Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is a low-carb twist on the classic Philly cheesesteak sandwich. This comforting casserole features all the savory flavors of a traditional cheesesteak, but with cauliflower rice instead of hoagie rolls, making it a keto-friendly, protein-packed meal. With bell peppers, onions, ground beef, and melted provolone cheese, this dish is quick to prepare, requiring only 30 minutes from start to finish, and is sure to be a family favorite!

Full Recipe: 

Ingredients

• 2 lbs lean ground beef (ground sirloin or 93/7 ground beef)

• 1 medium red bell pepper, thinly sliced

• 1 medium green bell pepper, thinly sliced

• 1 medium yellow onion, diced

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• ½ teaspoon fine salt

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 ½ teaspoons dried Italian seasoning

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 3 cups frozen cauliflower rice (10 oz bag)

• 8 oz cream cheese (full fat or reduced fat/Neufchatel)

• 6–7 oz sliced provolone cheese (9-10 slices)

• Chopped fresh parsley (optional for garnish)

Directions

1. Cook the Beef and Vegetables:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large oven-safe skillet, add the ground beef, bell pepper strips, onion, and garlic. Break up the beef as it cooks, and cook for 8-10 minutes, until browned.

2. Add Seasonings and Cauliflower Rice:
   Reduce the heat to low and stir in the salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika. Add the cauliflower rice and cream cheese, stirring until the cream cheese is melted and combined.

3. Top and Bake:
   Place the sliced provolone cheese on top of the beef mixture, covering it completely. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

4. Garnish and Serve:
   Remove from the oven, let sit for 5-10 minutes, then garnish with fresh parsley (optional). Serve warm and enjoy!

Nutrients (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350 kcal

• Protein: 34g

• Fat: 19g

  • Saturated Fat: 11g

• Carbohydrates: 12g

  • Fiber: 2g

  • Sugar: 6g

• Sodium: 542mg

• Cholesterol: 111mg

• Potassium: 477mg

• Calcium: 22% of the daily value

The Low-Carb Twist: Cauliflower Rice

One of the standout elements of this Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is the use of cauliflower rice in place of traditional hoagie rolls or other carb-heavy ingredients. Cauliflower rice has become a popular substitute in low-carb and keto diets because it offers a similar texture to rice, with a fraction of the carbohydrates. It’s also packed with nutrients, including fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants, making it an excellent choice for those looking to eat more vegetables while reducing their carb intake.

When used in this casserole, cauliflower rice absorbs the savory flavors from the ground beef, bell peppers, and onions, providing a neutral base that complements the richness of the cream cheese and provolone cheese. The cauliflower rice also helps to create a hearty texture, making the casserole feel satisfying and filling without the heavy carbs of traditional rice or bread.

Ground Beef: The Heart of the Casserole

Ground beef is the main protein source in this Philly Cheesesteak Casserole, contributing both flavor and texture to the dish. Ground sirloin or lean ground beef (such as 93/7) is often recommended for this recipe because it offers a good balance of flavor and lean meat without being overly fatty. As the beef cooks, it releases juices that mingle with the vegetables and seasonings, creating a flavorful base for the casserole.

Ground beef also absorbs the seasoning mix, which includes Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. The beef’s natural savory flavor pairs beautifully with the bell peppers and onions, which contribute a subtle sweetness and a satisfying crunch. The richness of the beef is complemented by the creamy texture of the cream cheese and the gooey provolone cheese, making every bite a savory experience.

The Vegetables: Bell Peppers and Onions

Bell peppers and onions are key vegetables in this casserole, providing both flavor and texture. Bell peppers, whether red, green, or yellow, add a fresh, slightly sweet crunch that balances the richness of the beef and cheese. The colorful peppers also bring a burst of color to the dish, making it visually appealing. Onions, when sautéed with garlic, develop a savory sweetness that enhances the overall flavor profile of the casserole.

Together, the bell peppers and onions create a base of vegetables that adds depth to the dish. Their slight sweetness contrasts with the savory beef and cheese, providing a well-rounded flavor that makes the casserole more interesting. The vegetables also contribute to the casserole’s nutritional value, offering vitamins and antioxidants that help support a healthy diet.

