7 Reasons Why This Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Skillet is the Best Keto Dinner

Posted on June 24, 2025 · [post_author]

low carb keto cheesesteak skillet using ground beef in a casserole dish

If you’re following a low-carb or keto diet and are craving the savory, comforting flavors of a Philly cheesesteak, look no further than this Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Skillet. This easy-to-make, one-pan dinner combines all the bold flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak—tender ground beef, melted cheese, and sautéed vegetables—without the carbs from bread or traditional fillings. It’s the perfect dish for anyone looking for a savory keto meal that’s both satisfying and flavorful.

This recipe is quick to prepare, healthy, and customizable, making it a go-to dinner option for busy weeknights or meal prep. Whether you’re looking for a keto dinner or an easy ground beef recipe, this cheesesteak skillet hits the mark. It’s hearty, packed with protein, and full of the rich, comforting flavors you love.

Why You’ll Love This Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Skillet Recipe

This Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Skillet has everything you want in a delicious dinner, and here’s why:

  • Easy to make: This recipe is simple to put together with minimal ingredients, making it a perfect weeknight dinner. Plus, it’s cooked in one skillet, so cleanup is a breeze.
  • Perfect for keto: Without the bread, this cheesesteak skillet is ideal for anyone following a low-carb or keto lifestyle. It’s high in healthy fats and protein, while keeping the carbs low.
  • Quick and satisfying: In just 30 minutes, you can enjoy a filling, low-carb meal that keeps you satisfied for hours.
  • Customizable: You can add extra veggies, like mushrooms or bell peppers, or swap in different cuts of beef to suit your preferences.
  • Healthy and hearty: Packed with ground beef, cheese, and vegetables, this dish provides a great balance of nutrients while being low in carbohydrates.

For more easy keto meals with ground beef or healthy beef lunch ideas, check out some of our other delicious recipes!

Ingredients for Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Skillet

Making this savory keto meal requires just a few simple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to make the Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Skillet:

For the Skillet:

  • 1 lb ground beef (you can also use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version)
  • 1 medium onion, sliced thinly
  • 1 bell pepper, sliced (use any color, or mix it up for more variety)
  • 1/2 cup mushrooms, sliced (optional, but they add great flavor)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (optional, for added flavor)

For the Cheese Sauce:

  • 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded provolone cheese (or a mix of provolone and mozzarella)
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

These ingredients combine for a rich, creamy, and filling dinner that’s full of flavor but without the carbs.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making the Skillet Dinner

To make this delicious low carb Philly cheesesteak skillet, you’ll need the following tools:

  • Large skillet (to cook the ground beef and sauté the vegetables)
  • Wooden spoon or spatula (for stirring the beef and veggies)
  • Measuring cups and spoons (for accurate measurements of ingredients)
  • Knife and cutting board (for slicing the vegetables and mushrooms)
  • Small bowl (to mix the cheese sauce ingredients)

These tools will help you prepare the dish quickly and efficiently, with minimal mess.

How to Make Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Skillet (Step-by-Step)

Making this Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Skillet is easy and quick! Follow these simple steps to create this delicious dish:

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon or spatula. Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked through, about 6-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat, if necessary.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the onion, bell pepper, and mushrooms (if using) to the skillet. Drizzle the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the vegetables and cook for about 5-7 minutes, until they are softened and fragrant. Stir occasionally to prevent burning and ensure the veggies cook evenly.

Step 3: Add Seasonings

Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir the mixture to evenly coat the beef and vegetables with the seasonings. Cook for another minute to let the flavors combine.

Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a small bowl, combine the cream cheese, heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder. Stir until the cream cheese is fully softened and the mixture is smooth. Add the shredded provolone cheese to the bowl and stir until it melts and the sauce becomes thick and creamy.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Pour the cheese sauce over the beef and vegetable mixture in the skillet. Stir well to combine the cheese sauce with the beef and veggies, making sure everything is evenly coated. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and the flavors to meld together.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once the cheese sauce is creamy and the beef is fully coated, your Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Skillet is ready to serve! Garnish with extra cheese, fresh parsley, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little heat. Serve immediately, either as is or with a side of low-carb vegetables or a simple salad.

Why This Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Skillet Is Perfect for Keto Dieters

This low carb Philly cheesesteak skillet is ideal for those following a keto or low-carb diet because it’s made without bread, and the main ingredients are high in protein and healthy fats. Here’s why it works for keto:

  • Ground beef: Provides a great source of protein and fat, which are essential for maintaining a ketogenic lifestyle.
  • Cream cheese and heavy cream: These ingredients add richness and healthy fats without adding unnecessary carbs.
  • Vegetables: The bell pepper, onion, and mushrooms add flavor and texture while keeping the dish light and healthy.
  • Cheese: Provolone and mozzarella cheese offer a creamy texture that complements the savory beef and vegetables, making the dish more filling.

For a savory keto meal that satisfies your cheesesteak cravings without the carbs, this recipe hits the spot every time.

