High Protein Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

I’ve made this High Protein Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole more times than I can count — and each time, I’m amazed by how satisfying and comforting it is without all the extra carbs. It’s the kind of dish that feels indulgent but actually fuels your body in the best way. Inspired by the flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak, this casserole brings together juicy ground beef, sautéed peppers, and onions, all baked under a blanket of gooey cheese. It’s rich, hearty, and totally crave-worthy.

What I love most is how it fits perfectly into my low-carb lifestyle without sacrificing any of the taste. It’s packed with protein to keep you full for hours, and it’s great for meal prepping or feeding a hungry crowd. Whether you’re watching your macros or just want a delicious no-fuss dinner, this casserole hits all the right notes.

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Why You’ll Love This High Protein Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

• It’s low in carbs but loaded with flavor. You get all the savory, cheesy goodness without the bread.
• Meal prep friendly. Make it ahead and reheat through the week for quick, protein-packed meals.
• Family-approved. Even picky eaters can’t resist the creamy, cheesy layers.
• One-dish comfort food. Minimal cleanup, maximum satisfaction.
• Perfect for keto or low-carb diets. High in healthy fats and protein, with very few carbs.

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What Kind of Beef Should I Use for This High Protein Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole?

You’ve got some flexibility here, but ground beef is my go-to. It’s quick to cook, easy to season, and blends beautifully with the creamy base and melted cheese. If you want something leaner, try ground sirloin or even ground turkey — just keep in mind that leaner meats might not be as rich and juicy. For a more traditional Philly cheesesteak texture, thinly sliced ribeye or shaved steak is also a fantastic option, though it adds a few extra steps to the prep.

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Options for Substitutions

If you need to tweak the recipe based on what’s in your fridge or pantry, here are a few solid swaps that still keep things low carb and high protein:

• Ground Turkey or Chicken – A leaner alternative to ground beef that still absorbs flavors well.
• Cauliflower Rice – Add it for extra bulk if you want more volume without upping the carbs.
• Cream Cheese Alternatives – Use Greek yogurt or a dairy-free spread if you’re cutting dairy.
• Bell Peppers – Mix up the colors (red, green, yellow) or swap with poblano for more depth.
• Cheese Variations – Try provolone, gouda, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for a little kick.
• Onions – Shallots or leeks can work if you’re out of regular onions.

These swaps won’t take away from the core comfort of the dish, and they let you customize it to your taste or dietary needs.

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Ingredients for This High Protein Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

• Ground Beef – This is the protein powerhouse of the dish. It brings that hearty, meaty flavor that makes it so satisfying and filling.
• Bell Peppers (Green and Red) – They add color, crunch, and a bit of sweetness that balances the richness of the meat and cheese.
• Onion – Essential for that classic cheesesteak flavor. It caramelizes slightly while cooking, adding a sweet and savory depth.
• Cream Cheese – Creates a velvety, rich base that binds everything together and gives the casserole its creamy texture.
• Heavy Cream – Helps to loosen the cream cheese and make a luscious, creamy sauce.
• Garlic Powder & Onion Powder – These simple seasonings elevate the flavor of the meat and veggies without overpowering the dish.
• Salt & Pepper – A must for seasoning the meat and bringing out the natural flavors in every bite.
• Shredded Provolone or Mozzarella Cheese – Melts beautifully on top and gives you that classic gooey cheesesteak finish.
• Green Onions (optional) – A fresh pop of color and mild onion flavor to top it all off before serving.

Each ingredient plays a role in building that craveable cheesesteak flavor while keeping the whole dish low in carbs and high in satisfaction.

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Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add a little oil or butter, then toss in the diced onions and bell peppers. Cook them down for about 5–7 minutes, until they’re soft and just beginning to caramelize. This builds a sweet, savory base of flavor.

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Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Push the veggies to the side of the skillet and add the ground beef. Break it up with your spatula and cook until it’s fully browned and no pink remains. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder as it cooks.

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Step 3: Stir in Cream Cheese and Cream

Once the meat is cooked, reduce the heat to low. Stir in the cream cheese and heavy cream until melted and fully combined. You should end up with a creamy, savory meat mixture that smells amazing.

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Step 4: Transfer to Casserole Dish

Pour the creamy beef and veggie mixture into a greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly so it bakes consistently.

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Step 5: Add Cheese and Bake

Sprinkle shredded provolone or mozzarella all over the top. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.

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Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Top with freshly chopped green onions if using, and serve hot. It’s rich, cheesy, and packed with flavor.

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How Long to Cook the High Protein Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

The actual bake time is pretty quick — once everything is prepped and in the casserole dish, you’ll only need about 15 to 20 minutes at 375°F (190°C). The goal is to get the cheese fully melted and slightly golden on top. If you're using a broiler-safe dish, you can pop it under the broiler for the last 2–3 minutes for extra browning.

