Introduction
Philly Cheese Steak Casserole – Keto & Budget-Friendly! is a satisfying twist on the classic sandwich, transforming its bold flavors into a hearty, low-carb baked dish. By skipping the bread and focusing on seasoned beef, sautéed peppers, onions, and melted cheese, this casserole delivers all the comfort without the extra carbohydrates. It is rich, filling, and surprisingly simple to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep. I first made this recipe when looking for a keto-friendly dinner that would not compromise on flavor, and it quickly became a reliable favorite. The combination of savory beef and gooey cheese creates a comforting meal that feels indulgent yet practical. Whether you are following a low-carb lifestyle or simply want a budget-conscious dinner option, this casserole offers bold taste, easy preparation, and satisfying results in every bite.
Philly Cheese Steak Casserole – Keto & Budget-Friendly!
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
Philly Cheese Steak Casserole is a keto-friendly and budget-conscious comfort dish made with seasoned ground beef, sautéed peppers and onions, and plenty of melted cheese baked to perfection.
Ingredients
- 900 g ground beef
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 6 slices provolone cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook until softened.
- Season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Reduce heat and stir in cream cheese and heavy cream until creamy and combined.
- Transfer mixture to prepared baking dish.
- Top evenly with shredded mozzarella and provolone slices.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use ground turkey for a leaner option.
- Add mushrooms for extra flavor.
- Serve over cauliflower rice for a complete keto meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This casserole captures the classic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak while remaining low in carbohydrates and affordable to prepare. It is easy to assemble, reheats well, and requires simple, accessible ingredients. The rich, cheesy topping makes it comforting and filling without relying on bread.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Ground beef
Provides the hearty, savory base of the casserole and keeps the recipe budget-friendly.
Green bell peppers
Add crunch and mild sweetness that balances the richness of the beef.
Onion
Enhances flavor with natural sweetness and depth when sautéed.
Garlic
Infuses the beef mixture with aromatic warmth.
Olive oil
Used for sautéing vegetables and preventing sticking.
Cream cheese
Creates a creamy layer that binds the ingredients together.
Beef broth
Adds moisture and enhances the savory profile.
Worcestershire sauce
Provides classic cheesesteak flavor with tangy depth.
Provolone cheese
Melts beautifully on top, delivering authentic cheesesteak character.
Mozzarella cheese
Adds extra stretch and creamy texture.
Salt
Enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients.
Black pepper
Adds subtle heat and balance.
Directions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté the chopped onions and bell peppers until softened. Add minced garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.
Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess grease if necessary.
Stir in beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, allowing the mixture to simmer for a few minutes. Add cream cheese and stir until fully melted and incorporated. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Transfer the beef mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly. Top with slices of provolone and shredded mozzarella cheese.
Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Equipment needed :
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 6 people.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: Approximately 40 minutes
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through, or microwave individual portions in short intervals. This casserole also freezes well for up to two months when stored in a freezer-safe container.
Variations and Customizations
This casserole is highly adaptable to different preferences. For a more traditional cheesesteak flavor, use thinly sliced steak instead of ground beef, though this may increase the cost slightly.
You can add sliced mushrooms for additional texture and savory depth. They complement the beef and cheese beautifully.
If you prefer a spicier version, incorporate sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the beef mixture.
For an even creamier texture, increase the amount of cream cheese slightly.
White American cheese can replace provolone for a different flavor profile that remains authentic to the original sandwich inspiration.
For a dairy-free variation, use plant-based cream cheese and shredded cheese alternatives.
If not strictly keto, serve the casserole over cauliflower rice or alongside a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
Finally, adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley before serving can brighten the rich flavors and enhance presentation
Nutrition and Dietary Info
Approximate nutrition per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 kcal |
| Protein | 30 g |
| Carbohydrates | 6 g |
| Fat | 32 g |
| Saturated Fat | 15 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 3 g |
| Sodium | 620 mg |
Values may vary depending on ingredient brands used.
Expert Tips & Customizations
Drain Excess Fat
Removing excess grease prevents a heavy texture.
Do Not Overbake
Bake just until cheese melts to maintain creaminess.
Season Generously
Proper seasoning enhances the simple ingredient list.
Slice Vegetables Evenly
Uniform cuts ensure even cooking.
Let It Rest
Allow a few minutes before serving for cleaner portions.
FAQs
Is this recipe truly keto-friendly?
Yes, it is low in carbohydrates and high in protein and fat.
Can I use sliced steak instead of ground beef?
Yes, thinly sliced steak provides a more traditional texture.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate before baking.
Does it freeze well?
Yes, it freezes and reheats effectively.
Can I add mushrooms?
Yes, mushrooms are an excellent addition.
What can I serve with it?
A side salad or roasted vegetables pairs well.
Conclusion
Philly Cheese Steak Casserole – Keto & Budget-Friendly! delivers bold, comforting flavor without the added carbohydrates of traditional sandwiches. With simple preparation, affordable ingredients, and satisfying results, it is an excellent choice for weeknight dinners or meal prep. Rich, cheesy, and hearty, this casserole brings classic cheesesteak taste to a practical, low-carb format.
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