Introduction
Craving a classic Philly Cheesesteak but watching your carbs? This Low Carb Keto Philly Cheesesteak Casserole with American Cheese is the answer! It delivers all the cheesy, beefy goodness of the original without the guilt. Perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner, potlucks, or meal prep, this casserole is easy to make and sure to become a new favorite. We’ve swapped out the traditional hoagie roll for a creamy, cheesy base, resulting in a delicious and keto-friendly comfort food experience. This recipe is packed with flavor, simple ingredients, and the ultimate cheesy indulgence.
Main Sections
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Ground Beef or Thinly Sliced Steak: Choose your protein! Ground beef is budget-friendly and convenient, while thinly sliced steak offers a more authentic Philly cheesesteak texture.
- Onions & Bell Peppers: The classic Philly cheesesteak veggies. We recommend yellow onions and green bell peppers for traditional flavor, but feel free to experiment.
- American Cheese: The quintessential cheesesteak cheese. Its melty, creamy texture is perfect for this casserole. You can also use provolone for a slightly different flavor profile.
- Cream Cheese: Adds richness and creaminess to the base of the casserole.
- Beef Broth: Provides moisture and flavor. Look for a low-sodium option.
- Worcestershire Sauce: Enhances the savory, umami flavor.
- Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Salt & Pepper: Basic seasonings that bring everything together.
- Optional Toppings: Sliced mushrooms, jalapenos, or a sprinkle of fresh parsley for garnish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the Beef: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef (or steak) over medium-high heat. Drain any excess grease. If using steak, ensure it’s thinly sliced and cooked until just browned.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the sliced onions and bell peppers to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a separate bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the Casserole: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly in the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with the cooked beef, onions, and bell peppers.
- Add Cheese: Layer the American cheese slices evenly over the beef and vegetable mixture.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Garnish with your favorite toppings (optional).
Tips & Variations for the Best Keto Philly Cheesesteak Casserole
- Use a Mandoline: For even, thin slices of steak, consider using a mandoline or asking your butcher to slice it thinly for you.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little kick.
- Cheese Options: While American cheese is traditional, feel free to experiment with provolone, mozzarella, or cheddar.
- Add Mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the onions and peppers for added flavor and texture.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This casserole is perfect for meal prepping. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Ground Turkey Option: You can substitute ground turkey for ground beef for a leaner option.
Conclusion
This Low Carb Keto Philly Cheesesteak Casserole with American Cheese is a delicious and easy way to enjoy a classic comfort food without the carbs. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or anytime you’re craving something cheesy and satisfying. With customizable ingredients and simple steps, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. So ditch the bread and dive into this flavorful, keto-friendly casserole – you won’t be disappointed! Enjoy!