Description
A cheesy, savory low-carb casserole that delivers the classic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak with tender ground beef, sautéed onions and bell peppers, and layers of melted provolone and mozzarella cheese. This comforting dish is perfect for those looking to enjoy hearty comfort food while keeping carbs in check.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 fat ratio preferred)
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 2 large bell peppers, diced (green, red, or mixed)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature, full-fat preferred
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (Lea & Perrins recommended)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 8 oz provolone cheese, sliced and torn into smaller pieces
- 1½ cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 tbsp olive oil, for cooking
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 baking dish with non-stick spray. This ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and bell peppers, cooking for 5-6 minutes until they soften and become fragrant. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
- Cook Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it up with a spatula and season generously with salt and pepper. Cook for 7-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is fully browned and no pink remains. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add Flavorings and Cream Cheese: Stir in Worcestershire sauce, coating the meat mixture evenly. Reduce heat to low, then add the softened cream cheese. Stir until the cream cheese is fully melted and the mixture becomes creamy and well combined.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the beef and vegetable mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Layer the torn provolone cheese pieces over the top, then sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top for that perfect melting effect.
- Bake: Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 22-25 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden on top. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Notes
- Use 80/20 ground beef for optimal juiciness and flavor without excessive greasiness.
- Yellow onions provide a sweet flavor, but you can use white or red if preferred.
- Mixing bell pepper colors adds appealing color and flavor complexity.
- Softening cream cheese to room temperature ensures it melts more smoothly into the meat mixture.
- For reheating leftovers, use oven at 325°F until warmed through or microwave with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
- Try adding mushrooms, different cheeses, or jalapeños for a flavor twist.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container refrigerated up to 4 days or freeze portions for up to 3 months.
- Pair with low-carb side dishes like crispy broccoli cheese rounds, mixed greens salad, roasted Brussels sprouts, garlic butter asparagus, or cauliflower rice.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Low Carb, Philly Cheesesteak, Casserole, Ground Beef, Cheese, Low Carb Dinner, Comfort Food
