Philly Cheesesteak Casserole (Keto & Low Carb) – Easy One-Pan Dinner

When you think of comfort food, a classic Philly cheesesteak might be one of the first things that comes to mind. Juicy, thinly sliced beef, sautéed onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms, all smothered in gooey melted cheese—it’s a flavor-packed combination that’s hard to resist. But what if you could enjoy all that deliciousness without the carbs? That’s where this Philly Cheesesteak Casserole comes in.

This recipe takes all the best parts of a traditional Philly cheesesteak and transforms them into a baked, cheesy, and satisfying casserole that fits perfectly into a low-carb or keto lifestyle. No bread, no unnecessary fillers—just pure, savory goodness in every bite. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make with just one skillet and a quick bake in the oven.

I first made this dish when I was craving a Philly cheesesteak but didn’t want to deal with making low-carb bread or going through the hassle of assembling individual sandwiches. I wanted something simple, hearty, and packed with protein to keep me full and satisfied. After a few tweaks, I ended up with a creamy, cheesy, and flavor-packed casserole that became an instant favorite in my home.

Whether you’re following a keto diet, looking for a gluten-free dinner option, or just want an easy, one-pan meal, this recipe is for you. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or even serving a crowd. Plus, it’s completely customizable, so you can adjust the ingredients to fit your taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons to love this Philly Cheesesteak Casserole, and once you try it, you’ll see why it has become a staple in so many households.

1. Easy to Make – With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep work, this casserole comes together in under 30 minutes. Most of the cooking happens in one skillet, and then the oven does the rest.
2. Keto & Low-Carb Friendly – Traditional Philly cheesesteaks are served on hoagie rolls, but this version skips the bread while keeping all the flavor and satisfaction. It’s perfect for anyone following a low-carb or gluten-free diet.
3. High in Protein – With about 34 grams of protein per serving, this dish keeps you full and energized, making it an excellent option for meal prep or post-workout fuel.
4. Rich, Creamy, and Cheesy – The combination of melted provolone, cream cheese, and savory beef creates an irresistible texture and flavor that will keep you coming back for more.
5. One-Pan Convenience – Less mess, fewer dishes, and quick cleanup make this recipe a winner for busy nights.
6. Customizable – Whether you prefer ribeye, sirloin, or ground beef, or you want to add extra veggies or spices, this recipe is flexible and easy to adapt to your preferences.

Health Benefits

Not only is this Philly Cheesesteak Casserole delicious, but it also comes with some great health benefits, especially if you’re following a low-carb, high-protein diet.

1. High in Protein – Beef is an excellent source of protein, which is essential for muscle growth, repair, and keeping you feeling full. Protein also helps regulate metabolism and supports overall body function.
2. Low in Carbs – Unlike traditional cheesesteaks, which are loaded with refined carbs from the bread, this version keeps it low-carb and keto-friendly. This helps stabilize blood sugar levels and can support weight management.
3. Rich in Healthy Fats – The combination of beef, cheese, and olive oil provides healthy fats that support brain function, energy levels, and hormone regulation.
4. Loaded with Nutrients – Bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms provide essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants, which help boost the immune system and promote overall health.
5. Gluten-Free – This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 6

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 454 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Protein: 34g
• Fat: 33g
• Saturated Fat: 16g
• Sodium: 703mg
• Vitamin C: 39mg
• Calcium: 300mg

Ingredients List

To make this Philly Cheesesteak Casserole, you’ll need:

Main Ingredients

• 1 ½ lbs beef (thinly sliced ribeye, sirloin, or ground beef)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 1 large green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 large red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup mushrooms (optional), sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp garlic salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ cup beef broth
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 6 slices provolone cheese

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This allows it to be hot and ready for when you finish preparing the casserole.

Cook the Beef

• Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
• Add the thinly sliced beef or ground beef and season with garlic salt and black pepper.
• Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
• Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

• In the same skillet, add another 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
• Toss in the onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms.
• Sauté for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften.
• Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Add Creamy Sauce

• Pour in beef broth and Worcestershire sauce to deglaze the skillet, scraping up any browned bits for extra flavor.
• Stir in the cream cheese until fully melted and combined with the vegetables.

Combine the Beef and Vegetables

• Return the cooked beef to the skillet and mix everything together.

Add Cheese and Bake

• Layer the provolone cheese on top of the beef and vegetable mixture.
• Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and melted.
• For a golden, crispy top, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Serve and Enjoy

• Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.

How to Serve

This Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is delicious on its own, but here are some great ways to serve it:

• With a side salad – A fresh Caesar salad or arugula salad balances the richness of the dish.
• Over cauliflower rice – For an extra hearty meal without adding carbs.
• With low-carb tortillas – Wrap the mixture in a low-carb tortilla for a cheesesteak wrap.

