make Ahead Options

These Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during hectic weeknights! You can prepare the meat and vegetable mixture up to 24 hours in advance; simply sauté the onions, peppers, garlic, and ground beef, then mix in the cream cheese and let it cool before transferring it to an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to eat, layer the mixture with cheese in your baking dish, then bake as directed. For optimal flavor and texture, be sure to cover the casserole tightly with foil during baking to keep it nice and moist. Enjoy a quick, hassle-free dinner with all the deliciousness!

Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole Variations

Feel free to get creative and add your personal touch to this comforting dish!

Dairy-Free: Substitute cream cheese with cashew cream or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for a lighter option.
Veggie Boost: Mix in diced mushrooms and spinach for additional nutrients and flavor, boosting the veggie factor!
Spice it Up: Incorporate sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for a zesty kick that will tantalize your taste buds.
Crunchy Topping: Add a layer of crushed pork rinds or almond flour mixed with Italian seasoning on top before baking for a delightful crunch.
Different Cheeses: Experiment with different cheese blends like cheddar or pepper jack for varied flavors and an exciting cheese pull.
Whole30 Approved: Swap olive oil for avocado oil and omit cheese altogether for a Whole30-compliant version that still satisfies.
Low-FODMAP: Use garlic-infused olive oil and omit the onions, allowing you to enjoy this dish without bloating or discomfort.
Extra Creamy: Stir in a cup of cottage cheese before baking for a creamier texture and an additional protein boost.

Mix and match these variations to craft your ultimate Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole experience!

What to Serve with Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole?

As you embark on the culinary journey of the savory Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole, consider these delightful pairings to elevate your dining experience.

Crisp Mixed Greens Salad: A refreshing, crunchy salad filled with colorful vegetables perfectly balances the richness of the casserole.
Garlic Butter Asparagus: Tender asparagus drizzled with garlic butter provides a gourmet touch and adds a nutritious green element to your meal.
Zucchini Noodles: Light and low in carbs, zucchini noodles offer a subtle crunch and enhance the overall freshness of your plate.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized Brussels sprouts with a dash of balsamic vinegar bring a slight sweetness and a hearty texture, making a perfect sidekick.
Riced Cauliflower: Serving riced cauliflower alongside the casserole reinforces the low-carb theme and soaks up the delicious cheesy flavors.
Red Wine: A glass of bold red wine can enhance the umami of the dish, making each bite even more satisfying.
Chocolate Avocado Mousse: End your meal with a creamy, rich dessert that maintains the low-carb focus while satisfying your sweet tooth.
Sparkling Water with Lemon: Freshen your palate with sparkling water, elevating the meal without adding any sugars.
Herb-Infused Quinoa: If you’re looking to indulge a little further, herb-infused quinoa can complement the casserole while adding a touch of heartiness.
Stuffed Bell Peppers: These packed peppers can serve as a unique side, echoing the flavors in the casserole while providing a fun presentation.

Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole Recipe FAQs

What type of ground beef should I use for the casserole?
Absolutely! I recommend using ground beef with an 80/20 fat ratio for optimal flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, using ground turkey or chicken is a great substitute that still keeps the dish tasty but lowers the fat content.

How can I store leftovers of the Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This way, you can enjoy this delightful meal again without losing its flavor. Just ensure it’s tightly sealed to maintain freshness.

Can I freeze the casserole, and how do I do it?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole! For best results, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap or place them in airtight containers. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Bake at 325°F until warmed through for that freshly made taste.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Definitely! This casserole is not only low carb and high protein, making it ideal for keto dieters, but be cautious if you have dairy allergies due to the cream cheese and cheeses used. If you’d like a lactose-free option, consider using vegan cheeses or Greek yogurt as a substitute for cream cheese!

What if my casserole comes out too dry?
If your Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole turns out dry, it may be due to overcooking. Ensure you don’t leave it in the oven longer than recommended. Adding a little broth or extra creaminess with a dollop of sour cream when reheating can help restore moisture and flavor!

How do I know when the casserole is done baking?
You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is bubbly and golden brown, usually around 22-25 minutes in the oven. For best results, let it rest for 5 minutes before serving—this allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to cut and serve!