A Brief History of the Philly Cheesesteak
The Philly cheesesteak originated in Philadelphia in the 1930s, created by Pat Olivieri, a hot dog vendor who decided to grill some beef and put it on an Italian roll. It quickly gained popularity, especially after adding melted cheese. Over time, this iconic sandwich has inspired many creative variations, including casseroles, pizzas, and even low-carb adaptations. The casserole version captures all the rich flavors of the original but skips the bread, making it perfect for keto and low-carb lifestyles.


Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole – Easy & Delicious Homemade Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This low carb Philly cheesesteak casserole is hearty, cheesy, and packed with savory flavor. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner, game-day spread, or meal prep, this recipe combines tender beef, peppers, onions, and gooey melted cheese into one comforting dish. It’s a high-protein, keto-friendly, and gluten-free recipe that lets you enjoy the beloved flavors of a cheesesteak without the carbs.
Ingredients
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1 ½ lbs ground beef (or shaved steak)
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1 green bell pepper, diced
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1 red bell pepper, diced
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1 medium onion, chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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8 oz cream cheese, softened
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1 cup shredded provolone cheese
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1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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½ tsp salt
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½ tsp black pepper
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½ tsp smoked paprika
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1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté onions, peppers, and garlic until soft.
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Add ground beef and season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook until browned.
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Stir in cream cheese until melted and combined.
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Transfer mixture to a greased casserole dish.
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Top with provolone and mozzarella cheese.
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Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and golden.
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Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot.
Notes
Swap ground beef with thinly sliced steak for a more authentic taste
Add mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition
Use different cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for a twist
FAQ – Common Questions
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Store it covered in the fridge, then bake just before serving.
2. What’s the best cheese to use for Philly cheesesteak casserole?
Provolone and mozzarella are classic choices, but feel free to mix in cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a little cream cheese for extra creaminess.
3. Is this casserole keto-friendly?
Absolutely. With high protein, low carbs, and plenty of healthy fats from the cheese and beef, this dish fits perfectly into a keto or low-carb meal plan.