The Ultimate High Protein Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

Ingredients for High Protein Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

• 1.5 lbs thinly sliced sirloin steak: Provides the robust protein foundation for this High Protein Philly Casserole. Essential for that authentic, meaty texture. Slice against the grain for tenderness.
• 1 large green bell pepper, thinly sliced: Adds a crisp, fresh counterpoint and classic Philly flavor. Crucial for balancing the richness. Slice thinly for quick cooking.
• 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced: Caramizes beautifully, bringing a sweet, savory depth to the casserole. A flavor base for the vegetables. Sauté until deeply golden.
• 10-12 slices provolone cheese: Delivers the classic, mild, and wonderfully gooey cheese pull. The star of any Philly cheesesteak. Use good quality deli slices.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Facilitates sautéing the vegetables and searing the steak. A healthy fat source. Use extra virgin for better flavor.
• 1/2 cup beef broth: Deglazes the pan and enriches the sauce, adding savory depth. Enhances the overall umami. Opt for low-sodium broth.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the casserole with aromatic warmth and pungent flavor. A foundational flavor builder. Don’t let it burn.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds a crucial layer of umami and tangy depth to the meat mixture. Elevates the savory profile. A little goes a long way.
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened: Creates a rich, creamy, and low-carb sauce base for the casserole. Makes the filling extra luscious. Ensure it’s fully softened.
• 1/4 cup heavy cream: Contributes to the luxurious, velvety texture of the low-carb sauce. Essential for richness without carbs. Use full-fat for best results.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors, bringing them into balance. Critical for seasoning every component properly. Season in layers.
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Adds a subtle warmth and pungent kick. Freshly ground offers superior flavor. Grind just before using.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Imparts a subtle herbaceous note, complementing the savory flavors. A classic Italian-American touch. Rub between palms to release aroma.
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: Provides a bright, fresh finish and a pop of color. A lovely garnish for serving. Add just before serving.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Creates an extra layer of bubbly, melty goodness on top. Perfect for gooey cheese pull. Use whole milk mozzarella.

How to Make High Protein Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

Prep Steak & Veggies:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté the thinly sliced onions and bell peppers until softened, then remove them and set aside. Brown the thinly sliced sirloin steak in the same skillet until no longer pink, forming a flavorful base.

Build Flavor:

Return the softened veggies to the skillet with the browned steak. Add the minced garlic, salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Stir well and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. This ensures every bite of your High Protein Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is packed with delicious flavor.

Create Cream Sauce:

Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Reduce the heat to low, then stir in the softened cream cheese and heavy cream until the sauce is smooth and beautifully emulsified.

Assemble Casserole:

Transfer the flavorful steak and sauce mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly. Arrange the 10-12 slices of provolone cheese over the top, ensuring the entire mixture is covered for a gooey layer.

Bake Provolone:

Bake the casserole in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes. The provolone cheese will become beautifully bubbly and melted, creating that iconic gooey texture for your High Protein Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole. Don’t overbake!

Finish Baking:

Remove the casserole from the oven. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the melted provolone. Return to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the mozzarella is golden brown and perfectly bubbly and irresistible.

Garnish & Serve:

Let the High Protein Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole rest for a few minutes after baking to set. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Slice and serve this comforting meal warm to enjoy.

How to Store High Protein Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

To keep your High Protein Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate promptly. It will stay delicious for 3-4 days. Don’t leave it at room temperature too long, or it won’t be safe to eat – a mistake I’ve made! Look for any unusual smells or discoloration as signs of spoilage.

For excellent meal prep, you can cook the steak and veggie mixture up to 2 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Assemble the casserole with cheese just before baking for the best texture. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

What to Serve with High Protein Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

This casserole is perfect served warm, directly from the baking dish for a comforting meal. For special occasions, portion it onto individual plates and garnish with extra fresh parsley. You can easily pair it with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette, or enjoy it alongside some toasted low-carb bread.

I love to serve this High Protein Philly Casserole with a simple side of steamed green beans or asparagus. The fresh, crisp vegetables perfectly cut through the richness of the steak and cheese, making each bite even more satisfying to enjoy.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What if I don’t have provolone cheese for this High Protein Philly Casserole?

Yes, you can substitute provolone with sliced white American cheese or even sliced Monterey Jack. I’ve found mozzarella works too, but provolone gives that classic Philly flavor. Ensure it’s sliced for even melting.

→ Can I freeze this High Protein Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole for meal prep?

While you can freeze it, I find the texture of the vegetables and cheese can change upon reheating. For best results, freeze the cooked steak and veggie mixture without cheese. Add fresh cheese just before baking.

→ How do I prevent rubbery cheese when baking my Philly Cheesesteak Casserole?

The key is not to overbake the provolone. I learned this the hard way! Stick to the recommended 20 minutes for the first bake. The provolone should be bubbly and melted, not dried out.

→ How long can I store leftover High Protein Philly Casserole in the refrigerator?

You can safely store leftover High Protein Philly Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Always check for unusual smells or discoloration before eating, as I’ve forgotten mine too long before.

→ Can I make this High Protein Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole gluten-free?

Absolutely! This High Protein Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is naturally gluten-free as written, using whole ingredients like steak, vegetables, and dairy. Just ensure any broth or Worcestershire sauce you use is certified gluten-free.