If you’re craving all the hearty, melty goodness of a classic Philly cheesesteak but want to keep it low carb and packed with flavor, look no further than this Cheesy Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole Recipe. This dish takes tender, seasoned steak, vibrant bell peppers and onions, and layers them under a blanket of ooey-gooey cheese, baked to perfection in a casserole dish. It’s a comforting, satisfying meal that feels indulgent while staying keto-friendly. Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleaser for friends, this casserole hits all the right notes with its rich, creamy sauce and irresistible aroma.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Cheesy Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole Recipe is in its simplicity. Each ingredient brings something essential to the table—whether it’s juicy, thinly sliced steak for savoriness, colorful bell peppers for sweetness and crunch, or creamy cheeses for that luscious melt. These ingredients come together effortlessly to create layers of flavor and texture that make this dish unforgettable.
- 1 lb ribeye steak or flank steak: Thinly sliced steak delivers the tender, meaty base essential to Philly cheesesteaks.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps achieve a golden sear on the steak and softens the veggies beautifully.
- 1 small onion: Thinly sliced for sweetness and caramelized depth.
- 1 green bell pepper: Adds a slight crunch and fresh flavor.
- 1 red bell pepper: Brings vibrant color and natural sweetness.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Creates a rich, velvety sauce that coats everything perfectly.
- 1/2 cup beef broth: Enhances savory depth and moistens the casserole.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Provides aromatic warmth and boosts the flavor profile.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to balance and enhance every bite.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded provolone cheese: Melts beautifully and adds the classic Philly cheesesteak flavor.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional): For an extra cheesy, sharp kick that’s totally irresistible.
- Chopped fresh parsley: Adds a fresh herbal note and a pop of color as garnish.
- Hot sauce (optional): Perfect for those who like a spicy twist on this comforting casserole.
How to Make Cheesy Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Sear the Steak to Perfection
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add your thinly sliced ribeye or flank steak, then season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Let the meat cook until it’s nicely browned, which usually takes about 3 to 5 minutes. This step seals in those rich juices that make the steak so deliciously tender. Once done, remove the steak from the skillet and set it aside to keep the flavors locked in while you move on.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Using the same skillet gives you an amazing advantage as it carries over all the savory bits left behind by the steak. Toss in the thinly sliced onions and bell peppers and sauté them for about 4 to 5 minutes. You’re looking for softened, slightly caramelized veggies that add a natural sweetness to balance the savory meat. If the pan looks a bit dry, don’t hesitate to splash in a little more olive oil to keep everything from sticking.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce and Combine
Now it’s time to bring the whole dish together. In a small bowl, whisk the heavy cream with the beef broth until well incorporated. Pour this luscious mix into the skillet along with your cooked steak and sautéed vegetables. Give everything a gentle stir and let it simmer for about 3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and coat every tasty ingredient.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the steak and vegetable mixture to a greased casserole dish, spreading it out evenly so every bite gets a taste of this hearty filling. Generously sprinkle the shredded provolone cheese on top, and if you’re going for extra cheesiness, add the cheddar cheese too. This layer of cheese will bubble up and create that irresistible golden crust every Philly cheesesteak lover dreams of.
Step 5: Bake to Melty, Bubbly Perfection
Pop your casserole into a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 10 to 12 minutes. This short bake ensures the cheeses melt completely and form a bubbly, slightly crispy top that’s absolutely mouthwatering. Keep an eye on it near the end so it doesn’t overcook—melty is the goal here, not burnt.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, let the casserole rest for a few minutes to set up. Sprinkle the top with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. If you’re a fan of a little heat, drizzle on some hot sauce—you’ll love the spicy kick alongside the rich cheese and tender steak. Then, dive in and enjoy every comforting, cheesy bite!
How to Serve Cheesy Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a simple yet beautiful garnish that adds a bright, herbal note and separates this casserole visually from ordinary comfort food. If you want a bit more zing, sliced jalapeños or a dash of smoked paprika make excellent options. Hot sauce is a personal favorite around here—just enough to wake up the flavors without overpowering them.
