High Protein Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

High Protein Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

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Craving the comforting flavors of a Philly cheesesteak without the carbs? This High Protein Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole brings all the savory, cheesy, beefy satisfaction in a keto-friendly form. It’s the kind of dish that feels indulgent but keeps your macros in check—ideal for busy weeknights or satisfying meal prep.

Imagine a bubbling casserole packed with juicy ground beef, sautéed peppers, caramelized onions, and a creamy cheese sauce, all baked to perfection. It’s rich in protein, low in carbs, and absolutely bursting with flavor. Whether you’re cutting carbs or just love a good comfort dish, this casserole delivers every time.


Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into this hearty bake, gather your essentials to make cooking seamless:

  • 12-Inch Skillet or Saute Pan: Crucial for browning your beef and softening the onions and peppers. The larger surface ensures even cooking without steaming.
  • Mixing Bowls: Needed for combining the beef mixture with cheese and seasonings.
  • Baking Dish (9×13 inch): This is where everything comes together and bakes to bubbly, golden perfection.
  • Spatula & Wooden Spoon: For breaking up meat, stirring vegetables, and transferring the mixture without scratching your cookware.
  • Oven: The final step that melts and browns the cheese topping for irresistible texture and flavor.

With these tools in hand, you’ll have a casserole that’s not only simple to assemble but also rewarding with every bite.


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Ingredients for the High Protein Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

Every ingredient here plays a crucial role in flavor, texture, and keeping the dish low carb and protein-rich:

  • Ground Beef (90/10 or leaner): The star of the show, providing richness and high protein content while keeping fats manageable.
  • Bell Peppers (green and red): These add sweetness and crunch, mimicking the classic Philly cheesesteak mix.
  • Yellow Onion: Brings caramelized depth and aromatic flavor to the casserole.
  • Cream Cheese: This melts into the meat and veg mixture to form a creamy, rich base without needing a carb-heavy roux.
  • Heavy Cream: Enhances the velvety texture of the sauce and boosts fat for keto balance.
  • Shredded Provolone or Mozzarella: For that signature stretch and cheesiness, perfect for topping.
  • Worcestershire Sauce: Adds umami depth and a savory boost.
  • Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: These amp up the classic cheesesteak flavors.
  • Salt & Pepper: Essential seasoning to balance and lift all the other ingredients.

How To Make the High Protein Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook chopped onions and bell peppers in a bit of oil until soft and caramelized. This should take about 6-8 minutes.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Add ground beef to the skillet. Break it up with your spatula and cook until no longer pink. Drain any excess grease for a cleaner casserole.

Step 3: Blend in the Creamy Base

Reduce heat to low. Stir in cream cheese and heavy cream until fully melted and blended. Add Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly.

Step 4: Assemble in the Baking Dish

Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 baking dish. Smooth it out evenly, then top generously with shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to help everything set beautifully.


How to Serve and Store Your High Protein Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

Serve this casserole piping hot straight from the oven. For presentation and extra freshness, garnish with chopped parsley or fresh diced tomatoes. It pairs beautifully with a crisp side salad, roasted asparagus, or cauliflower rice if you’re looking to round out the meal with even more low-carb options.

Leftovers? You’re in luck. This casserole stores incredibly well. Simply let it cool completely, then cover and refrigerate for up to 4 days. For longer storage, portion into airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F or microwave until warmed through.


Frequently Asked Questions

What type of beef works best for this casserole?

Lean ground beef (90/10 or 93/7) works best for keeping the casserole rich in protein without excessive grease. You can also use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prepare the entire casserole up to the baking step, then refrigerate it. When ready to serve, just bake as directed. Add 5-10 minutes extra to account for the cold start.

Is this casserole keto-friendly?

Yes, this recipe is low in carbohydrates and high in healthy fats and protein, making it a great fit for ketogenic diets.

What cheeses can I substitute?

Provolone and mozzarella are classic, but feel free to use cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack if you want more flavor.

Can I add mushrooms or other veggies?

Definitely! Sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or even spinach can add bulk and nutrition without adding many carbs.

How do I keep the cheese from getting oily on top?

Use high-moisture cheeses like mozzarella or provolone. Avoid overbaking, and let the casserole rest a few minutes before serving to reabsorb excess oils.


Want More Low Carb Casserole Ideas?

If hearty low-carb dinners are your jam, you might love the Sloppy Joe Casserole for its bold flavor and easy prep. Or check out the creamy goodness of the Buffalo Chicken Lasagna Recipe — another comforting, low-carb bake.

For more beef-forward meals, the Delicious Beef Bowtie Pasta can be modified with low-carb pasta options. If you’re leaning toward soup, the Hearty One Pot Beef Stew gives cozy vibes with minimal carbs.

And don’t overlook the Crockpot Italian Meatball Soup — it’s filling, flavorful, and made to fuel.

Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

You can save this to your dinner or keto boards for easy access. Just click the Pin button.

If you try this Philly Cheesesteak Casserole, I’d love to hear how it went! Did you add mushrooms? Switch up the cheese? Drop a comment below.

Want even more recipes like this? Check out my daily recipe shares on Pinterest @LadyPlate.


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High Protein Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

High Protein Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole


  • Author: Julia Koch
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Description

This High Protein Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole delivers all the savory richness of a classic cheesesteak without the carbs. With tender ground beef, sautéed peppers and onions, and a creamy, cheesy base, it’s the ultimate comfort food for anyone watching their carbs or following a keto lifestyle. Perfect for make-ahead meals or a satisfying dinner that won’t spike your macros.


Ingredients

1 pound ground beef (90/10 or leaner)

1 green bell pepper, chopped

1 red bell pepper, chopped

1 yellow onion, chopped

4 ounces cream cheese

1/4 cup heavy cream

1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1 1/2 cups shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese


Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté chopped onions and bell peppers for 6-8 minutes until softened.

3. Add ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat.

4. Lower the heat and stir in cream cheese and heavy cream until smooth.

5. Add Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.

6. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.

7. Top with shredded provolone or mozzarella.

8. Bake for 20 minutes or until cheese is bubbly and golden.

9. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

For best texture, don’t skip sautéing the peppers and onions first—it enhances flavor and prevents wateriness.

If using mozzarella, mix it with a little cheddar for better melt and flavor depth.

Letting the casserole rest before serving helps it slice neatly and keeps the topping intact.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/6 of casserole
  • Calories: 390
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 410mg
  • Fat: 28g
  • Saturated Fat: 14g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 6g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 26g
  • Cholesterol: 95mg

Keywords: low carb, keto casserole, Philly cheesesteak, high protein

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