Craving the iconic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak while staying committed to your keto lifestyle? Look no further than this Keto Philly Cheesesteak Casserole—a mouthwatering twist on the classic sandwich, reimagined as a hearty, low-carb dinner.
Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, this easy keto casserole layers tender slices of seasoned beef, caramelized peppers and onions, and a blanket of melted cheese for a dish that’s as indulgent as it is nutritious. Packed with high-quality protein, healthy fats, and zero guilt, the ultimate keto comfort food that satisfies even the pickiest eaters.
Whether you’re new to keto or a seasoned pro, this keto dinner recipe proves that cutting carbs doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor. The savory blend of garlic, paprika, and Worcestershire sauce elevates every bite, while gooey provolone (or your favorite keto-friendly cheese) ties it together.
And if you love reinventing comfort food classics, try my Cheeseburger Casserole, Buffalo Chicken Casserole, and yes—even a Keto Big Mac Casserole for a fun, family-friendly twist. Say goodbye to boring meals and hello to a low-carb casserole that’s guaranteed to become a weeknight staple!
Unique Ingredients for Keto Philly Cheesesteak Casserole
Elevate your keto casserole game with these thoughtfully chosen ingredients, designed to layer bold flavors and creamy textures while keeping carbs in check. Here’s what you’ll need:
Extra-virgin olive oil – A drizzle of this golden oil ensures your veggies caramelize perfectly without sticking, a subtle fruity richness.
Grass-fed ground beef (1.5 pounds) – Opt for lean yet juicy beef to mimic the classic Philly cheesesteak texture, while staying rich in keto-friendly fats.
Tri-color bell peppers, thinly sliced – A vibrant mix of red, green, and yellow peppers for sweetness, color, and a dose of antioxidants.
Yellow onion, finely chopped : Slow-cooked until golden to bring out its natural sweetness, balancing the savory beef.
Smoked paprika (1 tsp) : Adds a deep, smoky kick that nods to the chargrilled flavor of traditional cheesesteaks.
Artisanal Italian seasoning blend (1 tsp) – A fragrant mix of oregano, basil, and thyme for herbaceous depth.
Roasted garlic powder (½ tsp) : Intensifies the savory profile with a caramelized, nutty undertone.
Full-fat cream cheese (4 oz, softened) : Melts into a velvety base, binding the casserole while keeping it luxuriously creamy and keto-approved.
Sharp Provolone cheese (1 cup, shredded) : Delivers that iconic Philly cheesesteak “cheese pull” with a bold, tangy finish.
Coarse sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper : Enhances every layer without overpowering the dish.
Step-by-Step Directions for Keto Philly Cheesesteak Casserole
Transform classic flavors into a crave-worthy low-carb casserole with these easy, foolproof steps. Perfect for keto meal prep or a fuss-free family dinner!
Preheat & Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish or deep oven-safe skillet.
In a large skillet, heat 1-2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.
Sauté the Aromatics
Add the chopped yellow onion to the skillet. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and lightly golden, stirring occasionally.
Toss in the sliced tri-color bell peppers and cook for another 2-3 minutes until just tender-crisp.
Brown the Beef
Push the veggies to the edges of the skillet. Add the grass-fed ground beef to the center, breaking it into small crumbles with a spatula. Cook until no pink remains, about 5-6 minutes.
Creamy Base & Seasoning
Reduce heat to low. Add the softened cream cheese to the skillet, stirring until it melts into the beef and veggie mixture.
Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, artisanal Italian seasoning, roasted garlic powder, sea salt, and black pepper. Stir vigorously to coat everything in the spices and creamy cheese.
Layer & Cheese It Up
Transfer the mixture to your prepared casserole dish (or keep it in the oven-safe skillet for fewer dishes!). Smooth the top with a spatula.
Arrange shredded sharp Provolone cheese evenly over the surface, creating a thick, gooey layer. For extra flair, add a few sliced Provolone pieces on top.
Bake to Perfection
Bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and develops golden-brown speckles.
Rest & Serve
Let the casserole cool for 8-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the layers to set. Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of paprika if desired.
Storage Instructions:
To keep your Keto Philly Cheesesteak Casserole fresh and flavorful, let it cool completely before transferring leftovers to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days for optimal taste and texture. When reheating, warm individual portions in the microwave (covered) for 1-2 minutes, or revive the entire dish in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes until the cheese regains its gooey appeal. For best results, sprinkle a splash of water over the casserole before reheating to prevent drying out. Avoid leaving it at room temperature for extended periods to maintain food safety. This easy keto dinner stays just as delicious the next day—ideal for hassle-free low-carb meal prep!
Tips for Achieving Maximum Flavor
Unlock the full potential of your Keto Philly Cheesesteak Casserole by layering bold, savory elements. Start by caramelizing the onions and bell peppers until golden—this deepens their natural sweetness and adds a rich base. For an extra smoky kick, toast the smoked paprika in the skillet for 30 seconds before adding the beef, amplifying its earthy aroma. Opt for grass-fed ground beef and let it develop a crispy sear for added texture, then deglaze the pan with a splash of beef broth to incorporate those flavorful browned bits. Use full-fat cream cheese at room temperature to ensure it melts seamlessly into the mixture, creating a velvety base, and finish with sharp Provolone for a tangy, melty crown. Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes post-bake—this allows the flavors to meld and ensures every bite is as indulgent as the last!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I substitute the ground beef with another protein?
A: Absolutely! For a twist, try ground turkey, chicken, or even thinly sliced ribeye steak to mimic a traditional Philly cheesesteak. Just adjust cooking times as needed to avoid drying out leaner meats.
Q: Is there a dairy-free alternative for the cream cheese and Provolone?
A: Yes! Use cashew cream or dairy-free cream cheese for the base, and top with vegan mozzarella shreds. Ensure all substitutes are low-carb to keep the dish keto-friendly.
Q: How do I prevent the casserole from becoming too watery?
A: Pat dry your bell peppers and onions after slicing, and avoid overcrowding the skillet when sautéing. Letting the casserole rest before serving also helps excess moisture settle.
Q: Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
A: Of course! Mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini make great additions. Just sauté them with the peppers and onions, and adjust seasoning to balance flavors.
Q: Why is smoked paprika recommended over regular paprika?
A: Smoked paprika adds a charred, robust depth that mimics the grilled flavor of a classic Philly cheesesteak. Regular paprika works in a pinch but lacks that smoky complexity.
Q: How can I boost the protein content without adding carbs?
A: Stir in crumbled bacon or mix in a scoop of unflavored collagen peptides during the cream cheese step—both add protein without altering the dish’s low-carb profile.
Q: What’s the best way to reheat leftovers without drying them out?
A: Cover the casserole with foil and warm in a 325°F oven for 10-15 minutes, or microwave individual portions with a damp paper towel over the top to lock in moisture.
Q: Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes! Assemble the dish (without baking) up to a day in advance. Store it covered in the fridge, then bake as directed—just add 2-3 extra minutes to the cooking time.
Q: Is this recipe kid-friendly?
A: Absolutely! The cheesy, savory flavors are a hit with picky eaters. For milder palates, reduce the smoked paprika or swap it for a pinch of sweet paprika.
Q: How do I know when the casserole is fully cooked?
A: The dish is ready when the cheese is golden and bubbly, and the edges are lightly crisped. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the beef reaches 160°F internally.