When the craving for a comforting cheesesteak hits, it can feel challenging to navigate those diet-friendly options without sacrificing flavor. I discovered the ultimate solution during a week of meal planning when I decided to re-invent this classic dish using ground beef and colorful veggies. The result? A scrumptious low carb cheesesteak creation that’s not only incredibly satisfying but also fits seamlessly into a keto lifestyle.
Picture this: juicy ground beef sizzling in a hot skillet, enveloped by a medley of sweet peppers and creamy, melted cheese. It all comes together in just 30 minutes, offering a quick, hassle-free dinner that the whole family will love. This Keto Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak Skillet can be served over a bed of fresh greens or nestled in a low-carb wrap for a delightful twist. Trust me, once you experience this delightful dish, you won’t miss the bread at all!
Why You’ll Love This Low Carb Cheesesteak Ground Beef
Quick and Easy: You can whip this dish up in just 30 minutes, making it a perfect option for those busy weeknights.
Flavorful Delight: The combination of savory ground beef with colorful peppers and melty cheese creates an irresistible taste sensation, perfect for your cravings.
Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it over a bed of fresh greens or wrapped in low-carb tortillas, ensuring that everyone at the table is satisfied.
Healthy Twist: With only 3.9g net carbs per serving, this recipe is a fantastic low-carb alternative that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.
Family Favorite: Whether you’re on a keto diet or simply looking to reduce carbs, the whole family will love this hearty meal that brings classic cheesesteak flavors to the table.
Low Carb Cheesesteak Ground Beef Ingredients
For the Beef and Vegetables
• Ground Beef – Use 85% lean for flavorful results without excessive grease; ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for a lighter option.
• Sweet Peppers (red, orange, yellow) – Adds vibrant color and sweetness; total of 1 cup can be used, or opt for green peppers for a lower-carb choice.
• Green Bell Peppers – Contributes crunch and bitterness; used in 2 cups, can be replaced entirely with sweet peppers if preferred.
• Onion (yellow or white) – Essential for depth of flavor; fresh onions enhance the taste, but can be omitted if not liked.
• Mushrooms (fresh) – Offers umami and additional texture; optional for those not fond of mushrooms.
For the Cheesy Topping
• Provolone Cheese – Key for the signature cheesesteak flavor and melty texture; mozzarella or cheddar can be good substitutes.
• Gruyere or Swiss Cheese (shredded) – Adds creaminess and richness; swap with any melting cheese variant for different flavors.
For Seasoning and Cooking
• Steak Seasoning – Enhances the beef’s natural flavor; if unavailable, a blend of salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder works well.
• Olive Oil – Ideal for sautéing the vegetables; any cooking oil can be used in its place.
Feel free to indulge in this delicious low carb cheesesteak ground beef recipe, and enjoy the delightful simplicity of homemade flavor!
How to Make Low Carb Cheesesteak Ground Beef
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Brown the Beef: In a large oven-proof skillet, heat over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and season with steak seasoning. Cook until browned, about 7-10 minutes, then drain excess fat if necessary.
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Sauté Vegetables: In a separate skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sweet peppers, green bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms, sautéing until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
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Combine: Stir the sautéed vegetables into the skillet with the browned beef. Mix well to combine all the flavors.
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Add Cheese: Sprinkle provolone and gruyere or Swiss cheese over the beef and vegetable mixture, ensuring even coverage.
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Broil: Place the skillet under the broiler for about 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, watching closely to prevent burning.
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Serve: Enjoy your low carb cheesesteak ground beef as is, or over a bed of greens, or in low-carb wraps for a satisfying meal. Store any leftovers in airtight containers.
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley for an extra touch of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Low Carb Cheesesteak Ground Beef
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to let the dish cool completely before sealing it to maintain freshness.
Freezer: Freeze portions for up to 3 months. Allow the cheesesteak to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags, ensuring to label them for easy identification later.
Reheating: Thaw frozen leftovers overnight in the fridge. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to restore moisture.
Enjoyability Tip: This low carb cheesesteak ground beef reheats beautifully, maintaining its rich flavors and textures for a delightful meal anytime!
What to Serve with Keto Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak Skillet?
Picture this: a heartwarming family dinner celebrating flavors and nutrition, offering comfort without the carbs.
- Crispy Salad: A fresh, crunchy salad of mixed greens and cucumbers elevates the meal while adding a refreshing contrast to the savory cheesesteak.
- Garlic Butter Zucchini Noodles: Light, low-carb zoodles tossed in garlic butter provide a delightful twist, echoing the cheesesteak’s richness while keeping it healthy.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These crispy, caramelized sprouts add earthy notes and extra crunch, perfectly balancing the dish’s flavors and highlighting its savory goodness.
- Homemade Coleslaw: A tangy, creamy coleslaw pairs beautifully, adding a zesty kick and crunch that brightens each bite of the hearty cheesesteak.
- Cauliflower Rice: This fluffy, low-carb rice option soaks up the delicious juices and flavors of the cheesesteak, making for a satisfying base.
