Introducing My Cheesy Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole!
Hey there! If you’re like me and love cozy comfort food but want to keep it healthy, you’re in for a treat! This Cheesy Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is my go-to dish when I want something hearty, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying without all those extra carbs. Plus, it’s super easy to make! Trust me; once you take that first bite, you’ll want to make it week after week!
Nutritional Benefits
This casserole is not just tasty; it’s also packed with nutrition! By swapping traditional pasta for cauliflower, you’re not only lowering the carbs but also adding a wealth of vitamins and minerals. Cauliflower is high in fiber, which is great for digestion, and it’s a fantastic source of vitamins C and K. Plus, the ground beef adds protein, which helps keep you full and satisfied. It really is a win-win!
Adaptable Variations
- Vegetarian Option: If you’re looking to ditch the meat, just swap the ground beef with a plant-based crumble or more veggies. Zucchini or spinach work great!
- Cheese Choices: Feel free to mix and match your cheeses! Monterey Jack or provolone can add a unique twist if you’re looking to change things up.
- Add Some Heat: For those who like a little spice, mix in some diced jalapeños or sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes on top before baking!
Easy Recipe for Cheesy Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
- 2 cups cauliflower florets (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- Fresh tomatoes, diced (for garnish)
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- First things first—preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or something similar.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef, cooking it until it’s browned. Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and sliced mushrooms. Cook everything together until the veggies are tender, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Now, season your mixture with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Let it cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring often.
- While the beef and veggies are cooking, steam or microwave your cauliflower florets until they’re nice and tender, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Once cooked, give them a rough mash.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the beef and veggie mixture with the mashed cauliflower, softened cream cheese, and beef broth. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed.
- Now, spread this delicious mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish.
- Time to get cheesy! Top the casserole with mozzarella and cheddar cheese, layering generously.
- Pop it in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Yum!
- Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. Then, garnish with diced fresh tomatoes and chopped parsley or cilantro to add a burst of color and freshness.
- Dig in while it’s warm and enjoy every cheesy, comforting bite!
Practical Tips
- After baking, if you want a nice crust on top, feel free to broil it for just a couple of minutes—watch it closely so it doesn’t burn!
- For leftovers, store in an airtight container in the fridge. It should be good for about 3-4 days, and it’s even tastier the next day!
- If it’s too thick when reheating, a splash of beef broth or even a little bit of water will help loosen it up.
Equipment Needed
Here are some handy tools that will make cooking this casserole a breeze:
- A large skillet for browning meat and cooking the veggies.
- A 9×9-inch baking dish (or similar) to hold your delicious casserole.
- A mixing bowl to combine all your glorious ingredients.
- A potato masher or fork for mashing the cauliflower.
- A spatula for serving this cheesy goodness!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use ground turkey instead of beef? Yes, ground turkey can be a great leaner substitute for this recipe!
- Is this casserole freezer-friendly? Absolutely! You can freeze it after baking. Just make sure to let it cool completely and store it in an airtight container or freezer bag.
- What if I don’t like cauliflower? You can replace it with riced cauliflower for a different texture or even use shredded zucchini as an alternative!
- How can I make it spicier? Add some hot sauce to the meat mixture or top with jalapeños before baking!
- Can this be made ahead of time? Yes! Prep it the night before and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
Wrap-Up
I really hope you give this Cheesy Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole a try! It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or even meal prep for the week ahead. I’d love to hear how yours turns out! Don’t forget to share your creations with me on Pinterest for more yummy recipes and fun cooking ideas. Happy cooking!
