Craving a delicious twist on a classic dish? My Cheesy Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole brings rich flavors right to your table without the guilt! Packed with ground beef, bell peppers, and creamy cheeses, this dish is perfect for low-carb diets. It’s simple to make and utterly satisfying. Dive in and discover how easy it is to enjoy a cheesy, hearty meal that fits your lifestyle!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 green bell pepper, sliced
– 1 yellow onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 2 cups shredded provolone cheese
To make this cheesy low carb Philly cheesesteak casserole, you need ground beef as the base. Use fresh bell peppers and onions for a sweet crunch. Cream cheese adds a rich, creamy texture, while provolone cheese brings that melty goodness.
Seasonings and Liquids
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
These seasonings enhance the flavor. Beef broth keeps the dish moist. Worcestershire sauce adds depth. Italian seasoning and paprika bring warmth and a hint of spice. Salt and pepper balance all the flavors.
Optional Ingredients
– Fresh parsley for garnish
– Additional cheese types (optional)
For a pop of color, sprinkle fresh parsley on top. You can also use other cheese types to change the flavor profile. Try mozzarella or cheddar for a fun twist.
For the full recipe, check the details above.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is key for a perfect bake.
2. Cook the meat: In a large skillet, brown 1 pound of ground beef over medium heat. It takes about 5-7 minutes. Drain any extra fat.
3. Sauté vegetables: Add 1 sliced green bell pepper, 1 sliced yellow onion, and 2 minced garlic cloves to the skillet. Cook until tender, around 3-4 minutes.
Combining Ingredients
4. Mix in cream cheese and broth: Stir in 8 ounces of softened cream cheese and 1 cup of beef broth. Add 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and 1/2 teaspoon of paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix until smooth.
5. Incorporate seasonings and cheese: Remove the skillet from heat and add in 1 cup of shredded provolone cheese. Mix until it melts slightly into the mixture.
Baking the Casserole
6. Transfer to casserole dish: Pour the beef and cheese mix into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish. Spread it out evenly.
7. Top with cheese: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded provolone cheese on top of the casserole.
8. Bake: Place the dish in your preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Enjoy this cheesy low-carb dish right out of the oven! You can find the Full Recipe for more details.
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
To brown ground beef effectively, start with a hot skillet. Use medium heat and break the meat into smaller pieces. This helps it cook evenly. Stir it often to ensure no bits stick to the pan. Drain any excess fat after cooking for a leaner dish.
For melting cream cheese, make sure it is softened. You can leave it out at room temp for an hour or two. If you’re short on time, microwave it for about 20 seconds. Then, mix it into the meat and veggies while everything is warm. This helps it melt smoothly without lumps.
Serving Suggestions
For a complete meal, serve this casserole with a side salad. A simple green salad with your favorite dressing works well. You can also add some steamed broccoli or cauliflower for extra veggies. Both add color and flavor without many carbs.
Garnish the dish with fresh parsley for a nice touch. This adds a pop of color and a fresh taste. You can also sprinkle some extra provolone cheese on top just before serving for a cheesy finish.
Health and Nutritional Tips
To keep it low-carb, focus on using lean ground beef. This reduces fat without sacrificing flavor. Stick to non-starchy veggies, like bell peppers and onions, to keep carbs low. You can also swap in cauliflower rice for extra bulk without the carbs.
When adjusting daily nutrition, remember to balance meals. Pair this casserole with a high-fiber salad. This helps you feel full and satisfied. Drink plenty of water, too, as it aids digestion and helps with weight management.
Variations
Ingredient Substitutions
If you want to mix things up, try different ingredients. For cream cheese, you can use sour cream or Greek yogurt. Both add creaminess but with different flavors. You might also enjoy using ricotta cheese for a smoother texture.
For cheese choices, provolone is a classic, but mozzarella works too. Cheddar cheese can add a sharp kick. Feel free to combine these cheeses for a richer taste.
When it comes to protein, ground beef is great, but you can swap it for ground turkey or chicken. Thinly sliced steak is another tasty option. This gives a more traditional Philly cheesesteak feel.
Flavor Enhancements
Want to spice it up? Add some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for heat. A touch of smoked paprika can give it a smoky depth.
You can also toss in veggies like mushrooms or spinach. They not only boost the flavor but also add nutrients. Just sauté them with the onions and peppers.
Try adding a splash of hot sauce for an extra zing. This can really elevate the whole dish.
Dietary Considerations
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, use a dairy-free cream cheese. There are many brands available that taste great. For the cheese, try a dairy-free cheese blend.
For a gluten-free option, make sure your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free. Most brands are, but it’s good to double-check the label. You can serve this casserole with a side salad for a complete meal without any gluten.
This dish can adapt to many dietary needs while still being delicious.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your cheesy low carb Philly cheesesteak casserole fresh, cool it first. Then, place it in an airtight container. Refrigerate it for up to four days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat portions in the microwave. You can also warm it in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes. This keeps the cheese nice and melty.
The best storage containers are glass or BPA-free plastic. They seal tightly and are easy to clean. I recommend using smaller containers for individual servings. This helps with quick meal options.
Freezing Tips
You can freeze the casserole for later. Let it cool completely before freezing. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. This prevents freezer burn. Label it with the date and name for easy access.
When you want to reheat from frozen, take it out of the freezer. Let it thaw in the fridge overnight. Then, bake it at 350°F for about 30-40 minutes. Cover it with foil for the first 20 minutes to keep it moist.
Shelf Life
In the fridge, the casserole lasts about four days. If you freeze it, it can stay good for up to three months. Always check for signs of spoilage before eating. Look for off smells, discoloration, or mold. If you see any of these, it’s best to throw it away. Enjoy your leftovers while they’re fresh!
FAQs
How can I adjust the recipe for more servings?
To make this casserole for more people, simply scale up the ingredients.
– Use 1.5 lbs of ground beef for 8 servings.
– Add 1.5 cups of cream cheese and cheese for extra creaminess.
– Increase the veggies like bell peppers and onions to keep balance.
– Adjust the beef broth to 1.5 cups to maintain flavor.
This way, everyone gets a hearty portion of cheesy goodness.
Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, you can swap out provolone for other cheeses.
– Cheddar adds a sharp flavor that many love.
– Mozzarella gives a gooey texture.
– Swiss cheese can add a nutty taste.
You can even mix different cheeses for a unique twist!
What can I serve with the casserole?
Pair this casserole with simple side dishes.
– A fresh green salad adds crunch and color.
– Steamed broccoli brings a healthy touch.
– Cauliflower rice can keep it low-carb and filling.
These sides will help round out your meal nicely.
Is this casserole suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This casserole is great for meal prep.
– Make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge.
– Portion it into containers for easy lunches.
– It reheats well in the microwave or oven.
For best results, reheat until it’s hot and bubbly.
You can find the full recipe to guide your meal prep!
This blog post gave you all you need to make a tasty casserole. We looked at ingredients like ground beef, cheeses, and seasonings. I shared easy steps for preparation, mixing, baking, and even tips for perfecting your dish. You can customize the recipe with different ingredients or make it fit special diets. Remember to store leftovers properly for later enjoyment. This dish is not just a meal; it’s a warm, filling experience. Enjoy cooking and sharing this delicious recipe with others!