Creative Variations for Your Philly Cheesesteak Skillet

While this Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Skillet recipe is already delicious, you can customize it to suit your tastes:

  • Add extra veggies: Try adding zucchini, spinach, or even cauliflower to the skillet for more veggies and texture.
  • Use different meats: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
  • Make it spicy: Add jalapeños, chili flakes, or a dash of hot sauce to give your skillet some extra heat.
  • Use different cheeses: If you prefer a different flavor, you can swap the provolone for cheddar, Swiss, or gruyère for a unique twist.

These variations allow you to tailor the Philly cheesesteak skillet to your tastes while keeping it keto-friendly.

How to Serve Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Skillet

This savory keto meal is hearty enough to be served as a main course, but here are some great pairing ideas:

  • Low carb bread: For those missing bread, serve the skillet with low-carb rolls or cloud bread.
  • Side salad: A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can help balance the richness of the cheesesteak.
  • Roasted vegetables: Serve the skillet with a side of roasted broccoli, cauliflower rice, or zucchini noodles for a well-rounded meal.

For more healthy easy beef recipes, consider pairing your Philly cheesesteak skillet with low carb side dishes to create a full meal.

Why Ground Beef is the Perfect Protein for Keto Meals

Ground beef is a staple in many keto meals because it’s rich in protein and healthy fats. It’s versatile, affordable, and can be used in a variety of dishes from burgers to stir-fries. Here’s why it’s perfect for low-carb recipes:

  • Protein: Essential for building muscle and repairing tissues, ground beef is a great source of high-quality protein.
  • Healthy fats: Ground beef is rich in healthy fats, which are important for maintaining energy on a low-carb or keto diet.
  • B vitamins: Ground beef is a great source of B vitamins, including B12, which is vital for energy production and overall health.

By incorporating ground beef into your meals, you’re getting all the essential nutrients you need while keeping the carbs low.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making the Skillet Dinner

To ensure your Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Skillet turns out perfectly, here are some common mistakes to avoid:

  • Overcooking the beef: Overcooked beef can become dry and tough. Be sure to cook it until it’s browned but still juicy.
  • Not adjusting the seasoning: Don’t be afraid to adjust the salt, pepper, and spices to taste. A pinch of extra salt or garlic powder can make a huge difference.
  • Not letting the sauce thicken: If your cheese sauce is too thin, let it simmer for a few extra minutes to thicken up and coat the beef and vegetables properly.

By following these tips, you’ll ensure your Philly cheesesteak skillet is flavorful and satisfying every time.

The Health Benefits of Eating Keto with Ground Beef

Ground beef is not only tasty, but it also provides numerous health benefits, especially when incorporated into a low carb or keto diet. Here are some of the nutritional benefits of ground beef:

  • Rich in protein: Ground beef is packed with protein, which is essential for muscle building and repair.
  • High in iron: Beef is a great source of heme iron, which is easier for the body to absorb than plant-based iron.
  • Supports energy: The healthy fats in ground beef help maintain energy levels and support ketosis on a keto diet.

By incorporating ground beef into your keto meals with ground beef, you can enjoy a flavorful and balanced meal that supports your dietary goals.

FAQs About Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Skillet Recipe

Can I make this in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the beef and vegetables ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to eat, simply make the cheese sauce and combine everything in a skillet.

Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or another protein like tofu for a vegetarian version of this dish.

Can I make this in a crockpot?
While this recipe is designed for the stovetop, you can make a crockpot version by adding all the ingredients to the slow cooker and cooking on low for 6-8 hours. Add the cheese sauce near the end of cooking.

Final Thoughts: A Quick, Hearty, and Healthy Meal for Any Night

This Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Skillet is a simple, savory keto meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. It’s packed with protein, healthy fats, and flavorful ingredients, making it the ideal choice for anyone following a keto or low-carb diet. Whether you’re craving a Philly cheesesteak or just looking for an easy beef recipe, this skillet dish delivers big on flavor without the carbs.

Try this recipe today and share it with friends and family. Don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more easy keto meals with ground beef, healthy beef lunch ideas, and other delicious low-carb recipes!

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Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Skillet: A Quick and Savory Keto Meal


  • Author: Lyndy
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

This Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Skillet delivers the bold flavors of a classic cheesesteak—tender beef, sautéed onions and peppers, and melted cheese—all in a keto-friendly, one-pan meal. Quick, satisfying, and low in carbs, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or healthy meal prep.


Ingredients

Scale

1 lb ground beef (or thinly sliced steak) 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 medium onion, thinly sliced 1 large bell pepper, thinly sliced 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning Salt and pepper, to taste 1 ½ cups shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese 1 tablespoon soy sauce or coconut aminos (optional)


Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef or sliced steak and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat. 2. Add the sliced onion and bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté for 5 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute. 3. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and soy sauce or coconut aminos if using. Stir well to combine. 4. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the mixture. Cover with a lid and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. 5. Remove from heat and serve hot as-is or over cauliflower rice.

Notes

Use lean beef (90%+) for a healthier result. Add vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for more nutrition. For a spicy version, stir in crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. Use high-quality cheese for the best flavor and melt.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Skillet
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 420
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 710mg
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 7g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 27g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Skillet, Keto Ground Beef Recipe, Savory Keto Meal, Low Carb Dinner, Healthy Beef Lunch

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