Keto Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

This Keto Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is my go-to when I want a classic comfort dish with all the flavor of a cheesesteak but none of the carbs. It has those rich, creamy beloved flavors of seared beef, melted cheese, sweet peppers, and onions all together in a cozy casserole. Perfect for busy nights or meal prep, I still remember how the first batch became an instant family favorite with almost no leftovers to pack away.

From the minute this went in the oven the whole house smelled like a Philly cheesesteak shop and my family started hovering in the kitchen asking when dinner would be ready. It is now a standing request on our busy weeknights.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: gives savory depth and keeps things hearty Choose at least 80 percent lean for best flavor
• Cream cheese: makes everything creamy and rich A good quality block style cream cheese melts smoothly
• Bell peppers: pack in classic cheesesteak flavor and add a little crunch Go for vibrant firm peppers Red yellow or green all add color
• Onion: brings sweetness and softens beautifully as it cooks Slice it thin for even cooking
• Italian seasoning: lifts everything up Choose a good blend with plenty of oregano basil and thyme
• Chicken bone broth: adds savory moisture Check for low sodium to avoid making things too salty
• Sea salt: enhances all the other flavors Use a flaked sea salt for best taste
• Black pepper: gives mild heat and earthiness Freshly cracked is always best
• Garlic powder: provides background warmth and savory depth Make sure it smells sharp and fresh
• Smoked paprika: boosts smokiness and rich color Opt for Spanish smoked paprika if you can
• Provolone cheese: finishes the dish with classic cheesesteak flavor Use freshly sliced for easy melting

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Oven:

Set your oven to 177 degrees Celsius Place a sturdy baking dish about eight by eleven and a half inches on the counter Wait to oil unless using glass or metal

Brown the Beef:

Heat a large skillet over medium high Toss in the ground beef Break up any big clumps with a spatula Keep cooking and stirring until the beef loses its pink color

Season the Meat:

Sprinkle the beef with sea salt and black pepper Stir well and cook until you see browned bits appear This layering of seasonings starts the flavor base

Add Veggies and Spices:

Slide in the thin sliced onion and bell peppers Over the beef Scatter in the garlic powder Italian seasoning and smoked paprika Stir so the veggies are coated with spice Keep sautéing until the veggies look just softened and glossy This draws out their sweetness without overcooking

Stir in Cream Cheese and Broth:

Pour in the chicken bone broth Drop in the cream cheese chunks Keep stirring gently until the cream cheese melts and you see a smooth creamy sauce starting to form Watch closely so the mixture does not burn or stick

Transfer to Baking Dish:

Tip the hot cheesy beef and veggie mixture into your baking dish Smooth the top with a spatula

Top with Provolone Cheese:

Lay the provolone cheese slices across the mixture Overlap slightly to cover the whole top so every bite will be melty and cheesy

Bake:

Place the dish into your waiting oven Bake until the cheese is bubbling and has a golden spot or two about ten to fifteen minutes For extra golden top place under broiler for a few minutes

Rest and Serve:

Let the dish rest on the counter five to ten minutes before cutting This keeps all the flavors and juices in place Slice and enjoy

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Cream cheese is my favorite part here It turns everything into a velvety sauce and helps satisfy those comfort food cravings My kids have started requesting extra peppers just for their color and crunch the more colorful the peppers the happier the table

Storage Tips

To store cool the casserole to room temperature before refrigerating Place leftovers in an airtight container It keeps well for up to four days When reheating warm gently in the microwave or the oven covered with foil to keep the cheese soft This casserole is also freezer friendly Prepare up to the baking step freeze then thaw and bake as needed

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to try ground turkey instead of beef for a lighter version Any white melting cheese works if you do not have provolone Try mozzarella Monterey Jack or even a little Swiss For those who love spice toss in some chopped jalapeno with the peppers

Serving Suggestions

This casserole stands alone as a full meal thanks to the protein and veggies If you want to stretch things serve with a simple green salad or roasted broccoli For a little extra Philly attitude try serving it in a lettuce wrap or spooned over cauliflower rice

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Cultural and Historical Context

Philly cheesesteaks go back to the 1930s in Philadelphia where thin sliced beef onions and cheese on a roll became iconic This casserole keeps all the core flavors but transforms it into a low carb meal that fits with keto or just anyone wanting classic comfort food without the bread

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I substitute ground beef with shaved steak?

Yes, very thinly sliced steak can be used for a more traditional texture and taste.

→ What cheese is best if I don't have provolone?

White cheddar, Colby Jack, or mozzarella are excellent alternatives that melt well and offer a creamy texture.

→ Should I pre-cook the vegetables before baking?

It's best to sauté the onions and bell peppers briefly with the beef for balanced flavor and texture.

→ How do I keep the casserole extra creamy?

Add additional cream cheese or ensure thorough mixing with broth for a richer consistency.

→ How do I achieve a golden cheese topping?

After baking, place the casserole on the oven's top rack for a few minutes to brown the provolone.