If you’re craving the flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak but want something a little more cozy, satisfying, and low in carbs, this Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is about to become your new weeknight favorite. It brilliantly combines juicy ground beef, melty gooey cheese, colorful peppers, and savory onions in one bubbling, crave-worthy bake. Once fully combined, transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly, and you’re just minutes away from hearty, cheesy comfort that’s perfect for sharing with family or friends.

Once fully combined, transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredient list for this casserole is delightfully straightforward, relying on just a handful of staples to build those mouthwatering layers of flavor and texture. Each component has its job—together, they make magic in every bite!

Ground Beef: Use 2 lbs of ground beef for a rich, meaty base that gives the casserole substance and classic Philly flavor.
Onion: One large onion, diced, adds aromatic sweetness and depth that perfectly complements the peppers and beef.
Bell Peppers: Two bell peppers (green, red, or both) bring color, crunch, and that unmistakable Philly touch.
Garlic: Two cloves, minced, offer a fragrant boost—don’t skip this step for maximum flavor payoff!
Cream Cheese: One 8 oz package melts into the meat, lending luscious creaminess and helping everything stick together.
Worcestershire Sauce: Two tablespoons add tangy, savory depth—this is your not-so-secret flavor weapon.
Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning—taste as you go for the perfect balance.
Provolone Cheese: Eight ounces of sliced provolone bring classic cheesesteak vibes and gooey pull-apart texture.
Mozzarella Cheese: One and a half cups, shredded, melt beautifully and help brown the top layer.
Olive Oil: Just a tablespoon to sauté veggies and keep everything from sticking.

How to Make Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Give your 9×13 baking dish a generous coat of non-stick spray—this makes serving a breeze and ensures that none of the cheesy goodness gets left behind.

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and bell peppers, letting them cook for around 5-6 minutes until they start to soften and release their natural sweetness. Toss in the minced garlic for the last 30 seconds, stirring constantly so it becomes fragrant but never burns.

Step 3: Brown the Beef

Add your ground beef directly into the skillet with the vegetables. Sprinkle with salt and pepper, then brown the beef, using a spatula to break it up into bite-sized crumbles. You want no pink left—this should take about 7-8 minutes. The flavors will begin to melt together beautifully.

Step 4: Infuse with Flavor

Drizzle in the Worcestershire sauce, letting it coat the beef and veggies. This simple step deepens the overall savory flavor, lifting everything up to true cheesesteak status.

Step 5: Creamy Perfection

Reduce the heat to low and add the cream cheese right on top of the mixture. As you stir, the cream cheese will melt, transforming the filling into a rich, creamy concoction that holds together perfectly. This is where the magic happens—everything melds into that unmistakable Philly cheesesteak base.

Step 6: Once fully combined, transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly

Once fully combined, transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula. This ensures that every bite will have the perfect balance of meat, veggies, and creamy filling.

Step 7: Cheese It Up

Layer the provolone cheese slices directly on top of the casserole base, followed by a generous sprinkle of mozzarella. This double cheese layer is what takes your casserole from good to extraordinary, creating that stretchy, golden, irresistible top.

Step 8: Bake and Rest

Slide the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’re looking for the cheese on top to be melted, bubbly, and just starting to turn golden. Once done, let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes—this helps the layers settle and makes serving slices much easier.

How to Serve Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

Garnishes

A sprinkle of chopped parsley or fresh chives adds a pop of green and a touch of freshness. For a little zing, try a few sliced pickled jalapeños or a dusting of smoked paprika. It’s all about those finishing touches!

Side Dishes

This Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole plays well with simple sides. Consider pairing with a crisp green salad, roasted broccoli, or cauliflower rice for a complete, guilt-free meal that everyone will love.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, spoon portions into individual ramekins for portable, party-ready servings. Or, try stuffing the casserole filling into hollowed-out bell peppers and baking until bubbly—a super-festive presentation that still keeps things low carb! No matter how you serve it, just remember: once fully combined, transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly for that irresistible casserole effect.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your meal, any leftovers can be stored right in the fridge. Cover the casserole dish tightly with foil or transfer portions to airtight containers—it will stay fresh and tasty for up to 4 days.

Freezing

This casserole freezes beautifully. Simply let it cool completely before wrapping tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Label and freeze for up to 3 months. When a craving strikes, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until hot and cheese is bubbly again. If you’re in a hurry, individual servings can be microwaved for 2-3 minutes each. Either way, it’s just as satisfying as the day you made it!

FAQs

Can I use a different kind of meat?

Absolutely! Ground chicken or turkey would work great if you’re looking for a lighter option. You’ll still get a deliciously hearty result, especially if you keep all the other flavorful components in the mix.

What cheeses work best in this recipe?

Provolone and mozzarella are classic, but feel free to mix it up! Try pepper jack for a little heat, or swap in Monterey Jack if you want something even creamier. Combining cheeses gives you the best melt and maximum flavor.

Is this casserole really low carb?

Yes, this recipe skips the bread and swaps in veggies and protein-rich cheese, making it an excellent choice for anyone watching carbs. Just double-check any added sauces or toppings to make sure they align with your dietary goals.

Can I prep the casserole in advance?

You bet! Prepare everything up to the cheese topping, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it come a bit to room temperature and finish as instructed. This way, once fully combined, transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly, and pop it straight into the oven for a fuss-free dinner.

What’s the best way to double the recipe?

If you’ve got a crowd, simply double the ingredients and use two baking dishes. Make sure to divide the filling evenly so the layers cook and melt just right. Once fully combined, transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly in both pans.

Final Thoughts

There’s something special about gathering around a bubbling casserole that feels both nostalgic and exciting. If you haven’t tried this recipe yet, don’t wait—give it a go, and remember: once fully combined, transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly for a perfectly melty, flavor-packed Philly cheesesteak experience right out of your own oven!