Keto Philly Cheese Steak Casserole is a delicious, low-carb twist on the classic Philly cheesesteak sandwich. This casserole combines tender, seasoned beef, sautéed peppers and onions, and gooey melted cheese to deliver all the flavors of a cheesesteak without the carbs. It’s a satisfying and easy-to-make dish perfect for keto meal prep or a family dinner.
Ingredients:
1 1/2 lbs ground beef (or thinly sliced steak)
1 green bell pepper (thinly sliced)
1 red bell pepper (thinly sliced)
1 medium onion (thinly sliced)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 cup mushrooms (sliced, optional)
8 oz cream cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 1/2 cups provolone cheese (sliced or shredded)
2 tbsp butter
Salt and pepper (to taste)
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
In a large skillet, heat butter over medium heat. Add the ground beef (or sliced steak) and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Once cooked, drain any excess fat and set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the onions, peppers, garlic, and mushrooms (if using). Sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Combine Meat and Vegetables:
Mix the cooked ground beef and sautéed vegetables together in the skillet. Stir in the cream cheese until it melts and creates a creamy mixture, thoroughly coating the beef and vegetables.
5. Assemble the Casserole:
Transfer the beef and vegetable mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top, followed by the provolone cheese slices (or shredded provolone).
6. Bake:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top.
7. Serve:
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your Keto Philly Cheese Steak Casserole hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 450
Fat: 35g
Protein: 25g
Net Carbs: 5g (Total Carbs: 7g, Fiber: 2g)
Tips for Success:
Use Thinly Sliced Steak: If you want a more authentic cheesesteak experience, opt for thinly sliced ribeye or sirloin instead of ground beef.
Add Mushrooms for Extra Flavor: While optional, mushrooms add a rich umami flavor that complements the beef and cheese well.
Choose the Right Cheese: Mozzarella provides a great melt, while provolone adds the signature cheesesteak flavor. You can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or Monterey Jack for variety.
Season Generously: Philly cheesesteaks are known for their bold, savory flavors. Make sure to season your meat and vegetables well to bring out the best in this dish.
Variations:
Keto Cheesesteak Stuffed Peppers: Instead of a casserole, stuff the meat and cheese mixture into hollowed-out bell peppers and bake for a cheesy, keto-friendly stuffed pepper meal.
Add Jalapeños: For a spicy kick, mix in some sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
Lower the Dairy: To reduce the fat content slightly, you can use a lighter cream cheese or reduce the amount of cheese, though this will affect the creaminess.
Storage:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in the oven until warmed through.
Freezing:
This casserole freezes well. To freeze, let the casserole cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe dish or divide it into portions. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
Conclusion:
Keto Philly Cheese Steak Casserole is a satisfying, low-carb, and high-protein dish that captures all the flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak in casserole form. It’s quick to prepare, packed with flavor, and perfect for keto dieters who crave comfort food without the guilt!
