Name: Philly Cheesesteak Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 2 bell peppers diced; 1 large onion diced; 8 oz provolone cheese shredded; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Golden bubbling low carb philly cheesesteak casserole with melted cheese and colorful bell peppers | lonerecipes.com

I first encountered this recipe concept when I was searching for ways to enjoy my favorite flavors while maintaining a low-carb lifestyle. The traditional Philly cheesesteak has always been one of my comfort food favorites, but the bread was obviously off-limits. This casserole version captures every single flavor I love about the original - the savory beef, the sweet bell peppers, the creamy melted cheese - all baked together into one cohesive, satisfying dish. What I love most is how the flavors meld together during baking, creating something that's actually better than the sum of its parts. The cheese gets perfectly golden and bubbly on top while keeping everything underneath moist and flavorful. It's become my go-to recipe when I want to show people that low-carb eating doesn't mean sacrificing flavor or satisfaction.

Why I love this recipe

This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it proves that you don't need to give up your favorite flavors to eat healthily. I love how simple it is to prepare - just brown the beef, sauté the vegetables, layer everything in a dish, and let the oven do the work. The smell that fills the kitchen while it's baking is absolutely incredible and always brings my family running to see what's for dinner. What really makes me love this recipe is its versatility - I can add mushrooms, use different types of cheese, or even swap the beef for chicken or turkey. It's forgiving, delicious, and always turns out perfectly. Plus, the leftovers are fantastic, making it perfect for meal prep. Every time I make it, I'm reminded that healthy eating doesn't have to be boring or restrictive.

What You Need From Your Kitchen

Ground Beef: Brown thoroughly and drain excess fat
Bell Peppers: Dice into uniform pieces for even cooking
Onion: Dice and sauté until translucent
Provolone Cheese: Shred fresh for best melting results
Olive Oil: Use for browning beef and vegetables

Let's Make These Together

Prepare the Base: Start by browning the ground beef in a large skillet with olive oil. Make sure to break up the meat as it cooks to ensure even browning. This step builds the foundation of flavor for your entire casserole.
Add the Vegetables: Once the beef is cooked through, add your diced bell peppers and onions to the same skillet. The vegetables will absorb all those delicious beef flavors while they soften and become fragrant.
Season Everything: This is where the magic happens! Add your garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the beef and vegetable mixture. Stir everything together and let those flavors meld for a minute or two.
Assemble and Bake: Transfer your seasoned mixture to a greased baking dish, top with that beautiful shredded provolone cheese, and let the oven work its magic. The result will be a golden, bubbly masterpiece!

Recipe picture — Comfort food low carb casserole featuring melted provolone cheese and seasoned beef mixture | lonerecipes.com

Switch Things Up

I discovered this recipe during my keto journey when I was desperately craving a Philly cheesesteak but didn't want to break my diet. I remember the first time I made it, I was skeptical about how it would taste without the bread. But when I pulled it out of the oven with that golden, bubbly cheese on top, I knew I had found something special. My family couldn't believe it was low-carb! Now it's become our go-to weeknight dinner when we want something hearty and satisfying. I love how the bell peppers add that perfect crunch and sweetness that balances the rich, savory beef and cheese.

Perfect Pairings

This casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Roasted asparagus or steamed broccoli make excellent low-carb sides that complement the flavors perfectly. For those not following a strict keto diet, serve it with crusty bread or over cauliflower rice for an extra filling meal.

Cheesy keto casserole with ground beef layers topped with fresh cilantro and red peppers | lonerecipes.com

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?: Yes! You can assemble the entire casserole, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time if baking from cold.
→ What other cheeses work well in this recipe?: American cheese, mozzarella, or a blend of cheddar and provolone all work wonderfully. Choose based on your preference for mild or sharp flavors.
→ Can I add other vegetables?: Absolutely! Mushrooms, jalapeños, or even diced tomatoes make great additions. Just sauté them with the other vegetables to remove excess moisture.
→ How do I store leftovers?: Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the whole dish covered in a 350°F oven until heated through.
→ Is this recipe freezer-friendly?: Yes! The assembled casserole can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking, and add 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.

Conclusion

This Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole brings all the beloved flavors of the classic sandwich into a satisfying, keto-friendly dish. It's perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or when you're craving comfort food without the guilt. The combination of seasoned ground beef, colorful vegetables, and melted cheese creates a hearty meal that will satisfy everyone at your table.