- Cheesy Cauliflower Bake: Rich and creamy, this dish delivers that cheesy comfort reminiscent of traditional sides while keeping things low carb.
- Refreshing Lemonade: A cool glass of fresh lemonade contrasts the meal’s savory profile, adding a hint of sweetness that complements the dish.
- Chocolate Avocado Mousse: For dessert, indulge in a silky avocado mousse, providing a sweet end to the meal that’s both delightful and keto-friendly.
Low Carb Cheesesteak Ground Beef Variations
Feel free to explore these creative twists that let you tailor this dish to your family’s taste buds!
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Ground Chicken: Swap ground beef for ground chicken to lighten the dish while still packing in the flavor.
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Vegetarian Delight: Use sautéed mushrooms or a mix of diced eggplant and zucchini for a hearty vegetarian option, brimming with flavor.
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Cheese Fusion: Experiment with different cheeses, such as pepper jack for a spicy kick or gouda for a smokier flavor—each will add a unique twist!
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Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce while cooking for an extra layer of heat that livens up the dish.
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Herbal Infusion: Enhance the flavor experience by stirring in fresh herbs like basil or oregano, giving a fragrant boost to the final dish.
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Creamy Texture: For added creaminess, mix in a dollop of cream cheese or sour cream before broiling to create an indulgently rich topping.
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Crunchy Topping: Top with crushed pork rinds or crispy onions before serving for an exciting crunch that contrasts beautifully with the melty cheese.
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BBQ Twist: Drizzle some sugar-free barbecue sauce over the mixture before adding cheese for a smoky, sweet flavor that’s a delightful deviation from traditional cheesesteak.
Expert Tips for Low Carb Cheesesteak
• Choose the Right Beef: Opt for 85% lean ground beef to achieve the perfect balance of flavor and minimal grease. Ground turkey or chicken can also work well!
• Cook Vegetables Properly: Sauté your sweet and green peppers, onions, and mushrooms until tender but not mushy, maintaining a nice texture in your low carb cheesesteak.
• Cheese Melt Tips: For that gooey, melty finish, use a combination of provolone and gruyere or Swiss cheeses, and keep an eye on the broiler to prevent burning.
• Flavor Boost: Add a dash of Worcestershire sauce or hot sauce for an extra kick. These simple enhancements elevate the flavors in your cheesesteak.
• Store Wisely: Refrigerate leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days, or freeze them for a quick reheat meal that still tastes amazing.
Make Ahead Options
These Keto Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteaks are perfect for meal prep, saving you time on busy nights! You can cook the ground beef and sauté the vegetables up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate them in separate airtight containers to maintain freshness. For even more convenience, you can prepare the cheese topping, layering it with the beef and veggies in the skillet. When you’re ready to enjoy your low-carb cheesesteak, simply broil the dish for about 5 minutes until the cheese is melty and golden. This way, you’ll have a delicious, satisfying meal with minimal effort and just as much flavor!
Low Carb Cheesesteak Ground Beef Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best ground beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! I recommend using 85% lean ground beef for the perfect balance of flavor and minimal grease. If you’re looking for a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken works beautifully, offering a similar texture while keeping the dish deliciously satisfying.
What should I do with leftovers?
After enjoying your meal, any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s essential to let the dish cool completely before sealing it; this will help maintain its freshness. If you plan to have leftovers beyond that timeframe, consider freezing portions.
Can I freeze this low carb cheesesteak dish?
Very much! To freeze, allow the low carb cheesesteak ground beef to cool fully. Then, transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags. Make sure to label them with the date and contents so they’re easily identifiable. This meal can be frozen for up to 3 months.
How should I reheat frozen leftovers?
Reheating is a breeze! Simply thaw the frozen leftovers overnight in the refrigerator. When ready to enjoy, heat them in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. You might want to add a splash of broth or water to restore some moisture, keeping the dish as succulent as the first day.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely! While this low carb cheesesteak ground beef recipe is keto-friendly, always double-check for allergens in ingredients like cheese or Worcestershire sauce if you’re cooking for someone with food sensitivities. Dairy-free options are available; just choose suitable cheese alternatives!
How do I tell if my peppers are ripe for cooking?
Look for sweet peppers that are firm and vibrant in color. If you see dark spots all over or any wrinkles, they might be past their prime. Fresh peppers should feel crisp and plump, promising the best flavor for your low carb cheesesteak!
Keto Low Carb Cheesesteak Ground Beef Skillet in 30 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large oven-proof skillet, heat over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and season with steak seasoning. Cook until browned, about 7-10 minutes, then drain excess fat if necessary.
- In a separate skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sweet peppers, green bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms, sautéing until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir the sautéed vegetables into the skillet with the browned beef. Mix well to combine all the flavors.
- Sprinkle provolone and gruyere or Swiss cheese over the beef and vegetable mixture, ensuring even coverage.
- Place the skillet under the broiler for about 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Enjoy your low carb cheesesteak ground beef as is, or over a bed of greens, or in low-carb wraps.