Cream Cheese and Provolone: The Cheesy Magic

No Philly cheesesteak is complete without cheese, and this casserole is no exception. Cream cheese and provolone cheese are the stars when it comes to creating that signature creamy, cheesy texture that makes the dish so comforting. Cream cheese is mixed into the casserole with the cauliflower rice, beef, and vegetables, providing a smooth, velvety texture that binds everything together. The creaminess of the cream cheese also helps to balance the savory and spicy flavors of the beef and seasonings.

Provolone cheese is the perfect finishing touch, placed on top of the casserole to melt into a gooey, bubbly layer that adds flavor and richness. As the casserole bakes, the provolone becomes beautifully golden and creates a deliciously cheesy crust on top. This cheese is mild yet flavorful, complementing the other ingredients without overpowering them. Together, the cream cheese and provolone cheese create a rich, indulgent casserole that satisfies those comfort food cravings while still staying within a low-carb framework.

The Seasonings: A Flavorful Blend

The seasoning blend in Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is key to achieving the bold, savory flavor that is characteristic of a traditional Philly cheesesteak sandwich. The mixture of Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper creates a well-rounded flavor profile that enhances the beef and vegetables. Italian seasoning, with its blend of herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme, brings an aromatic, herby note to the dish that ties everything together. Paprika adds a subtle smokiness and depth of flavor, making the casserole even more comforting.

These seasonings work in harmony with the beef, vegetables, and cheeses, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor. The salt and pepper are essential for bringing out the natural flavors of the beef and vegetables, while the paprika and Italian seasoning add complexity and balance to the dish.

Baking the Casserole: The Final Step

Baking the Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is a simple but important step in creating the perfect dish. Once the beef, vegetables, cauliflower rice, and cream cheese are combined in the skillet, the casserole is topped with slices of provolone cheese and baked until golden and bubbly. The high heat of the oven helps to melt the cheese and develop a crispy, cheesy crust on top. This final step creates a dish that is both visually appealing and delicious, with the melted cheese adding an extra layer of richness and flavor.

Baking the casserole for 10-12 minutes at 350°F (175°C) ensures that the cheese is melted and the dish is heated through, allowing the flavors to meld together. The result is a comforting, cheesy casserole that is both satisfying and low in carbs.

Serving Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is a versatile dish that can be served in many ways. It is hearty enough to be enjoyed on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. For a more substantial meal, you can serve the casserole with a simple salad or steamed vegetables to add freshness and balance the richness of the dish. The casserole can also be enjoyed with a side of low-carb bread or a cauliflower mash for a complete, keto-friendly meal.

If you prefer, you can add a drizzle of hot sauce or a sprinkle of chopped green onions on top for added flavor and a bit of heat. The casserole also makes a great meal prep option, as it can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days and reheated for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner.

Health Benefits of Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

While this Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is indulgent and comforting, it also offers several health benefits. By using cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice or bread, the dish is significantly lower in carbohydrates, making it a great option for those following a keto or low-carb diet. The ground beef provides a high-quality source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and overall body function. Additionally, the dish is rich in vitamins and minerals from the vegetables, such as bell peppers and onions, which offer antioxidants and nutrients like vitamin C and potassium.

The inclusion of healthy fats from olive oil and cream cheese adds a creamy texture and contributes to the dish’s rich flavor. These fats are primarily monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health and overall well-being. Additionally, the dish is gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Conclusion: A Delicious Low-Carb Comfort Food

In conclusion, Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is a flavorful and satisfying dish that brings the iconic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak sandwich into a low-carb, keto-friendly format. With tender ground beef, sautéed vegetables, creamy cheese, and cauliflower rice, this casserole is the perfect balance of rich and comforting flavors without the carbs. Whether you’re following a keto diet or simply looking for a delicious, hearty meal, this dish is sure to become a favorite. It’s easy to make, quick to prepare, and guaranteed to satisfy your cravings for comfort food with a healthier twist. Enjoy it as a standalone meal or pair it with your favorite sides for a well-rounded, satisfying dinner.