Cheesy Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole Everyone Will Crave
This hearty and cheesy low carb Philly cheesesteak casserole brings all the bold flavors of your favorite sandwich—without the bread. With juicy beef, caramelized onions and peppers, and melty provolone cheese, it’s a comfort food classic turned keto-friendly. Ready in under 40 minutes, it’s the perfect easy weeknight bake.
Cheesy Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole Everyone Will Crave
Bubbling cheese. Sautéed peppers. Savory beef. If you’re anything like me, you probably grew up watching your favorite diners serve Philly cheesesteaks piled high and dripping with flavor. I still remember my first trip to Philly — messy hands, toasted rolls, and napkins everywhere. But these days? I’m skipping the bread and leaning into bold flavor with fewer carbs. That’s where this cheesy low carb Philly cheesesteak casserole comes in.
This dish was born out of my craving for that classic cheesesteak taste but with a feel-good twist. One night, post grocery run, I had bell peppers, onions, steak, and cream cheese — and I thought, why not turn it into a casserole? It quickly became a regular on my weekday menu: quick to throw together, satisfying in every bite, and easy to tweak based on whatever’s in the fridge.
Whether you’re following keto, watching your carbs, or just love melty cheese and savory beef, this casserole is your new go-to. It’s one of those “set it and forget it” weeknight dinners, but it delivers big on flavor. And the best part? There’s no missing the bun — trust me.
Also Read: Low Carb Cinnamon Roll Cake (Keto-Friendly & Delicious!)
Why This Cheesy Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole Feels Like Home
This recipe is everything I love about comfort food: simple, rich, and satisfying. It captures the nostalgic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak — caramelized onions, juicy meat, oozy provolone — but keeps things light enough for a low-carb lifestyle. I’ve tested a lot of variations (some inspired by my keto alfredo chicken bake) and this one hits all the right notes.
The heart of the dish is all about layering. You start with perfectly cooked steak or ground beef, toss in some sautéed onions and bell peppers, add a touch of creaminess with either cream cheese or heavy cream, and then top it all off with a blanket of provolone. Once it bakes, it transforms into a bubbling, cheesy masterpiece.
And here’s what I love most: it’s flexible. You can swap in mushrooms, use ground turkey, or even make it a meatless Monday option with jackfruit and extra veggies. The base flavors are so solid, they carry any variation beautifully.
A Comforting Dinner Without the Carbs
I know what you’re thinking — doesn’t a cheesesteak need bread? Normally, yes. But in this case, you won’t miss it for a second. The cheesy low carb Philly cheesesteak casserole takes all the best parts of the sandwich — the gooey cheese, the hearty meat, the sweet caramelized peppers and onions — and ditches the carb-heavy roll. The result? A dinner that satisfies every time without the sluggish aftermath.
Plus, it’s a real crowd-pleaser. My family loves it, even the ones who aren’t watching their carbs. And if you’re meal prepping, this casserole reheats like a dream. I often pair it with a quick side salad or roasted zucchini (which you can find in my low carb sides guide).
What Makes This Casserole So Satisfying
If you’re craving a dish that’s loaded with flavor but fits your low-carb lifestyle, this cheesy low carb Philly cheesesteak casserole hits every mark. It’s not just another keto casserole — it’s inspired by one of the most iconic sandwiches out there, and it delivers big on both nostalgia and nutrition.
The beauty of this dish is in its simplicity. We’re talking about layers of tender beef or ground steak, sweet sautéed onions, crisp bell peppers, and a creamy filling, all topped with bubbly, golden provolone cheese. That combo gives you a casserole that feels indulgent while keeping your carb count in check. It’s ideal for busy weeknights when you want something hearty but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
One of my favorite tricks? Use a mix of red and green peppers for a pop of color and a slight sweetness. It balances beautifully with the savory cheese and rich beef. And if you’re a mushroom fan, go ahead and toss some in — they soak up all that cheesy goodness like sponges.