Side Dishes
Because this casserole is low carb and quite filling on its own, pairing it with light, fresh sides is ideal. Think crisp leafy salads with lemon vinaigrette, roasted asparagus, or simple steamed broccoli tossed in butter and garlic. These sides complement the richness of the casserole while keeping the meal balanced and nutritious.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this casserole in individual ramekins for impressive single portions or at a potluck-style gathering. You can also experiment by layering the steak and veggies between thin slices of grilled zucchini or eggplant before topping with cheese for a deconstructed look. Either way, this casserole is sure to steal the show.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cheesy Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole Recipe stays fantastic when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen after sitting for a bit, making it an excellent make-ahead meal for busy days when you want a quick, satisfying dinner ready to go.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully if you want to save some for later. Simply assemble it fully but hold off on baking, then wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil before popping it into the freezer. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed to heat through completely.
Reheating
To reheat, the best method is using an oven or toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and bubbly again—about 10 to 15 minutes. This helps maintain that wonderful melted cheese texture. Microwaving works in a pinch but can make the cheese a bit rubbery, so half the fun is giving it a crisp reheating.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese in this casserole?
Absolutely! While provolone and cheddar are classic choices, you can experiment with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a sharp gouda for different flavor profiles. Just be sure to use cheeses that melt well for that signature gooey texture.
Is this casserole keto-friendly?
Yes, this recipe is designed specifically as a low carb, keto-friendly meal by focusing on protein, healthy fats, and low-carb vegetables, making it a perfect dish for those watching their carbohydrate intake.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You could substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and use a dairy-free cheese alternative, but keep in mind the taste and texture will change somewhat from the classic cheese-laden casserole. Experimentation might be needed to get it just right.
What can I substitute if I don’t have ribeye or flank steak?
Any thinly sliced beef cut works well, including sirloin or even ground beef in a pinch. The key is to get tender meat that cooks quickly and retains juiciness.
How spicy is this casserole?
The base recipe is mild, letting the natural flavors shine. However, you can add hot sauce or diced chili peppers either during cooking or as a garnish to adjust the heat to your liking.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend enough that you give this Cheesy Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole Recipe a try. It’s comforting, packed with flavor, and surprisingly easy to make. Whether you’re keeping up with a low-carb lifestyle or just want a delicious spin on a classic favorite, this casserole delivers all the cheesy, meaty goodness you could crave in one satisfying dish. Your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Cheesy Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4-4.4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
This Cheesy Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is a healthy and flavorful keto-friendly dinner option. Combining tender ribeye steak, sautéed bell peppers and onions, and a creamy cheese sauce, it’s a comforting casserole that captures all the deliciousness of a classic Philly cheesesteak without the carbs. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal, it bakes to bubbly, cheesy perfection and can be garnished with fresh parsley and a dash of hot sauce for extra flavor.
Ingredients
Steak and Vegetables
- 1 lb ribeye steak or flank steak, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
Cheese and Sauce
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 1/2 cups shredded provolone cheese (or mozzarella)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for extra cheesiness)
Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
- Hot sauce, if you like a spicy kick
Instructions
- Cook the Steak: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add thinly sliced steak and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Cook for 3-5 minutes until the steak is browned but still tender. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add onions and bell peppers. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened and caramelized, stirring occasionally. Add more oil if the skillet becomes too dry.
- Create Creamy Mixture: In a bowl, whisk together heavy cream and beef broth. Pour this mixture into the skillet with the cooked vegetables, then add the browned steak back in. Stir gently and simmer everything together for 3 minutes to blend flavors.
- Assemble the Casserole: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the steak and vegetable mixture into a greased casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. Evenly sprinkle shredded provolone and cheddar cheese over the top to create a rich, cheesy layer.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes until the cheese is thoroughly melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and add hot sauce if desired for a spicy kick. Serve warm and enjoy your low carb Philly cheesesteak casserole!
Notes
- You can substitute ribeye with flank steak or sirloin for a leaner option.
- Use provolone cheese for the most authentic Philly cheesesteak flavor, or mozzarella if preferred.
- If you want to keep it dairy-free, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use dairy-free cheese alternatives.
- Adjust the seasoning by adding additional garlic powder or a pinch of smoked paprika for extra depth.
- This casserole reheats well and makes great leftovers for the next day.
