Quick Description
This Philly Cheesesteak Casserole brings all the savory, cheesy goodness of a classic Philly cheesesteak into a hearty casserole. With ground beef or thinly sliced ribeye, sweet caramelized onions, and bell peppers, topped with gooey melted cheese, it’s the perfect comfort food for a low-carb, keto, or protein-packed meal.
Servings & Timing
- Servings: 6–8
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
- Total Time: 40–45 minutes
Ingredients List
For the Base:
- 1 lb ground beef (85/15 recommended for flavor and tenderness) or thinly sliced ribeye for an authentic Philly taste
- 1 medium onion (yellow or sweet onion), thinly sliced
- 1–2 bell peppers (green for the classic Philly bite, or red/yellow for sweetness), thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing)
- 1 cup heavy cream (for the creamy base)
- 1 ½ cups shredded provolone cheese (or mozzarella for a milder option)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (optional, for extra flavor)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Cheese Topping:
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables and Meat
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef (or ribeye) and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. If using ribeye, cook for a few minutes until browned, then remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the sliced onions, bell peppers, and minced garlic. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until the vegetables are soft and caramelized. Add the Worcestershire sauce, if using, and season with salt and pepper. Combine with the browned meat and mix everything well.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce
Add the heavy cream to the skillet with the meat and veggies, stirring to combine. Let the mixture simmer for 2–3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the meat and veggie mixture into a greased 9×9-inch (or similar-sized) casserole dish. Top with the shredded provolone cheese, spreading it evenly over the casserole.
Step 4: Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the casserole for 20–25 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
Step 5: Add Mozzarella Topping
Once the casserole is done baking, remove from the oven and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, or until the mozzarella is fully melted and golden.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once the cheese is bubbly and melted, remove the casserole from the oven. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, if desired, and serve hot.
Additional Notes
- Low-Carb/Keto-Friendly: This casserole is naturally low in carbs, making it a perfect dish for keto or low-carb diets. You can pair it with a side of cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for extra veggies.
- Beef vs. Ribeye: Ground beef is a great option for a more budget-friendly dish, but for a truly authentic Philly cheesesteak experience, thinly sliced ribeye is the way to go.
- Cheese Options: While provolone is traditional for Philly cheesesteaks, you can use mozzarella, Swiss, or even a cheddar blend depending on your preference.
Dietary Info
- High-Protein: The combination of beef or ribeye and cheese makes this casserole protein-packed and satisfying.
- Low-Carb: Naturally low in carbs and perfect for anyone on a low-carb or keto diet.
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions
- Add Mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the onions and peppers for an added earthy flavor.
- Spicy Philly Cheesesteak: Add a few dashes of hot sauce or sprinkle in some chili flakes for a bit of heat.
- Cauliflower Rice Side: Serve with cauliflower rice or roasted veggies to keep the meal low-carb while adding extra nutrients.
Storage & Make-Ahead
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze the casserole for up to 1 month. Let it thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven.
FAQs
Q: Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative, but the flavor may be milder compared to beef or ribeye. You can enhance the flavor with additional seasoning.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it overnight. Just bake it the next day as instructed
