Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole: A Comforting Homestyle Meal
There’s something magical about walking into a kitchen filled with the savory scents of sizzling beef and melted cheese. The warm aromas waft through the air, inviting you to take a deep breath and smile as childhood memories of family dinners come rushing back. As a proud foodie, my heart swells every time I think about my beloved Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole. It’s a dish that not only delivers on flavor but also hugs you with comfort. Today, I’m excited to share my take on this delicious home-cooked staple, minus the carbs!
Why Make This Recipe
When it comes to simple dinners that delight the entire family, this Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole stands tall. Here’s why you’ll want to whip this up:
- Quick Prep: With just 15 minutes of prep time, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
- Cozy Flavors: Each bite is a warm embrace of juicy beef and ooey-gooey cheese.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Your loved ones will rave about this comforting recipe and ask for seconds!
- Versatile Ingredients: Swap veggies or proteins to create your own twist every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gather these ingredients to bring your Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole to life:
- 1 lb. of thinly sliced beef (like sirloin): Tender beef brings that classic cheesesteak flavor.
- 1 large onion: Sweet caramelized onions are the crown jewels of this dish.
- 1 green bell pepper: This adds a beautiful pop of color and crunch.
- 8 oz. of cream cheese: Provides that glorious richness when melted into the casserole.
- 1 cup shredded provolone cheese: The melting champion for that authentic cheesesteak experience.
- 1 tsp. garlic powder: Because garlic makes everything better!
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for elevating all those delicious flavors.
Feel free to substitute with ground turkey or add mushrooms for an earthy twist!
Prep and Cook Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 45 minutes
This recipe is quick enough to make on a busy weeknight yet rewarding enough to sit down and savor.
How to Make Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole
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Sauté the Veggies: In a large skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Once hot, add the sliced onion and green bell pepper. As they cook, the sweetness will fill your kitchen. Stir occasionally for about 5-7 minutes until they are tender.
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Brown the Beef: Push the veggies to the side of the skillet and add the sliced beef. Sprinkle on garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Break it up and let it brown, mixing with the veggies until fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
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Creamy Goodness: On low heat, add the cream cheese to the skillet. Stir gently until it is completely melted and combines with the beef and veggies into a heavenly, creamy mixture.
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Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 baking dish. Even it out and sprinkle the shredded provolone cheese generously on top.
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Bake: Place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
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Serve: Remove from oven and let it sit for a few minutes before digging in. Enjoy that ooey-gooey goodness!
Tips and Creative Variations
- Add Spices: For a bit of heat, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes.
- Cheese Swap: Try Swiss or cheddar for a different flavor profile.
- Extras: Toss in some sautéed mushrooms or jalapeños for an extra kick.
- Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like parsley or oregano could elevate the dish.
Serving Ideas
Picture this: You’ve just served your Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole, and the steam is still rising from the dish. Pair it with a crisp green salad or cauliflower rice for a low-carb balance. A glass of sparkling water garnished with lemon gives that refreshing touch. It’s a perfect dinner to share with loved ones around the dining table, exchanging stories and laughter.
Storing and Reheating
If you have leftovers (which is often a great sign!), let the casserole cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months! To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and heat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Pro Tips for Success
- Prep Ahead: Chop your vegetables and slice the beef the night before to save time.
- Invest in Quality Ingredients: The better the beef and cheese, the tastier your casserole.
- Layer the Flavors: If you have a favorite spice blend, don’t be shy to add some into the beef mixture!
FAQs
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Can I freeze this recipe?
Absolutely! Just let it cool and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. -
What’s the best substitute for cream cheese?
Greek yogurt or cottage cheese can be lighter substitutes in this recipe. -
Can I use ground beef instead of sliced beef?
Definitely! Ground beef will work beautifully and may even cook faster.
Conclusion
Every bite of this Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole warms the heart and soul. It’s a dish crafted with love, perfect for sharing with family and friends during cozy gatherings. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the joy of cooking, and create a memory around the dinner table. This casserole is not just a meal; it’s a timeless recipe worth cherishing and sharing. Cheers to creating delicious moments and heartfelt connections—one serving at a time!
Contents
Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb thinly sliced beef (like sirloin) Tender beef brings that classic cheesesteak flavor.
- 1 large onion Sweet caramelized onions are the crown jewels of this dish.
- 1 each green bell pepper Adds a beautiful pop of color and crunch.
- 8 oz cream cheese Provides that glorious richness when melted into the casserole.
- 1 cup shredded provolone cheese The melting champion for that authentic cheesesteak experience.
- 1 tsp garlic powder Because garlic makes everything better!
- Salt and pepper, to taste Essential for elevating all those delicious flavors.
Instructions
Cooking Steps
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Once hot, add the sliced onion and green bell pepper. Stir occasionally for about 5-7 minutes until they are tender.
- Push the veggies to the side of the skillet and add the sliced beef. Sprinkle on garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Break it up and let it brown, mixing with the veggies until fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
- On low heat, add the cream cheese to the skillet. Stir gently until it is completely melted and combines with the beef and veggies.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 baking dish. Even it out and sprinkle the shredded provolone cheese generously on top.
- Place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Remove from oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving.