If you’re craving those classic Philly cheesesteak flavors but want to skip the carbs, this low carb Philly cheesesteak casserole is about to become your new go-to comfort dish. Picture all the savoriness of juicy ground beef, sweet peppers and onions, and melty cheese, swirled together in a creamy blend that’s so cozy, you’ll want seconds. Bursting with color and flavor, this hearty casserole is a weeknight hero—especially since, once fully combined, transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly for perfect layers every time.

Once fully combined, transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The brilliance of this casserole lies in its simplicity: every ingredient shines with purpose, offering a pop of flavor, a touch of creaminess, or a melted crown of cheese. Here’s how each component works together for a dish that’s as irresistible as it is easy.

Ground Beef: Select 80/20 or 85/15 for a perfect balance of juiciness and flavor without too much grease.
Onion: Diced onion brings essential sweetness and depth, reminiscent of the classic sandwich.
Bell Peppers: Use green, red, or both for a burst of color and signature Philly flavor.
Garlic: Just two cloves amp up the aroma and round out the savory notes.
Cream Cheese: This ingredient is the secret to the casserole’s creamy, luscious texture.
Worcestershire Sauce: A splash gives the filling those unmistakable umami undertones.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; taste as you go!
Provolone Cheese: Slices melt into gooey perfection with a mild, buttery taste.
Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella ensures those epic cheese pulls and golden baked tops.
Olive Oil: A tablespoon is all you need to sauté the vegetables until just right.

How to Make philly cheesesteak casserole

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Baking Dish

Start out strong by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C); this way it’s primed and ready when you are. Give your 9×13-inch casserole dish a spritz with non-stick spray—trust me, you’ll thank yourself at cleanup time, and your casserole slices will release in tidy portions later.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat that olive oil in a roomy skillet over medium heat, then toss in your diced onions and bell peppers. After 5 to 6 minutes, they’ll soften up and start to caramelize, which creates an incredible base for your casserole. Add in the garlic and let it get fragrant for 30 seconds—don’t let it go too long, or it might burn!

Step 3: Brown the Beef

Next, in goes your ground beef. Season generously with salt and pepper, then use a sturdy spatula to break up the meat as it browns, letting the beef cook through completely. This should take about 7 to 8 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s no longer pink and everything is mingling together deliciously.

Step 4: Enhance the Flavor

Pour in that Worcestershire sauce, giving the pan a good stir so it coats all the meat and veggies. This step is where the magic starts, infusing the entire mixture with an umami punch that screams Philly cheesesteak.

Step 5: Add Cream Cheese for Creaminess

Reduce the heat to low, then dollop in the cream cheese. Stir patiently until it’s completely melted and everything looks creamy and irresistibly decadent. The texture should be smooth and the filling will hold together beautifully. When you reach this moment of creamy bliss, once fully combined, transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.

Step 6: Cheese It Up!

Top your creamy beef and veggie layer with slices of provolone cheese—it’ll cover the surface like a cheesy blanket. Finish with a shower of shredded mozzarella for extra meltiness and that gorgeous baked top.

Step 7: Bake and Rest

Slide the dish into your hot oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the cheese is melty, bubbling, and just starting to turn golden. Resist the urge to dig in right away! Let it rest for 5 minutes once it’s out of the oven; this helps everything set and makes serving easier.

How to Serve philly cheesesteak casserole

Garnishes

Finish your casserole with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley, sliced green onions, or even a few pickled jalapeños for some heat. These touches add not just color but a fresh note that balances the rich, cheesy filling—plus, they make your casserole look restaurant-ready!

Side Dishes

Pile your generous slices alongside a leafy green salad (tossed in a tangy vinaigrette) to keep things light and crisp, or go classic with roasted vegetables or cauliflower rice. These simple sides soak up every bit of that savory, cheesy goodness without weighing you down.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re serving a crowd, spoon portions onto mini plates and garnish each with a little fancy drizzle of hot sauce or a dollop of sour cream. Or, try stuffing the casserole filling into hollowed-out bell peppers before baking for a fun twist—just remember once fully combined, transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly (or spoon into each pepper shell for a handheld treat!).

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any leftover casserole cool to room temperature, then transfer to airtight containers. It’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days, making lunches and quick dinners a breeze. When you’re ready to enjoy, the flavors will have deepened for an even more satisfying bite.

Freezing

Philly cheesesteak casserole freezes like a dream! Slice into portions or freeze the whole casserole tightly wrapped. Once fully combined, transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly, and let it cool completely before freezing up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

To bring your casserole back to life, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through (about 20 minutes). Individual portions can be microwaved, but oven reheating keeps the cheese nice and gooey (just how you want it).

FAQs

Can I use a different kind of meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken make lighter swaps, or go all out with thinly sliced steak tips for a traditional Philly cheesesteak flavor. Just cook until browned, then once fully combined, transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.

Is this casserole spicy?

Not by default! The base recipe is mild, but you can turn up the heat with a pinch of red pepper flakes or serve with hot sauce on the side so everyone can spice to their own taste.

Can I make this dairy-free?

While provolone, mozzarella, and cream cheese are key to that classic texture, feel free to experiment with your favorite dairy-free cheese alternatives. The creamy, cheesy goodness is all about getting that melt and flavor you love.

What’s the best way to prepare this ahead?

You can assemble the casserole up to the point of baking—just cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 20 minutes, then bake as the recipe directs. Once fully combined, transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly for best results.

Can I add mushrooms or other vegetables?

Definitely! Sauté sliced mushrooms with your onions and peppers, or fold in spinach for an extra boost of veggies. Just be sure everything is cooked and drained well so your casserole isn’t watery before you, yes, once fully combined, transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.

Final Thoughts

If you love the rich, savory flavors of a Philly cheesesteak and want all the comfort without the carbs, there’s no reason to wait—give this low carb Philly cheesesteak casserole a try. , and you’ll see just how easy and satisfying it is to bring a beloved classic to your table, any night of the week.