Looking for another comfort-food classic turned low carb? You’ll love this stuffed bell peppers casserole, which follows a similar no-fuss formula.
Choosing the Right Ingredients for the Best Flavor
This casserole shines when you choose ingredients that bring richness and depth. While traditional cheesesteaks use thinly sliced ribeye, ground beef works beautifully here and cuts prep time in half. Plus, it’s affordable and always in my freezer.
Cream cheese adds body and smoothness to the filling — a little goes a long way. You can also use heavy cream for a lighter texture if you prefer. And when it comes to cheese, provolone is classic, but mozzarella melts like a dream. For a twist, try mixing both.
Need more ideas for fast and flavorful keto dinners? My keto chicken alfredo bake is another cheesy favorite you won’t want to miss.
Tips, Tricks, and Variations to Make It Your Own
Getting your cheesy low carb Philly cheesesteak casserole just right doesn’t require culinary school — just a few smart tips that make all the difference. After testing this recipe every which way, I’ve found a few go-to techniques to guarantee melt-in-your-mouth results every time.
Start with a good sear on your beef. Whether you’re using shaved steak or ground beef, browning the meat adds a deep, caramelized flavor that makes the whole dish pop. Don’t rush the onions and peppers either — cook them low and slow to bring out their natural sweetness.
If you’re adding cream cheese, soften it before mixing it into the pan. It’ll melt faster and blend smoothly without clumps. Want a richer texture? Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a bit of sour cream. The sauce should be creamy but not runny — you want it to coat the beef and veggies, not drown them.
Once it’s baked, let it rest for five minutes before serving. This helps everything set and makes the slices easier to dish out.
Craving more low-carb comfort meals? Try this low carb mushroom chicken bake — it uses similar flavors with a delicious twist.
Customize It Your Way: Ground Beef, Crockpot, or Meatless
The great thing about this casserole? You can adapt it based on what’s in your fridge.
Ground beef is a fan favorite for how easy and affordable it is. Just brown it and go. But if you want to get closer to the real cheesesteak experience, try thinly sliced sirloin or even leftover roast beef.
Going meatless? Swap the beef for sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or even tofu crumbles. You’ll still get that savory, cheesy payoff.
If slow cookers are more your speed, you’ll love the crockpot version. Just toss everything in, layer with provolone, and let it bubble away on low. Dinner practically makes itself — like magic.
You can also make it dairy-free using vegan cream cheese and dairy-free mozzarella. It won’t taste exactly the same, but it’ll still be rich and comforting.
And if you’re planning ahead for the week, this dish pairs well with sides from my keto casserole meal plan — think cauliflower mash or roasted veggies for a complete meal.
Serving, Storage & Meal Prep Tips for Busy Bakers
There’s something deeply comforting about pulling a golden, cheesy casserole from the oven — and this cheesy low carb Philly cheesesteak casserole is no exception. Whether you’re serving it fresh for dinner or prepping for the week ahead, this dish is incredibly flexible.
The Best Ways to Serve It (And What to Pair It With)
This casserole holds its own, but a few simple sides can take it from great to unforgettable. I love pairing it with a crisp green salad or lightly roasted vegetables like zucchini, broccoli, or cauliflower. If you’re after a fuller meal, serve it with cauliflower rice to soak up that creamy, cheesy goodness.
You can also spoon it into bell pepper halves or low-carb wraps for a hand-held option that mimics the original sandwich feel — without the bread. Want a little crunch? Top it with crushed pork rinds before baking for a crispy topping.
If you’re entertaining or feeding a crowd, this casserole is a true no-fuss star. It’s a dish that satisfies picky eaters and keto lovers alike.
For more weeknight-friendly ideas, check out these keto sides and sauces that pair beautifully with bold flavors like this.
