Introduction
Craving the classic flavors of a Philly Cheesesteak but trying to stick to your low-carb or keto diet? Look no further! This Low Carb Keto Philly Cheesesteak Casserole with Cheese Whiz is the perfect solution. It delivers all the satisfying taste and texture of the iconic sandwich, without the guilt of excess carbs. We’ve taken the traditional elements – thinly sliced steak, savory onions and peppers, and that irresistible cheese whiz – and transformed them into an easy-to-make, comforting casserole. Get ready to indulge in a keto-friendly version of this beloved comfort food!
Making Your Keto Philly Cheesesteak Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1.5 lbs thinly sliced steak (ribeye or sirloin work well)
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 oz shredded mozzarella cheese
- Optional: Pickled jalapeños for added 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 and cooked through. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté the sliced onion and green pepper until softened and slightly caramelized. This will add depth of flavor to your casserole.
- In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, heavy cream, yellow mustard, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix until smooth and creamy. This will form the base of your “cheese whiz”. Adjust seasonings to taste.
- Add the cooked steak, onions, and peppers to the cheese mixture and stir well to combine.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Top evenly with the shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown.
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Optional: Top with pickled jalapeños for extra flavor!
Tips and Variations
- Meat Choices: While ribeye and sirloin are excellent choices, you can also use shaved steak or even ground beef for a more budget-friendly option. Just be sure to drain any excess grease.
- Cheese Whiz Alternative: If you’re strictly keto, you can substitute the homemade cheese whiz mixture with a keto-friendly cheese sauce recipe or even just melted cheddar cheese.
- Vegetable Additions: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms or poblano peppers to the casserole.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese mixture for a spicier kick.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve this casserole as a main course with a side salad or roasted vegetables. You can also scoop it onto low-carb bread or lettuce wraps for a more traditional Philly Cheesesteak experience.
Conclusion
This Low Carb Keto Philly Cheesesteak Casserole with Cheese Whiz is a delicious and satisfying way to enjoy a classic comfort food while staying true to your dietary goals. It’s easy to make, customizable, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned keto dieter or simply looking for a healthier alternative to the traditional Philly Cheesesteak, this casserole is sure to become a new family favorite. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to indulge in a guilt-free taste of Philly!