Introduction
Craving a Philly Cheesesteak but sticking to a low-carb or keto lifestyle? Look no further! This Low Carb Keto Philly Cheesesteak Casserole with Caramelized Onions delivers all the delicious flavors of the classic sandwich without the guilt. Imagine tender steak, gooey cheese, and sweet, savory caramelized onions all baked into a comforting and satisfying casserole. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish at your next gathering. Get ready to experience a taste sensation that will quickly become a family favorite! It’s so easy to make and customize, you’ll be enjoying this keto-friendly comfort food in no time.
The Magic of Keto Philly Cheesesteak Casserole
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe cleverly replaces the traditional bread roll with a cheesy base and focuses on high-fat, low-carb ingredients. The caramelized onions add a touch of sweetness that balances the richness of the steak and cheese. The beauty of this casserole lies in its simplicity and adaptability. Itβs easily customizable to your preferred tastes and dietary needs.
Key Ingredients for Keto Success
- Steak: Thinly sliced ribeye or sirloin are excellent choices for a tender and flavorful result. Shaved steak from the deli section works great too.
- Cheese: Provolone is the classic choice, but feel free to experiment with cheddar, mozzarella, or even a blend.
- Onions: Yellow onions are best for caramelizing, but white onions will also work in a pinch.
- Peppers (Optional): Bell peppers (green, red, or yellow) add color, flavor, and nutrients.
- Cream Cheese: This ingredient helps create a creamy and rich base for the casserole.
- Cauliflower Rice (Optional): If you prefer a little more “bulk”, you can add some cooked cauliflower rice to the base of the casserole.
How to Make Low Carb Keto Philly Cheesesteak Casserole
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Caramelize the Onions: Thinly slice the onions and cook them over low heat in a skillet with butter or olive oil until they are golden brown and sweet, about 30-45 minutes. Patience is key!
- Cook the Steak: In the same skillet, cook the thinly sliced steak until browned. Season with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices (garlic powder, onion powder, paprika). If using bell peppers, saute them with the steak.
- Prepare the Cheese Base: In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese with shredded cheese of your choice. You can add a little heavy cream to make it even creamier.
- Assemble the Casserole: Spread the cheese mixture in the bottom of a greased baking dish. Top with the cooked steak and caramelized onions (and peppers if using).
- Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 375Β°F (190Β°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Broil (Optional): For an extra golden and bubbly top, broil for a minute or two, watching carefully to prevent burning.
Tips & Variations
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the steak for a little heat.
- Mushroom Love: Add sautΓ©ed mushrooms to the steak and onion mixture.
- Cheesy Goodness: Use a combination of different cheeses for a more complex flavor profile.
- Creamy Base: Add a splash of heavy cream or sour cream to the cheese mixture for extra richness.
- Make it Ahead: Assemble the casserole ahead of time and bake when ready to serve.
Nutritional Information
This recipe is naturally low in carbohydrates and high in fat, making it ideal for a keto diet. The exact nutritional information will vary depending on the specific ingredients used, but a serving will generally contain:
- Net Carbs: Typically under 5g per serving
- Fat: High fat content
- Protein: Moderate protein content
Use a macro tracking app to get a more precise calculation based on the specific ingredients you use.
Conclusion
This Low Carb Keto Philly Cheesesteak Casserole with Caramelized Onions is a delicious and satisfying way to enjoy the flavors of a classic comfort food while staying true to your low-carb or keto goals. It’s easy to make, customizable, and perfect for any occasion. So, ditch the bread and indulge in this cheesy, meaty, and flavorful casserole. Your taste buds will thank you!