Introduction
Busy weeknights often lead to unhealthy takeout choices. But what if you could have a delicious, comforting, and keto-friendly meal on the table in under an hour? This low-carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is the answer! It captures all the savory goodness of a classic Philly cheesesteak without the bread, making it perfect for those following a ketogenic or low-carb diet. Quick to assemble, packed with flavor, and requiring minimal cleanup, this casserole will quickly become a family favorite.
A Keto-Friendly Philly Cheesesteak Experience
Traditional Philly cheesesteaks are delicious, but they are loaded with carbohydrates. This casserole reimagines the classic by eliminating the bread and focusing on the flavorful combination of steak, peppers, onions, and melted cheese. The result is a hearty and satisfying meal that won’t kick you out of ketosis.
Why This Recipe Works
- Speed: Assembling this casserole is incredibly quick, especially if you use pre-sliced steak or veggies.
- Convenience: It’s a one-dish meal, minimizing cleanup after a long day.
- Customizable: Easily adjust the ingredients to your liking, adding different vegetables or cheeses.
- Keto-Friendly: A perfect way to enjoy a comforting meal while staying on track with your low-carb goals.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to create this low-carb masterpiece:
- 1 lb Thinly Sliced Steak (Ribeye or Sirloin)
- 1 Medium Onion, sliced
- 1 Green Bell Pepper, sliced
- 1 Red Bell Pepper, sliced (optional)
- 4 oz Sliced Mushrooms (optional)
- 8 oz Cream Cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup Mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Onion Powder
- Salt and Pepper to taste
- 8 oz Shredded Provolone Cheese (or Mozzarella)
- Optional: Pickled Jalapeños for extra kick
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, cook the sliced steak over medium-high heat until browned. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté the sliced onion, bell peppers, and mushrooms (if using) until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
- In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Add the cooked steak and sautéed vegetables to the cream cheese mixture. Stir to combine.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Top with shredded provolone cheese.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let cool slightly before serving. Top with pickled jalapeños if desired.
Tips and Variations
Make it Spicy
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cream cheese mixture or top with sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Cheese Variations
Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack, Monterey Jack, or even a sharp cheddar for a unique flavor profile.
Add More Veggies
Feel free to add other low-carb vegetables such as zucchini, cauliflower rice, or broccoli to the casserole.
Meal Prep Friendly
This casserole is perfect for meal prepping! Assemble it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake. It also reheats well, making it a great option for leftovers.
Nutritional Information
The nutritional information will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. However, a serving of this casserole is generally low in carbohydrates, high in fat, and moderate in protein, making it ideal for a ketogenic diet. Always use a nutrition calculator with your specific ingredients for accurate macro counting.
Conclusion
This low-carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is a game-changer for busy weeknights. It’s a flavorful, satisfying, and keto-friendly meal that the whole family will love. With its quick preparation and minimal cleanup, it’s the perfect solution for those who want to enjoy a delicious dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. Say goodbye to unhealthy takeout and hello to this amazing keto casserole!