If you're meal-prepping or making this ahead and chilling it first, just add an extra 5–10 minutes to the baking time to make sure it’s heated all the way through.

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Tips for Perfect High Protein Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

• Drain excess fat from the beef before adding the cream cheese to avoid a greasy texture.
• Soften the cream cheese before adding it in — it melts and mixes much more easily this way.
• Don’t skip the seasoning. Even with rich ingredients, proper seasoning brings the whole dish to life.
• Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting and no added fillers.
• Let it rest for 5–10 minutes after baking to help it set and make serving cleaner.
• Customize your veggies — mushrooms, jalapeños, or spinach are all great low-carb add-ins.
• Double the batch and freeze one for a quick high-protein dinner later on.

These tips ensure you get a creamy, flavorful, and well-balanced casserole every single time.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Using too much liquid. Adding extra cream or not draining the beef can make the casserole watery instead of creamy.
• Overcooking the vegetables. You want the peppers and onions tender, not mushy — they should still have a slight bite.
• Skipping the seasoning. Under-seasoned meat leads to a bland casserole. Be generous with salt, pepper, and spices.
• Not softening the cream cheese. Cold cream cheese is hard to blend and can leave lumps. Let it sit at room temp before adding.
• Using pre-shredded cheese. It often contains anti-caking agents that affect melting. Always shred your own for that perfect cheesy top.
• Overbaking. Too long in the oven can dry it out and cause the cheese to harden rather than stay melty.

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What to Serve With High Protein Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole?

Simple Side Salad

A fresh salad with leafy greens, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the casserole.

Roasted or Steamed Broccoli

Adds crunch and color while keeping it low carb. Plus, it pairs well with the cheesy flavor.

Garlic Green Beans

Sautéed green beans with garlic and olive oil make a vibrant and flavorful side dish.

Sautéed Mushrooms

Add extra umami and depth to the meal, especially if you're craving more cheesesteak vibes.

Fried or Poached Eggs

Top your serving with a runny egg for a breakfast-for-dinner twist that's high in protein.

Cauliflower Mash

Creamy, buttery mashed cauliflower is a perfect low-carb stand-in for mashed potatoes.

Dill Pickles or Pickled Veggies

They bring a zesty contrast to the richness of the casserole — a great texture and flavor pop.

Cherry Tomato Skewers

Lightly roasted or fresh cherry tomatoes add sweetness and a refreshing burst to the plate.

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Storage Instructions

This casserole stores beautifully, which makes it a dream for meal prep or leftovers.

• Refrigerator: Once cooled, store leftovers in an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: You can freeze individual portions or the whole dish (after baking). Wrap tightly or use a freezer-safe container. It’ll keep well for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Warm in the microwave for 1–2 minutes per portion, or reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–15 minutes until hot. If frozen, let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Pro tip: Add a fresh sprinkle of cheese before reheating for that just-baked taste.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – based on 6 servings)

• Calories: 410
• Protein: 30g
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 540mg
• Cholesterol: 105mg

This is a rough estimate and will vary depending on the type of meat, cheese, and cream you use — but it’s solidly high in protein and low in carbs, perfect for a filling low-carb meal.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of cheese is best for this casserole?

Provolone is the classic choice for cheesesteak flavor, but mozzarella melts beautifully too. You can also use a blend for more complexity.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble it fully, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed (adding a few extra minutes if it's cold).

Is this casserole keto-friendly?

Absolutely. It’s low in carbs and high in healthy fats and protein, making it a great fit for keto and other low-carb eating styles.

Can I add more vegetables?

Definitely. Mushrooms, spinach, or even zucchini would all work well — just be sure to sauté and remove excess moisture first.

How do I keep the casserole from being watery?

Drain the beef after browning, and avoid overloading it with high-moisture vegetables. Letting it rest after baking also helps it set.

Can I freeze individual portions?

Yes! Slice into portions, wrap individually, and store in airtight containers or freezer bags. Great for grab-and-go meals.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Use the oven for best texture (350°F for 10–15 minutes), or microwave for convenience. Add a touch of fresh cheese on top before reheating for bonus flavor.

Can I use steak slices instead of ground beef?

You can! Thinly sliced ribeye or shaved steak is more traditional and works beautifully — just cook it quickly to avoid drying it out.

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Conclusion

This High Protein Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is everything I love in a dinner: simple, comforting, and incredibly satisfying. It captures the bold, savory essence of a cheesesteak sandwich but ditches the carbs in favor of rich, melty, protein-packed goodness. Whether you're sticking to a keto plan or just want a hearty, family-friendly dinner, this casserole delivers flavor without the fuss. And the best part? It reheats like a dream, making it perfect for busy weeks or make-ahead meals.

It’s one of those recipes that never disappoints — and once you try it, I think you’ll be adding it to your regular rotation too.

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