Make-Ahead, Freeze, Reheat: Your Meal Prep Game Plan
This recipe is a lifesaver when it comes to meal prep. You can make the entire casserole ahead of time, then refrigerate it before baking. When you’re ready to eat, pop it in the oven until it’s hot and bubbly — perfect for a weeknight win.
Want to freeze it? Let the casserole cool completely, then wrap it tightly in foil and freeze it for up to 3 months. I like to divide it into individual portions and freeze those for grab-and-go lunches.
When reheating, warm it up gently in the oven at 300°F or in the microwave with a damp paper towel to keep it moist.
For full prep-ahead strategies, my keto meal prep guide walks you through how to stock your freezer with casseroles like this that don’t taste like leftovers.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole
What makes this an easy cheesy low carb Philly cheesesteak casserole?
This casserole comes together in one pan, uses basic ingredients, and takes under 40 minutes from prep to plate. With just ground beef, cream cheese, peppers, onions, and provolone, it’s a no-fuss, flavor-packed dish you’ll make again and again.
Is this the best cheesy low-carb Philly cheesesteak casserole recipe?
Absolutely — especially if you love bold flavor and minimal carbs. The balance of creamy filling, sautéed veggies, and melty cheese gives you all the comfort of a Philly cheesesteak without the bread or heaviness.
How does this compare to the Philly Cheesesteak Casserole from Pioneer Woman?
The Pioneer Woman’s version typically uses a crust or biscuit topping. This low-carb version skips any dough and relies on seasoned meat and vegetables for structure, making it better suited for keto and gluten-free diets.
Can I make keto Philly cheesesteak casserole with ground beef?
Yes! Ground beef is one of the easiest and most affordable swaps. It’s flavorful, cooks fast, and still pairs beautifully with the cheese and vegetables.
Is there a version of cheesy low carb Philly cheesesteak casserole without cream cheese?
Definitely. You can skip the cream cheese and use heavy cream or even ricotta for a lighter option. It won’t be as thick, but it’ll still be rich and satisfying.
Have you tried the Philly cheesesteak casserole from Allrecipes?
While Allrecipes has many versions, this recipe focuses more on low-carb simplicity and bold flavor. It’s easy to prep, adaptable, and ideal for keto-friendly families.
What’s the best way to make Philly cheesesteak casserole with cream cheese?
Soften the cream cheese first, then mix it into warm beef and vegetables off the heat. This helps it melt smoothly and create a creamy, flavorful base before topping with provolone and baking.
Conclusion
This cheesy low carb Philly cheesesteak casserole is more than a dinner — it’s the kind of comforting, flavor-forward dish that makes everyone at the table happy. Whether you’re keeping it keto, cutting back on carbs, or just want something easy and delicious, this casserole covers all the bases.
Make it once, and I promise it’ll earn a permanent spot in your weeknight rotation. And hey, don’t be surprised if even the bread lovers ask for seconds.
Please let me know how it turned out for you! Leave a comment below and tag @foodiecreator on Instagram and hashtag it #foodiecreator. I’d love to see how you make it your own.
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Cheesy Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole Everyone Will Crave
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
All the flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak — minus the carbs. This cheesy low carb Philly cheesesteak casserole is rich, creamy, and keto-approved!
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef or thinly sliced steak 1 small onion, sliced 1 bell pepper (green or red), sliced 1/2 cup cream cheese (softened) 1 cup shredded mozzarella or provolone 1 tsp garlic powder Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F. 2. In a large skillet, brown the beef over medium heat and drain excess grease. 3. Add sliced onion and bell pepper; sauté until softened. 4. Stir in cream cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until creamy. 5. Transfer mixture to a greased 8×8 baking dish. 6. Top with shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese. 7. Bake for 15–20 minutes or until cheese is bubbly and golden.
Notes
You can swap ground beef for sirloin or use mushrooms for a vegetarian version. To make it dairy-free, use plant-based cream cheese and mozzarella. Pairs well with cauliflower rice or a simple side salad.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
