low carb keto philly cheese steak casserole budget friendly recipe

Introduction

Craving a Philly Cheesesteak but trying to stick to a low-carb keto diet without breaking the bank? This cheesy, beefy, and unbelievably satisfying Keto Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is your answer! It’s a budget-friendly way to enjoy all the flavors of the classic sandwich, transformed into an easy-to-make casserole that’s perfect for meal prepping or a weeknight family dinner.

Keto Philly Cheesesteak Casserole: A Budget-Friendly Delight

Why This Recipe Works

• Low Carb & Keto-Friendly: Packed with healthy fats and minimal carbs, making it ideal for ketogenic diets.
• Budget-Conscious: Uses affordable ingredients like ground beef or cheaper cuts of steak.
• Easy to Make: Simple steps and readily available ingredients. No complicated cooking techniques required.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Great for making ahead and enjoying throughout the week.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love the cheesy, savory flavors.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Beef: Ground beef (80/20 or 85/15) or thinly sliced steak (such as flank steak or sirloin).
• Cheese: Provolone cheese is classic, but mozzarella or a cheddar blend works well too. Consider using pre-shredded cheese to save time and money.
• Vegetables: Onion (yellow or white), bell peppers (green, red, or a mix).
• Cream Cheese: Adds richness and creaminess to the casserole.
• Beef Broth: Enhances the flavor and adds moisture.
• Spices: Garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper.
• Optional: Mushrooms (sliced), hot sauce (for a kick).

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Beef: If using ground beef, brown it in a skillet over medium heat. Drain off any excess grease. If using steak, thinly slice it against the grain and cook in a skillet until browned.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the sliced onions and bell peppers to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Combine the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked beef, sautéed vegetables, softened cream cheese, beef broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
4. Assemble the Casserole: Pour the beef mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Add the Cheese: Top the casserole with the provolone (or mozzarella/cheddar) cheese.
6. Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Rest: Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Tips for Saving Money on Ingredients

• Buy in Bulk: Purchase ground beef or steak in bulk when it’s on sale and freeze it in portions.
• Use Frozen Vegetables: Frozen bell peppers and onions are often cheaper than fresh ones and just as nutritious.
• Check for Sales: Keep an eye out for sales on cheese and other ingredients.
• Utilize Leftovers: Use leftover steak or roast beef in this casserole to reduce food waste.
• Meal Planning: Plan your meals ahead of time to avoid impulse purchases and wasted ingredients.

Variations and Customizations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture.
• Mushroom Lovers: Include sautéed mushrooms for added flavor and texture.
• Creamy Sauce: For a richer sauce, add a splash of heavy cream to the beef mixture.
• Different Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or Monterey Jack.
• Add Jalapeños: For an extra layer of heat, incorporate diced jalapeños.

Conclusion

This low-carb keto Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is the perfect solution for a delicious, affordable, and satisfying meal. By using budget-friendly ingredients and simple techniques, you can enjoy the classic flavors of a Philly Cheesesteak without derailing your keto diet or emptying your wallet. So, ditch the bread, grab your ingredients, and get ready to savor this cheesy, beefy masterpiece!