Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that delivers on heartiness and flavor, look no further than the Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole! This delightful dish brings together the rich tastes of seasoned ground beef, savory bell peppers, and melted cheese, resulting in a mouthwatering experience. The beautiful layers of color and texture create an inviting presentation that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends.

Every bite promises a satisfying sensation, enriched by caramelized veggies and creamy cheese goodness. In this article, you’ll discover how to prepare this fantastic casserole with ease, learn about its nutritional benefits, and explore tips for serving it to impress your guests. Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Fresh Ingredients: This casserole uses fresh vegetables and high-quality beef, enhancing flavor.
2. Ease of Preparation: Simple steps make it a breeze to whip up, even for novice cooks.
3. Nutrition: Low in carbs yet high in protein, it’s a wholesome choice for health-conscious eaters.
4. Versatility: Customize with your favorite spices and cheeses to suit your taste.
5. Presentation: Its baked, cheesy layer makes for an impressive dish that looks as good as it tastes.

Whether cooking for a family meal or a fun gathering, this casserole is sure to delight!

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total time: 45-50 minutes
• Preparation time: 15 minutes
• Cooking time: 25 minutes

(Note that times may vary.)

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 fat ratio preferred)
• 1 large onion (diced)
• 2 large bell peppers (green, red, or mixed, diced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 8 oz cream cheese (softened to room temperature)
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 8 oz provolone cheese (sliced)
• 1.5 cups mozzarella cheese (shredded)
• 1 tbsp olive oil

How To Make Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray a 9×13 baking dish with non-stick spray. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and bell peppers to the hot oil, cooking for 5-6 minutes until they start to soften and become fragrant. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with your spatula as it cooks. Season generously with salt and pepper, cooking for 7-8 minutes until completely browned with no pink remaining. Drain excess fat if needed.

Stir in Worcestershire sauce and let it coat the meat mixture for enhanced flavor. Reduce heat to low and add the softened cream cheese, stirring until completely melted and creamy. Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Layer torn provolone pieces over the beef, then top with shredded mozzarella for that perfect cheese pull.

Bake for 22-25 minutes until cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden on top. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld together.

How to Serve

1. Presentation: Serve directly from the baking dish for a rustic look, or scoop into individual bowls.
2. Accompaniments: Pair it with a fresh garden salad or low-carb garlic bread for a complete meal.
3. Portions: Cut into generous squares for easy serving, great for sharing!
4. Beverage Pairing: Enjoy with a light beer or sparkling water to balance the dish’s richness.

Embrace these serving tips for the ultimate dining experience!

Additional Tips

• Flavor Enhancement: Add a pinch of your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick.
• Customization: Swap ingredients like shredded chicken or turkey for a tasty twist.
• Serving Suggestions: Top with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for brightness and color.

Recipe Variations

1. Italian Twist: Add Italian seasoning and spinach for a Mediterranean flavor and extra nutrition.
2. Spicy Kick: Mix in jalapeños or pepper jack cheese for a spicy version that intrigues the palate.
3. Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with cooked lentils or tempeh for a satisfying veggie alternative.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: For best results, freeze in individual portions; it lasts about 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Special Equipment

• Large skillet
• 9×13 baking dish
• Non-stick cooking spray
• Spatula
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

FAQ’s

1. Can I use frozen ingredients?
Yes, frozen bell peppers and onions can be used, but fresh ingredients will yield better flavor.

2. Is this casserole healthy?
Absolutely! It’s low in carbs while being high in protein, making it a nutritious choice.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it a day in advance and simply bake when ready to serve.

4. Are there ways to customize this casserole?
Definitely! Feel free to try different meats, cheeses, or veggies that you enjoy.

5. What are alternative cooking methods?
You can cook it in a slow cooker or Instant Pot for convenience, adjusting the cooking times accordingly.

Conclusion

The Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is a flavorful, easy dish that everyone will love. Its combination of delicious ingredients not only satisfies your taste buds but also aligns with healthy eating habits. Perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners, this casserole is a culinary delight you’ll make again and again. Dive into a bowl of this cheesy goodness today!