Pairing Suggestions

To make it a complete meal, serve this casserole with:

• Steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or green beans.
• Mashed cauliflower as a low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes.
• A refreshing cucumber and tomato salad for a light and fresh contrast.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

• Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• Freeze: Allow the casserole to cool completely, then freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or microwave individual portions.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though this Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is easy to make, a few common mistakes can affect the final result. By keeping these in mind, you can ensure a perfectly cheesy, flavorful, and satisfying dish every time.

One of the biggest mistakes is using the wrong cut of beef. The best options for this dish are thinly sliced ribeye, sirloin, or shaved beef because they cook quickly and remain tender. Avoid using stew meat or tougher cuts that take longer to break down, as they can make the casserole chewy rather than juicy. If you’re using ground beef, make sure to drain excess grease after cooking to prevent a greasy casserole.

Overcrowding the skillet when cooking the beef is another mistake that leads to steaming instead of browning. When the pan is too crowded, the beef releases too much moisture and doesn’t develop the deep, rich flavors that come from searing. Cook the beef in batches if needed to ensure even browning.

Forgetting to sauté the vegetables properly can also impact the flavor. If the onions and bell peppers aren’t softened enough before baking, they can taste raw and overpowering. Sautéing them until they are tender and slightly caramelized enhances their natural sweetness and balances the dish.

Another common mistake is not blending the cream cheese properly. The cream cheese should be fully melted and incorporated into the sauce before adding the beef back into the skillet. If not mixed well, it can create uneven pockets of cheese instead of a smooth, creamy texture.

Lastly, skipping the broiling step can lead to a casserole that is just melted rather than golden and bubbly. Broiling for a couple of minutes at the end adds an extra layer of texture and depth to the cheese topping.

By avoiding these mistakes, you’ll ensure a delicious, restaurant-quality Philly Cheesesteak Casserole every time.

Pro Tips

To make this dish even better, a few simple tips and tricks will elevate the flavors, textures, and overall experience.

For the best beef texture, slice it against the grain. This means cutting perpendicular to the natural lines in the meat, which helps keep it tender and easy to chew. If your beef is too thick, you can place it in the freezer for 15-20 minutes before slicing to make it easier to cut into thin strips.

If you want a richer and deeper flavor, try searing the beef first without moving it for at least 2 minutes before stirring. This helps develop a golden-brown crust that enhances the taste of the dish. For an even more authentic cheesesteak flavor, add a splash of beef broth or Worcestershire sauce while cooking the beef.

Using a combination of cheeses can make a big difference in flavor. Provolone is the traditional choice, but adding shredded mozzarella, white cheddar, or Monterey Jack can give it a unique twist. If you like a little extra creaminess, mix in a handful of shredded cheese into the meat mixture before baking.

For an ultra-smooth cheese sauce, let the cream cheese come to room temperature before adding it to the skillet. This makes it easier to melt and mix into the beef and vegetables, creating a creamy and well-blended filling.

If you want extra crispy cheese, sprinkle some shredded Parmesan on top before broiling. This will give the casserole a golden crust that adds an irresistible texture.

To make this dish meal-prep friendly, you can cook the beef and vegetable mixture in advance and store it in an airtight container for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply transfer it to an oven-safe dish, add the cheese, and bake.

For a little kick, try adding red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños to the vegetable mixture. This will bring a subtle heat that complements the savory flavors of the beef and cheese.

With these pro tips, your Philly Cheesesteak Casserole will be even more delicious and foolproof.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use ground beef instead of sliced steak?
Yes! Ground beef is a great alternative, especially if you want a more budget-friendly option. Just be sure to drain excess fat after cooking so that the casserole doesn’t become too greasy.

What’s the best cheese for a Philly cheesesteak casserole?
Provolone is the classic choice, but you can also use mozzarella, white cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a mix of cheeses for a unique twist. If you prefer a more gooey texture, try using American cheese slices instead.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the beef and vegetable mixture in advance, store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and then bake it with cheese when ready to serve. This makes it perfect for meal prepping.

How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, use the oven or stovetop for the best results. Avoid microwaving for too long, as it can make the cheese rubbery.

Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes! Let the casserole cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe dish for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes.

Conclusion & Call to Action

This Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is the perfect dish for anyone looking for a low-carb, high-protein, and incredibly flavorful meal that’s easy to make. With tender beef, sautéed onions and peppers, and gooey melted cheese, it brings all the flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak without the bread. Whether you’re following a keto diet, looking for a gluten-free dinner, or just want a one-pan meal that’s packed with flavor, this recipe is a must-try.

One of the best things about this dish is how versatile it is. You can use ribeye, sirloin, ground beef, or even chicken. You can mix up the cheese combinations to create your perfect level of creaminess. And if you like a little heat, adding spicy jalapeños or red pepper flakes is a great way to take it up a notch.

Now it’s your turn to try this Philly Cheesesteak Casserole! I’d love to hear how it turns out for you. Leave a comment below with your thoughts, or share a photo of your casserole on social media. If you make any fun variations, let me know—I love seeing your creative twists on my recipes!

Don’t forget to save this recipe for later and share it with friends who love easy, low-carb meals. Happy cooking!

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